october 2006 - 507arw · certain sections of the airman’s manual for easy assess to information....
TRANSCRIPT
507th Air Refueling Wing - 513th Air Control GroupTinker Air Force Base, Oklahoma
October 2006Vol. 26, No. 9
Family Day
Pages 6-7
‘Flash’ Gordonmoves on
Page 12
513th reservist onAF Rugby team
Page A4
The crowd gathered around as Dewey Beene Jr., the magician, and hishelpers entertained. See Pages 6-7 for more information and photos.
On-final COMMENTARY
PAGE 2 “Readiness Is OUR Number One Priority” OCTOBER 2006
ORI is coming, are you ready?
By Col. Rodney E. Bryan
507th MSGCommander’s Column
During the past year, Air Mobility Command (AMC) madethe decision to go back to conducting Wing Operational Readi-ness Inspections (ORI). Previously, they had been conduct-ing Expeditionary Operational Readiness Inspections (EORI)in which several units were joined together, with a mixture ofUTCs (Unit Type Code), to form an Air Expeditionary Wing.As you are aware, the 507th ARW gets to participate in aWing ORI in June 2007. Having been through an EORI inMay 2005, and a Wing ORI in June 2006 as the MSG for the446th AW at McChord AFB, I want to offer my perspectiveon preparing the wing for success.
This past May I had the opportunity to participate with the507th ARW in your Operational Readiness Exercise (ORE)at Volk Field. Col. Bob Colyer had retired and I was not yetassigned to the wing; so I flew in TDY from McChord todeploy with you as the Survival Recovery Center (SRC) Di-rector. Most of the personnel working in the SRC were inex-perienced and some of that inexperience showed during thefirst day of the war. However, by the second day the SRCwas performing as a cohesive team. Even the exercise evalu-ators commented on how much the performance of SRCmembers had improved. A big factor in that improvement wasthe fact that those personnel maintained a positive attitudeand learned from their mistakes. As we gear up for our ORI,that positive attitude needs to continue.
Commanders, please stress to your unit personnel the im-portance of constantly reading and studying their Airman’sManual. AMC IG team members will ask individuals, at ran-dom, questions on subjects covered in the Airman’s Manual.They will even ask personnel to demonstrate tasks such asdrinking through the gas mask, treating a victim of nerve agentpoisoning, or performing first-aid. At McChord, we tabbedcertain sections of the Airman’s Manual for easy assess toinformation. We found that the inspectors were most impressedwith personnel who could answer their questions without look-ing in the manual. That comes through regular study of theAirman’s Manual.
The wing will be evaluated on Initial Response during theORI. During this phase evaluators will see how effectivelyour wing can deploy to perform its wartime mission. There-fore, it is crucial to do well during Initial Response to set thetone for a successful ORI. If a unit cannot get to the fight ontime, it could adversely affect the outcome. The key to doing
well during the Initial Response phase is ensuring that all per-sonnel are current on their personal deployment requirements.This includes ID Cards, Dog Tags, Emergency Data (DDForm 93), immunizations, SGLI, Leave and Earnings State-ment, Locator Card (AF Form 245), Gas Mask Fit Test, Weap-ons Qualification Card (AF Form 522), and Safety Form (AFForm 55). Also, if applicable, there are other requirementssuch as Dependent Care Certification (AF Form 357), Pre-scription Glasses and Gas Mask Spectacle Inserts, Will, andPower of Attorney. In addition, personnel must be current onrequired training such as Small Arms, NBC (Nuclear, Biologi-cal, and Chemical), Information Assurance, Self-Aid andBuddy Care, Law of Armed Conflict (LOAC), Antiterrorism/Force Protection, and Explosive Ordnance Reconnaissance(EOR). Each unit has a Unit Deployment Manager (UDM)to oversee its program, but ultimately the responsibility lieswith each member to ensure that they are deploymentready. The UDMs cannot do it alone; they need your fullsupport.
During the Employment phase the wing must demon-strate its ability not only to survive but to continue to oper-ate. ATSO training is a must for everyone participating in theORI. I strongly encourage you to take advantage of the ATSOtraining being conducted during the October UTA. As I havesaid before and will continue to foot stomp; “attitude is every-thing!” If everyone shows a positive attitude and sense ofurgency, this wing will do well. Now having said that, remem-ber that we all have to perform tasks in a safe manner be-cause safety is also paramount.
Now is the time to get serious about preparing yourselvesto be ready for the ORI. For our traditional reservists, June‘07 is only 16 days away. As I stated during my Assumptionof Command, we have a busy year ahead of us. Next month,some of us will participate in an ORE at Gulfport with the164th AW, Memphis ANG, who will be our partners in theORI. Then in Mar ‘07 we will have our ORE at Alpena orVolk Field with the 164th AW. This will be our final dressrehearsal for the Jun ‘07 ORI. Additionally, there will be on-going training to get our members prepared. We need every-body to pull together and do their part to ensure that this winghas a very successful ORI.
In a retirement article published in last month’s On-final, Tech Sgt. Ty Yoshida claimed to be the last wingmember serving to have received the Vietnam ServiceMedal and Republic of Vietnam Campaign Medal.
He was incorrect. We’ve learned there are still oth-ers in the wing who earned those medals.
Correction
“Readiness Is OUR Number One Priority”
On-final
PAGE 3OCTOBER 2006
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.
CHAPLAIN’S CORNER
507th Air Refueling Wing Editorial Staff507th ARW Commander- Col. Jeffery R. Glass
Chief 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 Spec - Senior Amn. Zach Anderson
513th Air Control Group Editorial Staff
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. - Staff Sgt. Tessa Stevens507th Aircraft Maintenance Sq.- vacant507th Medical Sq.- vacant507th Security Forces Sq.- CMSgt. David Holman465th Air Refueling Sq.- Senior Master Sgt. Scott “Scooter” Wilson507th Maintenance Group-
Master Sgt. Jeff Tyler507th Com. Flt. - Master Sgt. Norma Foster1st Aviation Standards Flt - SMSgt. Rob Uzzle35th CBCS - Staff Sgt. Damon A. Wheeler
This funded Air Force Reserve Command maga-zine is an authorized publication for membersof the U.S. military services. Contents of On-final are not necessarily theofficial views of, or endorsed by the U.S. Gov-ernment, the Department of Defense, or theDepartment of the Air Force. The editorial content is edited, prepared, andprovided by the 507th Air Refueling Wing’sPublic Affairs Office, 7435 Reserve Road, Suite9, Tinker AFB, OK., 73145-8726 All photographs are Air Force photographsunless otherwise indicated. Copy deadline isNOON on UTA Sunday for the next month’sedition. If you need more time, please callus at 734-3078. This is your news source. Take it home with youto share with family, friends, and employers.
Volume 26, No. 9 OCTOBER 2006
513th Aircraft Generation Sq. -Tech. Sgt. James Stratton
513th Ops Support Flt. - Senior Airman Raquel Lyons
970th AACS - Vacant513th Air Control Gp. -
Senior Airman Grady Epperly
Parasites CHAPLAIN’S CORNER
By Chaplain (1st. Lt.) Kelly Stahl
I don’t know about you, but I love to read little factoids.They are short little blurbs of information or articles thathave interesting tidbits in them.
I recently came across an article about different para-sites of the world. I find them interesting because we asmilitary members may find ourselves in different regionsof the world and it pays to know the indigenous ecosys-tems we are stationed in.
One of the disgusting little creatures that really stoodout in my mind is called the sacculina carcini, and luckily itonly has a taste for crab. It starts its twisted life out byswimming in the ocean and eventually finds an unknow-ing, innocent crab.
The parasite finds a weakness in the crabs “armor”and squeezes in. It eventually sends roots to every part ofthe crab’s body and grows so big it pops out the top of thecrab’s shell. The crab becomes a zombie and only doesthe bidding of the parasite and forgoes all the normal thingslittle crabs like to do, like molting, reproducing and grow-ing new appendages when one is missing. All energy andresources are diverted to the parasite. The duo remainslocked in this fashion for the rest of their lives.
Creepy, I know, but fascinating. Did you know that there
are “parasites” in our lives that want our full attention andenergy? They can be money, power, possessions, work,relationships, pleasure and really just about anything. Theystart out small and insignificant but soon take over ourlives, sometimes without us even realizing that they areconsuming us and all of our energy. Sometimes they caneven start out as good things but eventually halt any per-sonal and spiritual growth, creating a zombie-like creaturelooking to only do the bidding of the behavior.
Jesus said in Matthew 6:24, “No one can serve twomasters. Either he will hate the one and love the other, orhe will be devoted to the one and despise the other. Youcannot serve both God and money.” Jesus’ example wasabout money, but we can replace it with anything that be-gins taking over our lives. Unfortunately for our little crabfriend, once it is infected it is too late; once the menacingparasite gets in its body its life is over.
Thankfully for us, there is still hope. What is the weak-ness in your armor? What has squeezed in and is takingover? Who or what do you serve? Unlike the crab, we canalways call upon the Lord to overcome our “parasites”and He is faithful. Peace!
On-final
PAGE 4 OCTOBER 2006
On-final COMMUNICATION
“Readiness Is OUR Number One Priority”
The attributes of enhancing effective communication
By Capt. Mark Vardaro507th Wing Inspector General
Poor communication can hurt any or-ganization. In fact, of the complaints I havereceived in the IG office so far this year;nearly 94 percent of them could have beenprevented if communication breakdownsdid not occur. In a recent climate assess-ment conducted by the Chief of Staff,communication was identified as one ofthe most significant opportunities for im-provement Air Force wide. I wanted toexplore more about communication withinthe wing and asked questions to Lt. Col.Richard Curry, the 507th ARW Public Af-fairs Officer. For more than 20 years Colo-nel Curry has worked to find and distrib-ute key information to the wing and thecommunity. Here’s what I learned.
Vardaro: What is communication?Curry: Communication is a 2x4
smacking you between the eyes, a swiftkick in the pants, or a “good job” slap onthe back. It’s also a faint smile or a twinkleof the eye. Communication is both force-ful and subtle, written or verbal, a call toaction or sometimes no reaction.
Vardaro: Why is communicationimportant to supervisors?
Curry: Without effective communi-cations, how do you know your team hasdone its best? The focus of any supervi-sor is to ensure the job gets done.
Vardaro: How do you communi-cate?
Curry: Well, I am partial to usingsock puppets…. Seriously, it really de-pends on who my intended audience isand the message I’m trying to deliver.To efficiently communicate, you alsoneed to take some time to think aboutyour message and the most effectiveway to present it BEFORE you start.
Who am I addressing? Do they have anyissues or concerns that might create ob-stacles to what I’m trying to communi-cate? Also, before I try to communicatea difficult message to others, I try to role-play by reversing roles. You have to pre-tend you know nothing of the topic is-sue, review what is to be presented andthen ask yourself if you truly understandit. It’s tough to be hard on yourself, butthe harder you are, the better your mes-sage will be understood by others.
Vardaro: Who do you communi-cate to?
Curry: Anyone who’ll listen.
Vardaro: What are the signs youlook for in determining if the com-munication is understood?
Curry: When you’re trying to deter-mine whether or not you’re being un-derstood, sometimes all you have to goon is body language…does that personappear to be interested and engaged inthis conversation or do they look likethey’d rather be somewhere else?
Vardaro: What factors do you con-sider when preparing to communi-cate?
Curry: There are a lot of things tosider. Take target audience for example.What is the age group you’re address-ing? What’s their background? Are theyall military or from diverse civilian ex-periences? Are they busy managerswho would rather you be succinct andto the point or people who want to hearmore detailed illustrations. All of this isconsidered when you plan how you wishto communicate.
Vardaro: What are the most com-mon communication mistakes yousee supervisors make?
Curry: The most important part of
An Interview with Lt. Col. Rich Curry, 507th ARW Public Affairs Officercommunication is listening. To commu-nicate effectively, you also have to bean aggressive listener. Don’t assumeyou’re understood. Ask questions thatwill draw the other party into the discus-sion. Listen to what they have to sayabout the tasks being assigned. In ourbusiness that two-way feedback canmean the difference between a job suc-cessfully completed or a safety mishap.
Vardaro: How can supervisorsbetter prepare to communicate?
Curry: Become a student of com-munications techniques. Look for andstudy good communication interactions.Read. When you are watching interac-tions between people, ask yourself if allyour questions were answered.
In talking with Colonel Curry, I foundcommunications occur through several dif-ferent channels, each of which has sig-nificantly different needs and concerns.Before you communicate you must knowyour audience and customize how youpresent your message to them. A goodcommunicator “aggressively listens” toensure their intended message is received.Finally, you may have to make sacrificesto ensure a clear message is delivered andreceived as communication breakdownscan cause mission failure, safety mishaps,and lost opportunity.
In November, the Human ResourcesDevelopment Council will be sponsor-ing a 2-hour workshop entitled “Enhanc-ing Effective Communications withinYour Workcenter.” The workshop willdiscuss the communications process,help supervisors pinpoint and improvecommunication deficiencies, and providetools such as a communications plan andcommunications audit to aid in the com-munications process. The workshop islimited to 30 participants and includeslunch. To register, send an email [email protected]
SHIRT NEWS
PAGE 5OCTOBER 2006 “Readiness Is OUR Number One Priority”
On-final
prove the quality of life for all militarymembers. Remember, if a differenceis to be made, a voice must be heard,and there is power in numbers. If ap-proached in the future by a member whooffers you an opportunity to make a dif-ference, consider that your actions willhave long-term effects. Decide today,that you will become actively in-volved in resolutions important toyou and your family by joining a pro-fessional military organization. Rightnow organizations are working to raisethe awareness level regarding retirementat age 55. If you do not think they coulduse some help — think again.
Helpful Web Sites:http://www.afsahq.orghttp://www.roa.orghttps://www.reaus.org
The IG says .....
For questions or concerns, contactCapt. Mark Vardaro at: 507th ARW/
The primary charge of the IG is tosustain a credible Air Force IG systemby ensuring the existence of respon-sive complaint investigations, andFraud, Waste, and Abuse (FWA) pro-grams characterized by objectivity, in-tegrity and impartiality.
News from ‘the shirt’
The importance of belonging toa Professional Military Organization
Master Sgt. Takesha Williams465th ARS First Sergeant
How would you like to receive yourmilitary retirement benefits at age 55?It can’t happen while you’re reading thisarticle, but what you do afterwards couldmake the difference! If your answer wasyes, then the next question is where doyou sign up, right? One of the best waysto be heard and acknowledged is throughactive membership in a professional mili-tary organization! Join a national orga-nization and make some noise on Capi-tal Hill! Just looking for some local ac-tion? Join a wing level organization!There is no feeling like the one you getwhen you see some good changes in ef-fect and knowing you were a part of it!To jump in with a national organization,grab a phone or hit the keyboard.
Organizations such as the Air ForceSergeants Association (AFSA), Non-Commissioned Officers Association(NCOA), the Reserve Enlisted Associa-tion (REA), and the Reserve Officer’sAssociation (ROA), just to name a few,are highly active in fighting for militaryentitlements. Through their membershipsthese organizations have been respon-sible for improving the quality of life formilitary members and their families.With active and effective programs thatreview and monitor congressional ac-tions, members have been influential inchanging legislation. For example, theAFSA was pivotal in increasing theServicemen’s Group Life Insurance(SGLI) benefit from a maximum of$250K to $400K. By joining a profes-sional military organization you are ulti-mately combining your one voice withthe voices and actions of many. But wait,there’s more! Additionally, members areafforded registered lobbyists who workfor them, Capitol Hill updates, informa-tional pamphlets, magazines, discountedrates on an array of products and ser-vices, and scholarships for their depen-
dents. You also have an opportunity tobecome involved with changes in “yourown back yard!”
At the wing level, organizations suchas the Tinker Reserve Enlisted AdvisoryCouncil (TREAC) and Human Re-source Development Council (HRDC)are two of the proactive voices for AirForce Reserve members. Similar orga-nizations are located within each mili-tary branch although the names may dif-fer; they exist for the sole purpose ofimplementing change. Did you know wenow enjoy dining facility hours compat-ible with UTA hours because folks likeyou changed this through their activememberships? Although much smallerin scope, wing-level organizations haveas great if not a greater impact becausethey affect the wing’s morale, build cohe-siveness, foster teamwork, and promoteespirit de corps! Whether federal or wing-level, the greater the membership the morepowerful our voices become.
Federal-level professional military or-ganizations offer opportunities for positivechange by taking care of the needs of itsmembers. Members also effect changethrough their wing-level organizations.Your benefits, rights, and privileges asmembers of the military are of utmost con-cern to these organizations. Increasedmembership in professional military or-ganizations is needed to continue to im-
513th ACG FWA Hotline:4 0 5 - 5 5 6 -1745; Toll Free: 877-225-5928 (Enter405-694-4026); or Fax at: 405-694-4027or email: [email protected]
AFRC FWA Hotline: (800) 223-1784 Ext. 7-1513
SAF/IGQ FWA Hotline: (800) 538-8429
DoD FWA Hotline:(800) 424-9098
PAGE 6 OCTOBER 2006“Readiness Is OUR Number One Priority”
FAMILY DAY ACTIVITIES
Family day was full of fun for most
Above: Vicki Kelley, 507th LRS,checks a tattoo that she just appliedto a youngster’s arm. The youngman in the background shows off hisnew face painting.
Right: Family Day was madepossible by members of the unitvolunteering on Friday, setting uptents and preparing the grounds forthe activities on Saturday.
More than 1,000 unit and family members gathered at the38th EIG area on Sept. 16th for the annual 507th ARW Fam-ily Day.
The Family Day Committee would like to thank all of thesponsors and workers of the various activities for the kids andfamilies and the unit members who helped with the set up andtear-down of tents and equipment.
“We need to thank Kim Glass, the commander’s wife, forvolunteering to make potato salad and cole slaw to feed 500people each,” said Capt. Robert Atkins. “That was an awe-some job and greatly appreciated.”
Plans are already underway for next year’s family day,which will be held either in July to celebrate the completion ofthe ORI or again in September. More information will followin future issues of the On-Final.
(Photographs by Lt. Col. Richard Curry andTech. Sgt. Melba Koch, 507th ARW PublicAffairs Office)
Col. Randall “Arlo” Guthrie, 507th ARW vicecommander, prepares himself for another dunkin the dunk tank. Commanders, deputycommanders and the command chief took turnsof about 15 minutes each to help raise moneyfor the 507th Civil Engineer Squadron moralefund. Their efforts raised $180.
PAGE 7OCTOBER 2006 “Readiness Is OUR Number One Priority”
FAMILY DAY ACTIVITIES
Above: Kailee and Jeffery met at Family Day andbecame instant friends, playing games at the KidsTent and sliding down the slide at the playground.
Left: Tim Parker takes his turn at the bench presscompetition while Ronald Mitchell serves as aspotter. Winners of the Men’s Bench Press wereKen Sarsycki (1st place), Gerald Duke (2nd place)and Tim Parker (3rd place).Women’s Bench Press winners were MarcieMitchell (1st Place), Makesha Robinson (2nd Place)and Danesha Henry (3rd Place).
Shortly after taking his turn in the dunk tank, Col.Jeffery Glass, 507th ARW commander, was“arrested” by the 507th Security Forces and takento jail. Guarding the prisoner was Staff Sgt.Robert Mussyal. Colonel Glass was a sport andserved the full sentence. Approximately 70people were arrested throughout the day.
PAGE 8 OCTOBER 2006
On-final513th ACG COMMENTARY
Wake-up call: your actions make a difference
As a reservist, it is sometimes easy to work yourself into alull. Most of us have racked up a lot of hours doing what theAir Force trained us to do. Whether you fly a jet, maintain ajet, or work in a support field, chances are you’ve been at itawhile and are very good. So let me remind you why we fight.After all, the Cold War has been over for long time. . .
November 1979 - Iranian students attacked and seized theAmerican Embassy in Tehran
April 1983 - U.S. Embassy compound in Beirut bombed(63 killed)
October 1983 - U.S. Marine Corps headquarters in Beirutbombed (241 killed)
December 1983 - U.S. Embassy in Kuwait bombedSeptember 1984 - Another van was driven into the gate of
the U.S. Embassy in BeirutAugust 1985 - The main gate of the U.S. Air Force Base at
Rhein-Main bombed (22 killed)October 1985 – The cruise ship Achille Lauro is hijacked;
an American in a wheelchair is singled out of the passenger listand executed.
April 1986 - TWA Flight 840 bombed (4 killed)
December 1988 - Pan Am Flight 103 over Lockerbie, Scot-land (259 killed)
February 1993 – World Trade Center bombing in New YorkCity (6 killed)
November 1995 - U.S. military complex in Riyadh, SaudiArabia bombed (7 killed)
June 1996 – Khobar Towers, Dhahran, Saudi Arabia bombed(19 killed)
August 1998 – Two U.S. embassies in Kenya and Tanzaniabombed (257 killed)
October 2000 - U.S.S. Cole bombed (17 killed)Sept. 11, 2001 – There were 2,973 fatalities: 246 on the
four planes, 2,602 in New York City in the tower and on theground, and 125 at the Pentagon.
Operations Iraqi Freedom and Enduring Freedom – on-goingIn case you have forgotten, the United States is at war. It
may not seem like it, but we have been at war for over 25years. Our enemy will not rest, will not negotiate, and will notsurrender. Be assured that every action you take, every mis-sion you fly, every sortie you generate contributes in some wayto the overall fight. Some of you contribute directly, someindirectly – but everyone plays a part. The Global War onTerrorism is real and your actions make a difference.
By Lt. Col. Bryan Dickson, 513th ACG
Reserve O-line forms brick wall
Pictured, from left, Ken Sarsycki, Floyd Conner, Anthony Lee, JimSherman, and Jeremy Allen Photo by Tech. Sgt. Melba Koch
The Reserve flag football program isin its 13th season, and one of its strengthsis the offensive line. Veterans KenSarsycki and Anthony Lee, both in the507th ARW, have been with the team sincethe ‘90s. Floyd Conner and Jim Shermanare second-year players, and Jeremy Allenis in his rookie season. “There are somesmall colleges out there that would like tohave this line,” commented teammateBrian Finley, another long-time veteran andmember of the 507th. The combined weightof the six players (not pictured is WesUpdegraff) is 1,422 pounds, with an aver-age weight of 237 pounds and averagebench press of 399.2 pounds. “Anthonyand Jeremy are the heaviest at 275 poundseach, and both bench 440 pounds,” notedSarsycki. “But my arms are still bigger, andthat’s all that matters,” he continued. TheReserve team plays every Tuesday night,with the base playoffs beginning after theThanksgiving holiday.
TRAINING PLANNER A1TRAINING PLANNER A1
HOT TOPICS : All testing (paper and computer) must bescheduled by sending an e-mail [email protected] with the time anddate that you would like to test and includethe course number.Paper testing on the UTA is only availableat 0750 on Sunday of the main UTA and is inBldg. 1030 (Hangar) Room 214.Computer-based testing on the UTA isavailable on Sunday at 0800 and 1300 inBldg. 1030 (Hangar) in Room 214.Please schedule all tests NLT 1500 on Fridaybefore the UTA. If you are unable to keepthe scheduled time please e-mail or call 734-7075 prior to scheduled testing time.All testing is also available on Wednesdaysat 0800 and 1300 and Thursdays at 1300.NOTE: If you are retaking a test, you mustbring the authorization letter with you or youwill not be allowed to test.
EDUCATION REMINDER:This is just to remind everyone who wishes
to update their Education Records, officer andenlisted, that we need OFFICIAL transcripts tosend or accomplish any updates. This meansthat it CANNOT say "ISSUED TO STUDENT."You may have the college/university send it, wecan request it, or you may bring it in as long as itis in a sealed envelope with a SEAL on the flapAND it does not say "ISSUED TO STUDENT."
Pass and ID Hours of Operation: 0800 -1200 on Saturdays of the UTA. IEU open from 1200-1500 on Saturdayof the main UTA.
Nomination packages for AMN, NCO, or SNCOof the quarter are submitted quarterly. Packagesare due by 1400, on Saturday of the UTA after theend of the quarter. (Apr, Jul, Oct, Jan)
FY 2006/2007 UTA SCHEDULE
14-15 Oct 06 04-05 Nov 06 02-03 Dec 06 06-07 Jan 07 03-04 Feb 07 03-04 Mar 07 14-15 Apr 07
05-06 May 07 16-17 June 07 14-15 Jul 07 04-05 Aug 07
08-09 Sept 07
As of 5 Oct. 2006
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.---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------FOREIGN LANGUAGE PROFICIENCY PAY (FLPP)Reservists may apply for FLPP by submitting a written request for FLPP testing tohis/her commander. FLPP I requires you to be on a tour of duty that requires thelanguage. FLPP II will pay based on active duty days or IDT periods performed.Spanish and Tagalog speakers are not entitled to FLPP II. If you are proficient at aforeign language and are interested in this program please contact Chief Master Sgt.Sharlotte Epps or Master Sgt. Sharon Lochman in the MPF Education Office at 734-7075 for instructions on how to apply for FLPP.------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
TUITION ASSISTANCEReserve members are eligible to apply for TA for Distance Learning and In-Residencecourses 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.Payment occurs after satisfactory course completion. You must provide a paid receiptand your grade NLT 60 days after course completion. TA reimbursement amountsare set at 75 percent ($4500) per FY (Masters) or 100 percent ($4500) per FY (Bach-elors). For more information contact Chief Master Sgt. Sharlotte Epps or Ms. KimSilkwood in 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 military environ-ment. Not all of today’s mid-level NCOs have extensive first-hand supervisory experi-ence in a reserve environment; therefore, the instruction in this course is intended toimprove the students’ military supervisor capabilities and understanding of their posi-tions as related to the USAFR. We focus on individual improvement which is ultimatelythe real source of organizational excellence and success. See your unit training man-ager for more information. NEXT CLASS: Dec. 4 - 15, 2006.----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
FAMILY CAREIf you need to be on the Family Care Plan, notify your first sergeant ASAP - IAW AFI 36-2908. Single parents and dual military couples with children must have a Family Care Plancompleted within 90 days of in-processing or family status change. VIRTUAL MPF1. Address Changes - You no longer have to go to 4 different screens/areas toupdate your address!!!2. Point Summaries - Point Summaries 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.
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TRAINING PLANNER A3
Editor: Chief Master Sgt. Sharlotte A. Epps, Chief, Education & Training (ART)Assistant Editor: Master Sgt. Sharon Lochman, Asst. Chief, Education & Training (ART)Contributing 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)Senior Airman Elvira Munoz, Education and Training AdvisorMs. 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 1043, WingTraining Room.
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 1043, WingTraining Room.
Newcomers Ancillary Training
BAQ RecertificationDeadlines
If Last Then Forward Recertifica-Digit of Listing to Unit tion due inSSAN is: Commander in: by end of
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, classifyingoccupations, and developing trainning programs. The Wing Survey Control Monitor (SCM)works with the Unit Training Manager (UTM) to ensure surveys are completed. AFI 36-2623, paragraph 2.7 makes completion of these surveys mandatory for all Air ForceReserve members. It is extremely important these surveys are completed by the suspensedate. If you have any questions, contact Ms. Kim Silkwood or Staff Sgt. Jeremy Hudson at734-7075 or your UTM.
Military PayFile for Receive Directpay by: Deposit by:
17 Oct 25 Oct
19 Oct 27 Oct
23 Oct 01 Nov
26 Oct 03 Nov
31 Oct 07 Nov
02 Nov 09 Nov
07 Nov 15 Nov
09 Nov 17 Nov
14 Nov 22 Nov
Newcomers Ancillary Training Phase I & II are conducted monthly in Bldg 1043, WingTraining Room in basement. Unit/Ancillary Training Managers are responsible for en-suring their new personnel are scheduled to attend within 90 days of their first UTA. If youhave questions, contact the MPF Education & Training Office at 734-7075.Day Time Subject OPR
Phase ISaturday 1305-1315 Wing Lodging Program SVFSaturday 1315-1415 Drug and Alcohol, Suicide/
Workplace Violence Prevention SGSaturday 1430-1500 Local Conditions/ORM SESaturday 1500-1530 OPSEC Training OGSaturday 1530-1545 0013/A2D2 briefing MSG
Phase IISunday 0800-0815 Base Populace CEXSunday 0815-0830 IG Briefing IGSunday 0830-0945 UCMJ/Ethics JASunday 1000-1030 Counter Intel/Awareness SFSunday 1030-1100 Human Relations MESunday 1300-1600 First Duty Station ME
Military Pay (405) 734-5016
NEWS TO USE
SPORTS
PAGE A4 OCTOBER 2006“Readiness Is OUR Number One Priority”
By Capt. Bill Pierce507th ARW Public Affairs
An Airman with the 513th Aircraft Maintenance Squad-ron mauled his way on to the Air Force Rugby Team.
Master Sgt. Jeremy Allen, integrated avionics sec-tion chief, joined the reserve to play rugby. Nine yearslater Allen is still playing rugby and was recently se-lected to play for the Air Force Rugby Team.
This marks Allen’s eighth straight selection. “It ishard work each year, especially when you hear thenames of those people wanting to replace you on theteam,” said Allen.
This rugby veteran knows that no one has a freepass. “Each of us has to show up and put in the work,”said Allen.
The Air Force team holds an annual trial camp formembers like Allen to try out for the team. “Over 200people show up to try out,” said Allen. Prospectivemembers are divided into teams. This gives the teamscouts an opportunity to see what each member bringsto the team.
Tryouts last several days which include workouts,classroom instruction and concludes with a weekendlong tournament. “If you don’t show up looking like andperforming like you’ve played all year, you’ll be cut,”said Allen.
Of the 200 people to try out, approximately 30 to 35people make the first round of cuts. “As long as I showup 100-percent prepared, Iwalk away satisfied, know-ing all my hard work andeffort was realized on thefield,” said Allen. In Octo-ber the remanding memberscompete for the limited slotson the team a t CampLeJeune in North Carolina.
Sergeant Al len i s nostranger to this process. Heserved as team captain onthe 2004 championship team.“All together we’ve won theArmed Forces Championshiptournament in 2000, 2002,2004 and 2005.
“We have excellentcoaches who are alwayslooking for that edge.
Whether it’s ourdiets, exercising,or weight training,our coaches arealways in contactwith us. You haveto have a goodbalance and be awell-rounded ath-lete to compete inrugby,” saidAllen.
Rugby, ac-cording to Allenis l ike hockey.“Every guy onthe team has tohave both offen-sive and defen-sive skills,” said Allen. “Some skills are instinctive someare learned.”
With one of the most physical positions, Allen, a looseheadprop, continues his training to be the best he can be. “I’malways looking at the guy across the field. It’s not only greatto beat him physically but mentally too,” said Allen.
After all the preparation and sacrifice Sergeant Allen’shopes turn to winning. “After a game and you’re beat downand hopefully a winner, what’s important to me is knowingI have lived to fight another day,” said Allen.
513th reservist is member of Air Force Rugby Team
Jeremy Allen
Jeremy Allen, center with the ball, fights off an opponent.
NEWS TO USE
NEWS TO USEFIT TO FIGHT
PAGE 9OCTOBER 2006 “Readiness Is OUR Number One Priority”
Story and photos byMaj. Walter Jacques, 513th AMXS
An Air Force reservist at Tinker AirForce Base is taking the charge to be“Fit to Fight” seriously. Master Sgt. MattThomas, a jet engine mechanic for the513th Aircraft Maintenance Squadron,has used the program to get himself notonly fit but into outstanding permanenthealth as well. In only 14 short months,Thomas has increased his overall FTFscore from 43 (Poor) to 98.89 (not onlyExcellent, but near perfect). In the pro-cess, he lost 122 pounds and shaved awhopping 13-1/2 inches off his abdomi-nal circumference.
Plagued with high blood pressure,back and foot problems and being 100pounds overweight, Thomas took the ini-tiative and worked out a solution. Thebeginning came with his resolve a yearago to change things for the better, initi-ating a self-help program that includedradical life changes in exercise and diet.
513th ACG reservist gets ‘fit to fight’
ning helped in another aspect of the FTFregimen as well: his crunch count morethan doubled, from only 19 in May of2005 to 42 last month.
In addition to the running, Thomasincreased his ability to lose weight andexercise with a radical change in diet,from standard western ‘fast food’-stylefare to a healthier mixture minus thefried, rich and sugary foods. Instead ofsoft drinks, he now drinks Crystal Light,a calorie-free drink.
One of the great aspects of hisprogress is that, at 45, he falls into therange where lifestyle change is ex-tremely difficult. Nevertheless, Tho-mas stepped up to the challenge, pro-viding an inspiration for all the otherswho are set in their ways, resistant tochange or who think that they are asgood as they are going to get. Asked thebest part? “My wife can finally put herarms around me.” If that isn’t motiva-tion, what is?
“Exercise is the main ingredient to los-ing the weight and getting back into ahealthy routine quickly,” he noted.
To get into shape, Thomas appliedthe discipline, motivation and hardwork characteristic of his perfor-mance as a respected, professionalAirman. He began working out tena-ciously, running 4-5 miles, five timesper week. Not liking to do static exer-cise machines, he found that the run-ning was the best all-around exercisethat would lean him down while en-hancing his endurance in the other ar-eas of exercise and fitness. Were thereobstacles? “The TV is your worse en-emy while on the weight-loss journey,”said Thomas.
The running clearly paid off for Tho-mas, who cut a full third off his time,from a 15:40 mile to just over 10 min-utes and he recently ran the WildcatterRun 10K (six miles) in under 40 min-utes. Strengthening his abs with the run-
At more than 100 pounds overweight as early as 1994, Master Sgt. MattThomas had a challenge ahead of him if he wanted to be fit to fight.
Matt Thomas prepares to run theWildcatter Run 10K.
SAFETY NEWS TO USE
Know the rules
Safety tips for Halloween
PAGE 10 OCTOBER 2006“Readiness Is OUR Number One Priority”
By the 507th ARW Safety Office
1. Do not allow a child to go “Trick orTreating” alone. Be sure older childrenTAKE A FRIEND and an adult accom-panies young children.
2. Be certain to accompany young chil-dren to the door of every house they ap-proach.
3. Be certain that parents are familiarwith every house and with all people fromwhich the children receive treats.
4. Children should be cautioned thatthey should not enter any home withoutprior permission from their parents.
5. Children should be cautioned not toapproach any vehicle, occupied or not,unless they know the owner and are ac-
companied by a parent.6. Make sure that all children carry a
glow stick or wear reflective clothing.7. When using facial masks,
make sure that children can seeand breathe properly and easily.
8. All costumes and masksshould be clearly marked asflame resistant.
9. Children should be warnedto never approach any house thatis not well lit and does not have aporch light on.
10. Children should be cautioned to re-member any suspicious incidents and re-port them to their parents and/or the properofficial.
11. Children should be cautioned to run
away from people who try to trick themwith special treats.
12. Children should be instructed toscream and make ascene if anyone tries tograb them or force them,in any way, to go withthem.
13. Parents should in-spect all treats and dis-pose of anything thatseems to have been tam-pered with, has been
opened, or is not wrapped.14. A good alternative to “Trick or Treat-
ing” is for parents to organize parties at home,in schools, or in community centers.
Have a safe and fun Halloween.
By Senior Master Sgt. Gary A. Bristol507th ARW Safety
The Coconut Grove, once a trendy Boston-area night club,was destined to be the site of the deadliest night club fire inUnited States history. On the night of Nov. 28, 1942, TheCoconut Grove was packed full with men and women, manyof whom were in the military. The recently expanded nightclub had approximately 1,000 occupants on that evening, morethan twice its official capacity of 460. The club had beendecorated in a romantic tropical style with paper palm trees,cloth draperies covering the ceiling, and other flimsy decora-tions. Some of the decorations were allowed to obscure exitsigns.
That night an employee was instructed to change one ofthe light bulbs in the dimly-lit lounge area. Unable to see thelight socket in the dim light, the employee lit a match. Howthings happened next is unclear, but somehow one of the arti-ficial palm trees caught fire. Waiters tried to douse the fire,but despite their efforts, the fire spread quickly to nearby deco-rations on the walls and ceiling. Flames raced through theclub’s adjacent bar, the new lounge area and main club room.Within five minutes the entire night club was ablaze.
Panicked club patrons tried to exit through both sides ofthe club’s main entrance, a single revolving door. One other
unlocked door, which opened inwards, was rendered uselessbecause of the people pushing people against it trying to escape.To keep club patrons from exiting without paying their bill, theclub’s management had the side exit doors welded shut.
When firefighters arrived, they had to dismantle the re-volving door to get inside. They found patrons’ bodies behindthe revolving door piled four to five deep for almost 40 feet ateach side. The fire took 492 lives, and hundreds more wereinjured.
The investigating fire officials said that 300 of those killedcould have been saved if exit doors opened outward. Emer-gency lighting is now a requirement as a result of the concerngenerated by this fire. Exit signs are required to be visible atall times. Occupancy capacity placards are now posted, andfire sprinkler systems are used in places of assembly. Manyof the safety features we now take for granted or even gounnoticed today are a result of the many fire codes whichwere established after the fire. Have you ever noticed howrevolving doors now have flanking exit doors?
There is still a valuable lesson for all of us here. Practicingsafety is a life-style commitment. Never try to circumventsafety standards and never assume “the other guy” has takencare of making sure your environment is safe. You are thatother guy.
Fire Prevention Week, Oct. 8-14
The Coconut Grove Night Club
MEDICAL NEWS
PAGE 11OCTOBER 2006 “Readiness Is OUR Number One Priority”
By Capt. Michelle Billetter507th MDS
Many of you know me and have satthrough one of my briefings on SuicidePrevention.
Suicide is preventable, but detectingand keeping it from happening within thereserve military structure can be diffi-cult. I believe if we actively try to getto know one another on a personal levelit will help us see the warning signs inour troops. Suicide prevention is a partof Self-Aide Buddy Care, it’s a part ofthe Air Force’s 11 Suicide Initiatives anda key component of the “Wing Man”concept. Recognizing that someone ishurting and getting them to talk aboutwhatever is going on may be the firststep with intervening in a potential sui-cide situation. Individuals who are sui-cidal are in a great deal of pain and theycome to a point where they see takingtheir own life as the only way to endtheir pain. But reaching this point takestime and it does not happen overnight.
Suicide is the second leading causeof death in the military. There are manyrisk factors for suicide and generallythese individuals have more than one is-sue going on in their life that is over-whelming to them. A few risk factorsinclude financial problems, relationshipproblems, job stress, disciplinary pro-ceedings, self-esteem and others. Signsand symptoms of depression include, in-somnia, sleeping all the time, differencein appearance, talking about death anddying, weight gain or a weight loss, per-sonality change, change in job perfor-mance, isolate themselves, quit doingthings that they normally enjoy, etc. Ev-eryone is different but basically we arelooking for changes in that individual’snormal behavior.
Everyone’s “normal” is different. Ithink one of the toughest aspects of thisis not to judge these individuals based
on what we think should be stressful ornot. Everyone has a different tolerancefor stress, different support systems anda different way of handling life’s issuesand challenges. What stresses one per-son out may not bother another personat all. Being judgmental will only hurtour mission to prevent suicides. One ofour protective factors is being a part ofan organization or group. The Reserveis an organization that cannot functionwithout being a “team.” I know thatthere are individuals within our wing andthey feel that this is their family. Theydon’t have anyone else they can leanupon. The Chaplain is a great source touse if you have any individual that mayneed to talk to someone. If you noticesomeone that you think may be havingproblems, do you know what you shoulddo? You should ask them if everythingis alright and describe to them whatchanges you are seeing in them. Get in-volved -- use open-ended questions, givethem your undivided attention, let their
supervisor/first sergeant know that youare concerned about them and why. Ifthey say that they are suicidal do notleave them alone. Get them to the Chap-lain or emergency room for assessment.Seeking assistance can be a challengefor reservists. Be persistent in gettingcare your troop needs.
I have spoken to many individuals af-ter briefings and some personnel havesought me out to just “talk” about issues,concerns, and potential problems. That isone reason why we require in-person brief-ings every year. I’m happy to talk to any-one if they want to talk to me about theirproblems or they just need to vent.
For more help, the National Hope Linenumber is 800-SUICIDE. They provideaccess to trained telephone counselors 24hours a day, 7 days a week.
If you haven’t had your annual brief-ing, please contact me. It needs to becompleted before the end of the year. Ican be reached at [email protected].
Suicide prevention: Taking care of your own
Women often perform caregiver duties for their own families andother relatives and friends, but often neglect to take care of themselves.Oklahoma State Department of Health (OSDH) officials are remindingwomen that October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month and that theyneed to take care of their health. One way to do so is to be screened forbreast and cervical cancer.
Routine screening with mam-mograms helps detect breast cancer forearlier treatment and increased chances of survival. Oklahoma ranks 20thin the nation for breast cancer deaths. In 2006, approximately 2,850 womenwill be diagnosed and approximately 550 women will die from breast cancerin Oklahoma.
With routine screening using Pap smears, cervical cancer is almost to-tally preventable because pre-cancerous conditions are detected and treated.Unfortunately, Oklahoma ranks 11th in the nation for cervical cancer deaths.In 2006, approximately 130 women will be diagnosed and approximately 50-60 women will die from cervical cancer in Oklahoma.
For more information about breast cancer awareness, visit http://www.cdc.gov/cancer/breast.
October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month
More women need to get tested
MAINTENANCE NEWS
PAGE 12 OCTOBER 2006“Readiness Is OUR Number One Priority”
Master Sgt. Floyd ‘Flash’ Gordon moves on
Senior Master Sgt. Rodney Mesenbrink, right,presented Master Sgt. Floyd Gordon with his veryown, personalized, F-4 drag chute during hisgoing-away roast held last month. The gift left himspeechless. Photo by Tech. Sgt. Melba Koch
By Tech. Sgt. Melba Koch507th ARW Public Affairs
The Air Force says you have to go, in most cases, whenyou have reached your high year of tenure. So MasterSgt. Floyd “Flash” Gordon is going out the door, and straightto the Air National Guard. “They welcome you with openarms when you have a needed skill and you haven’t turned60 years old,” said Gordon. Flash is a few years from thatmandatory retirement age and still wants to turn wrenchesand serve his country.
Gordon was an engine mechanic with the 507th Mainte-nance Squadron until last month when he left to join the Guard.He hopes to be back out here soon when the Guard and the507th start working together. I first joined because I wantedto serve my country, said Gordon, and I think I still have acouple of TDYs left in me.
Gordon entered active Air Force in June 1970 and servedeight years before getting out. He earned his nickname of“Flash” while on active duty and stationed in New York. Asupervisor started calling him Flash, after the movie charac-ter Flash Gordon and it just kind of stuck. He came close tobeing drafted during the Vietnam era. As he completed basictraining and was getting ready for tech school, his numberwas the first one pulled on July 4, 1970. Gordon became amember of the 507th in 1979 and has been here ever since.“I’m the last F-105 (J75 turbo jet) mechanic left at the 507th,”said Gordon.
During his 34 year, 7 month military adventure, (as anART and under the age of 55, he was able to stay longer than33 years) Gordon has been a telephone lineman, radar re-pairman, in vehicle maintenance, a heavy equipment opera-tor, mechanic, and in the 3rd Combat Communications Grouphe worked on everything except tanks, etc. and traveled tojust about every country or region except England. He haslogged more than 900 flying hours since the unit received thetankers.
“There’s no place else that you can get experience likethis and get paid for having this much fun,” said Gordon.“Why would I want to do anything else; I’d do it for free,”continued Gordon.
“Without my family at my side, I would not have beenable to do the things I have done over the years,” said Gor-don. “I missed our first five wedding anniversaries, I missedfour of my daughter’s birthdays, and some holidays, too,” hecontinued. “If I was my wife, I would have kicked me out along time ago! So, yes, she has put up with a lot over theyears,” said Gordon.
When asked who the most memorable military characterwas that he knew during his career, he quickly threw out thenames of Mike Grady, Master Sgt. John June and SeniorMaster Sgt. Cicero Quinn, among others. Gordon says theseguys were the driving forces and mentors that kept him onthe right path. And those same guys thought the same of him.
“Floyd Gordon, aka ‘Flash,’ is one of the most dedicatedworkers I know,” said Mike Grady, a former unit enlistedmember in the Avonics Shop, who has retired. “His faithful-ness to his country as exhibited by his many years of serviceis exemplary, but beyond that, I consider him a close personalfriend as well as a brother in Christ,” continued Grady.“Knowing him and serving with him has truly been a bless-ing. His friendship has been enriching, and I wish him well inhis future endeavors. God bless, Flash. Don’t be a stranger,”commented Grady.
And Gordon’s advice to younger Airmen just starting outwas to do your job and high quality work. The opportunitiesare unlimited and this is one of the most exciting times to bein the military.
Gordon isn’t looking past the “60” timeframe for now. Hejust wants to continue with his military career and maybe geta chance to help more with the war effort.
KUDOS
“Readiness Is OUR Number One Priority” PAGE 13OCTOBER 2006
Promotion to: Airman507th OSF Dina M. Unklesbay
Promotion to: Airman 1st Class513th MXS Casey L. Chambers507th SVF Joseph L. Pettiford
Promotion to: Senior Airman970th AACS Matthew Benshoof507th CES Harold J. Jones507th SFS Casey M. Pearson513th MXS Andrew J. Quinn72nd APS Larry K. Sanders970th AACS Paul W. Steger
Promotion to: Staff Sergeant507th AMXS Duane S. Deeter507th LRS Karen L. Fowler
507th SVF Tyesha N. Francis513th MXS Nicholas A. Hoover507th CES Eric W. Liftee507th LRS Adrian D. Mack513th ACG Julie A. McKinney507 SFS David M. Morris507 MXS Hugo E. Pike507 SFS Anthony P. Robinson
Promotion to: Tech. Sergeant507 ARW Barbara G. Belyeu507 MXS Kelly L. Chastain72 APS Jared M. Colyard507 OG Ernest Miller507 MXS Scott Richardson507 AMXS Michael C. Rogers513 ACG Andrea D. Waskom507 LRS Lee W. West
September Promotion ListPromotion to: Master Sergeant
72 APS Ricky G. Aynes507 CES Darren L. Kennedy513 MXS Michelle MacFarlane970 AACS Margaret A. Ralston507 MXG Richard W. Stull513 OSF Jane Ward
Promotion to: Chief Master Sgt.507 MXG Robert L. Legg507 ARW Tina M. Long
October PEP promotionto Senior Master Sergeant
465th ARS Lowman, Kathleen
Tech. Sgt. Gary Berry 507th MXSAerospace Ground Equip. Tech.
Tech. Sgt. Roland Brock 507th MXSAviation Maintenance Tech.
Staff Sgt. Paula Carethers 507th MDSAllied Health Sciences
Master Sgt. Melanie Cherry 507th MSGHuman Resource Management
Tech. Sgt. Brian Davie 970th AACSAviation Operations
Tech. Sgt. Ami DuBose 507th AMXSAviation Maintenance Tech.
Senior Master Sgt. Shannon Fipps 507th OGInformation Systems Tech.
Master Sgt. George Gould 72nd APSTransportation
Staff Sgt. David Jones 507th CESAviation Maintenance Tech.
Senior Master Sgt. Randy Long 970th AACSAviation Operations
Master Sgt. Lisa Ortiz 507th MXGAviation Maintenance Tech.
Staff Sgt. Bernice Ray 35th CBCSElectronic Systems Tech.
Fall 2006 Community College of the Air Force graduatesStaff Sgt. William Russell 72nd APS
LogisticsStaff Sgt. Robert Sanchez 507th CES
Fire ScienceAirman 1st Class Paul Steger 513th AMXS
Air and Space Operations Tech.Tech. Sgt. Aaron Thomas 513th MXS
Avionic Systems Tech.
If you are applying for credit to purchase a house, avehicle or anything that requires verification of your em-ployment, you may use the new automated system forverifications of employment called TALX(1-800-367-2884or through the web site www.theworknumber.com .) Ifsomeone calls your office, the Supervisor of an employeeis allowed to verify if that employee works in his/herarea with a yes or no answer, but no additional informa-tion can be provided. If they require additional informa-tion refer them TALX or to Ms. Judy Worsham, 72MSS/DPCER, phone 739-4313. Protect your personal infor-mation and the personal information of our co-workers. Be sure to practice OPSEC.
OPSEC reminder
PAGE 14 OCTOBER 2006“Readiness Is OUR Number One Priority”
On-final UNIT MEMBER REMEMBERED
By Capt. Bill Pierce507th ARW Public Affairs
A former 507th Air Refueling WingMEO officer is found dead in his home.
Leonard Charles Gaines passed
away Saturday, Sept. 23, 2006. Gaineswas discovered Saturday when his girl-friend could not reach him by phone.The cause of death was hypertensiveheart disease, the Tarrant County medi-cal examiner’s office ruled. Dia-betes and sleep apnea added tohis health problems.
In the Reserve, Capt. L.Charles Gaines served his coun-try as a firefighter from 1985until he received his commissionin 1991. He became the assis-tant social actions officer andlater Chief of the Wing MEOoffice until November 2002. Hethen joined the Reserve unit atCarswell (NAS Joint ReserveBase) in Fort Worth, before re-tiring in March 2003 with morethan 23 years service.
“He was a very positive andinsightful person who wouldhelp guide you in the right di-rection when you needed ad-
vice,” said Capt. Ben Walker, a fellowofficer in the reserves.
“He had some positive advice for meafter I returned from officer trainingschool,” said Walker. “He told me toexcel as an officer in the Air Force, bewilling to work hard, take care of thepeople who work for you and be willingto make sacrifices to accomplish yourgoals,” said Walker. “It’s kind of surrealto think about it, because that was thelast time I had a chance to talk to him ashe was on his way to take the Fire Chiefposition in Ft. Worth. This is a great lossfor all of us,” concluded Walker.
Gaines left the 507th after beinghired by the Fort Worth Fire Depart-ment as their 11th Fire Chief since 1893and the first African-American to holdthe top spot.
As a civilian he served his commu-nity as a fireman. According to Gaines’profile on the Fort Worth FireDepartment’s website he began hisfirefighting career in the Air Force in1975 before joining the Oklahoma CityFire Department in 1981.
This native of Oklahoma City servedthe citizens of Oklahoma City from 1981
Former OKIE remembered
former Fort Worth Fire ChiefL. Charles Gaines
Capt. Leonard Gainesformer 507th ARW member
to 2002. His career with the OklahomaCity Fire Department spanned more thantwo decades and took him many places,including the rubble of the Alfred P.Murrah Federal Building the morning ofApril 19, 1995 where he spent the first36 hours on the ground as thedepartment’s operations safety officer.
Chief Gaines received a Bachelor ofScience degree in human resource man-agement from Southern Nazarene Uni-versity in 1989 and a master’s degree inbusiness administration in 2001 fromOklahoma City University.
Memorial services were held in FortWorth and Oklahoma City before hisbody was cremated, as was his wish.
Tinker Honor Guard members, including Master Sgt. Clifton Howard,second from left, 72nd Aerial Port Squadron, prepare to give a final saluteto Capt. Leonard Gaines during a Memorial Service held Sept. 30 inOklahoma City in his honor. Photo by Tech. Sgt. Melba Koch
PAGE 15 OCTOBER 2006 “Readiness Is OUR Number One Priority”
On-finalFINI FLIGHT
Col. William Erickson and his wife, center front, pose with fellow Okies at the conclusion of his Fini Flighton Sept. 12. The former 507th Operations Group vice commander will be assigned to the USSTRATCOM,Offutt AFB, Neb. and work as the assistant to the J8 commander. Photos by Senior Airman Gabriel Padilla
Col. William Erickson is bombarded from all sidesby unit members as he departs the plane on his FiniFlight.
Col. William Erickson protects his face from thewater and various other liquids sprayed on him justmoments after landing Sept. 12.
PAGE 16 OCTOBER 2006“Readiness Is OUR Number One Priority”
R-News
Midwest City, OKStaff Sgt. Neil Lambrecht (405) 732-6279
Tinker AFB, OK(In-Service Recruiter)Master Sgt. Gene Higgins (405) 739-2980
Tulsa, OKMaster Sgt. Monica Basye (918) 250-3400
McConnell AFB, KSMaster Sgt. David McCormick (316) 759-3830Tech. Sgt. Stephan Kimbrough(In-Service Recruiter) (316) 759-3766Staff Sgt. Ron Todd (316) 681-2522
Lawton, OKTech. Sgt. Ronald Gregory (580) 357-2784
Moore, Norman, OKMaster Sgt. Michael Comfort (405) 217-8311
Vance AFB, OKTech. Sgt. Stephan Kimbrough (316) 759-3766
http://get1now.us
Upcoming blood drivesThe next campus blood drive will
be held in November (Saturday, 4th)from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Other datesare Jan. 7, 2007; March 4, 2007; May6, 2007; July 15, 2007; and Sept. 9,2007. All of the blood drives arescheduled for Sunday except the No-vember 2006 drive.
First Sergeant board plannedThe Wing will conduct a First Sergeants
Board during the October UTA. There isone open position in the 513th OperationsSupport Flight. An all-purpose checklistwith First Sergeant Qualification/Require-ments can be picked up at the MilitaryPersonnel Flight, in Building 1043. Thepoint of contact will be Master Sgt.Deborah Kidd, the MPF First Sergeant,and she can be reached at 734-7494. Theboard will convene in the conference roomat Bldg. 240 during the October UTA.
Part
ing
Shot
The 513th Air Control Group celebrated its 10th Anniversary on Sept. 9th with a dinner atthe Sheraton Downtown-Grand Pavilion. Pictured above are part of the 450 attendees,which included current and former unit members and guests from 10th Air Force, 552nd AirControl Wing and the 507th Air Refueling Wing. Photo by Capt. Bill Pierce
507th ARWand
513th ACG
NEWS / INFORMATION / FAMILY READINESS
TINKER AFBOKLAHOMA
www.507arw.afrc.af.mil
507th ARW Recruiters
AFRC patch wear date detailsDue to unforeseen circumstances
regarding availability of the AFRCpatch, the mandatory wear date hasbeen extended to May 1, 2007. Aspatches are issued, members are ex-pected to wear them on their uniformASAP.