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:DUULRU J O I N T December 13, 2013 Vol. 4, No. 49
B A S E
L A N G L E Y - E U S T I S
P u b l i s h e d i n t h e i n t e re s t o f p e r s o n n e l a t J o i n t B a s e L a n g l e y - E u s t i s
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Air force EDITION
w w w. p e n i n s u l a w a r r i o r. c o m
HOLIDAYS
Langley ACE council to host celebration for Airmen — Page 4
ANNIVERSARY
480th ISR Wing celebrates 10 years of operations — Page 8
For more online content, check out www.JBLE.af.mil
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Santa visits ‘exceptional’ family members at Langley – Page 26
TREE LIGHTING Eustis Christmas celebration ‘lights up the night’ — Page 16
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• The Peninsula Warrior - Air Force
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DECEMBER 13, 2013
DECEMBER 13, 2013
• The Peninsula Warrior - Air Force
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BreakingNews
AF announces force-shaping programs From Air Force News Service U.S. Air Force leaders announced Dec. 11 the implementation of force management programs designed to reduce the force by thousands of Airmen and civilian personnel over the next five years. Fiscal year 2014 force management initiatives are in addition to the announcement made in July, stating the Air Force will implement several force management programs to meet budget-reduction requirements. During a testimony to the House Armed Services Committee in November, Gen. Mark A. Welsh III, Air Force chief of staff, said long-term impacts of sequestration could force the service to cut roughly 25,000 Airmen over the next five years. Air Force leaders made the decision to announce the overall strategic plan so Airmen have the necessary time to consider all their career options. “The difference from years past is we announced voluntary programs first, then involuntary,” said Lt. Gen. Samuel Cox, staff for Manpower, Personnel and Services deputy chief. “This year, due to the limited timeframe, we’re announcing all programs at once to allow Airmen time to consider their options and ensure their personnel records are up to date.” Several programs will be announced in the coming weeks, and boards will consider an Airman’s entire record of performance and will be conducted in accordance with Air Force promotion board standards. These programs only apply to active-duty Airmen.
Enlisted programs The chief master sergeant retention board will include two phases. During phase one, chiefs in specific specialties may apply for voluntary retirement in lieu of meeting a retention board. Chiefs with 20 years of total active federal military service from identified overage career fields who do not apply for retirement before the phase one window closes Mar. 15, 2014, will be considered by the board, Cox said. The quality force review board will look at senior master sergeants and below with a negative quality indicator code. Negative codes include reporting identifiers, grade status reasons, reenlistment eligibility or assignment availability codes. For a complete list of codes, visit the MyPers website once the Personnel Services Delivery Memorandum is released. Airmen who have declined to obtain retainability for permanent change of station, temporary duty assignment, training, deployments or promotion will be looked at under the Date of Separation, or DOS, rollback program. Voluntary separation pay applies to Airmen on the active-duty list with more than six years, but no more than 20 years of total active federal military service, and will be offered to enlisted retention board eligible Airmen as a voluntary incentive prior to the boards. The enlisted retention-boards will look at senior airmen through senior master sergeants in overage Air
Force specialty codes with a date of rank of Jan. 1, 2013 or earlier. Senior NCOs with a minimum of 20 years total active federal military service by the mandated retirement date will also be considered by the board.
Officier programs Force shaping boards will consider active-duty officers with more than three but less than six years of commissioned service as of Dec. 31, 2014, for separation and will target career fields and year groups based on sustainment levels. Overages in the officer corps will require the force to conduct an “Enhanced Selective Early Retirement Board.” An ESERB allows the Air Force to consider retirement eligible active-duty officers below the rank of colonel, lieutenant colonels deferred for promotion and colonels with two to four years time in grade. By law, the Air Force will select no more than 30 percent for each grade in each competitive category. Voluntary separation pay will be offered to active-duty officers with six or more years total active federal military service as a voluntary incentive prior to the meeting a board. A reduction in force, or RIF, board will consider regular officers below the grade of lieutenant colonel who have served at least one year of active duty in their current grade, are not on a promotion list and have six or more years total active commissioned service and less than 18 years of total active federal military service.
Active-duty Air Force-wide programs Officers and enlisted personnel in over-manned career fields with more than 15, but less than 20, years of service will be eligible for Temporary Early RetirementAuthority, or TERA. The Air Force will offer TERA starting January 2014. These measures are part of the Air Force’s comprehensive
Force Management Program designed to shape the future force.
Civilian programs The Air Force will also reduce the size of its civilian workforce by roughly 900 positions to meet the demands of a constrained fiscal 2014 budget, officials announced. Specific reductions by location have not yet been determined. The Air Force will implement civilian workforce shaping initiatives, along with continued targeted hiring to comply with mandatory funding targets and to rebalance the civilian workforce to meet skill demands for fiscal year 2014 and beyond. “The Defense Department used administrative furloughs to meet civilian pay budget demands in the compressed time frame between sequestration and the end of the FY13,” said Brig. Gen. Gina Grosso, Air Force force management policy director. “We will meet a similar budgetary challenge in FY14 through a reduced workforce.” The general added that the strategy to meet civilian pay budget targets does not include a furlough. To reduce the number of employees assigned against previously and newly abolished positions, the Air Force plans to maximize the use of Voluntary Early Retirement Authority and Voluntary Separation Incentive Pay to entice employees to leave federal service voluntarily. The programs offer early retirement for employees and up to $25,000 for employees who voluntary separate. “Over the last couple of years, the Air Force has gone through significant civilian pay budget challenges,” Grosso said. “By implementing voluntary programs now, we hope to mitigate future involuntary losses to the civilian workforce.” For information about civilian employment, reduction in force and other personnel issues, visit the myPers website.
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• The Peninsula Warrior - Air Force
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U.S.Air ForceAirman 1st Class Mike Hegarty, 1st Operations Support Squadron air traffic controller, gathers a snack during an Airmen Committed to Excellence event in the Langley Community Center at Langley Air Force Base, Feb. 16. During the holiday season, ACE will host a celebration for Airmen E-1 to E-4 at the Static Display Hangar on Dec. 19 from noon to 4:30 p.m. to express appreciation and foster a sense of camaraderie.
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The Langley Air Force Base U.S. Air Force Airmen Committed to Excellence council will host a holiday celebration for all junior enlisted Airmen and Soldiers at the Static Display Hangar on Dec. 19 from noon to 4:30 p.m. to express appreciation and foster a sense of camaraderie among junior-enlisted Airmen this holiday season. Council advisors from various noncommissioned officer and senior NCO private organizations will serve food and beverages to Airmen, as well as setup and clean-up at the event. “Many times, military members are not able to spend time with their families over the holidays,” said Senior Master Sgt. Sharon Utsey, Headquarters Air Combat Command Contingency and Readiness Branch Weather Division manager and Bayside Top 3 ACE advisor. “Gatherings like this allow Airmen to spend time with their military family in our ‘home away from home.’” The U.S. Air Force Heritage of America Band rock ensemble, Full Spectrum, is scheduled to perform at the event, and a
“What better way for Airmen to get into the holiday spirit than to give while they are receiving a celebration in their honor?” – U.S. Air Force Airman 1st Class Maritzaida Acevedo ACE president disc jockey will follow the band. Airmen can also expect games, prizes and food. “We’re offering this party to the Airmen completely free of charge,” said Airman 1st Class Maritzaida Acevedo, USAF Heritage of America Band vocalist and ACE president. “What better way for Airmen to get into the holiday spirit than to give while they are receiving a celebration in their honor?” At the event, the ACE council will also hold a toy-drive for children to benefit the Children’s Hospital of the King’s Daughters in Norfolk. Toys are preferred to be new, sturdy and cannot portray violence. For more information, contact the ACE executive council at langleyairmenscouncilexecs@langley.af.mil.
DECEMBER 13, 2013
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• The Peninsula Warrior - Air Force
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DECEMBER 13, 2013
$UP\ÂśV ÂľEDWWOH EXGG\Âś SURJUDP SURPRWHV DFFRXQWDELOLW\ FDPDUDGHULH GXULQJ KROLGD\V By Staff Sgt. Ciara Wymbs 633RD AIR BASE WING PUBLIC AFFAIRS
Being alone can be difďŹ cult, particularly during the holiday season when many spend time with loved ones. For some Service members, having a “battle buddyâ€? can make the holiday season away from home more enjoyable. From a seasoned U.S. Army Soldier to a new student arriving at Advanced Individual Training, the “battle buddyâ€? system pairs Soldiers to teach teamwork, improve safety, reduce the likelihood of misconduct and develop a sense of responsibility and accountability for fellow Soldiers. Command Sgt. Maj. Estevan Sotorosado, 1st Battalion, 222nd Aviation Regiment command sergeant major, said the system is important because it holds battle buddies accountable and promotes camaraderie. Sotorosado has watched the battle buddy system evolve over the years. “When I was a drill sergeant, the battle buddy system was not enforced like it is today,â€? he said. “Now,
The “battle buddy� system pairs Soldiers to teach teamwork, improve safety, reduce the likelihood of misconduct and develop a sense of responsibility and accountability for fellow Soldiers. it has changed to be 24/7, and has a positive effect [on Soldiers’ decisions].� For Philippine native Spc. James-Ivan Valencia, 359th Inland Cargo Transfer Company cargo specialist, the battle buddy system means having someone who understands him. Valencia said having a battle buddy from the Philippines plays a big part in motivation. Valencia, who came to the U.S. in 2007, met his battle buddy in 2010 during AIT, and said it is good to have someone there. “On the weekends we get together and cook Filipino food and hang out,� said Valencia. “We get together and talk about back home.� According to Sotorosado, the battle buddy program
U.S. Air Force illustration by Staff Sgt. Ciara Wymbs
is also a unique opportunity for Soldiers to look out for each other. With the number of suicides and sexual harassments, the battle buddy system can be a means for prevention. “It is like having [someone who’s] going to be there [for the Soldier],� said Sotorosado. “With a lot of the current issues, it is important to have that.� Whether sharing holiday traditions, providing a support system or promoting “safety in numbers,� the battle buddy concept provides Soldiers a level of reassurance there is always someone there.
DECEMBER 13, 2013
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• The Peninsula Warrior - Air Force
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DECEMBER 13, 2013
480th ISR Wing celebrates
10-year anniversary of worldwide operations By Airman 1st Class Victoria H. Taylor 633RD AIR BASE WING PUBLIC AFFAIRS
The 480th Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance Wing celebrated its 10th anniversary at Langley Air Force Base, Dec. 5. Service members paid tribute to the unit’s history and accomplishments, that led the wing to become the U.S. Air Force leader in globally-networked ISR operations. The 480th ISR Wing heritage dates back to 1943, when the unit was activated as the 480th Anti-submarine Group. The group used specially-modified B-24 Liberator bombers to combat German UBoats in the Atlantic Ocean and the Mediterranean Sea during World War ll. During this time, the unit lost 50 percent of its personnel and received the Distinguished Unit Citation for its actions during the battle for the Atlantic. In 1951, the U.S. Air Force activated the 580th Air Resupply and Communications Wing, employed various aircraft in support of psychological warfare and intelligence operations. At the end of the Korean War, the Air Force inactivated the unit. In 1985, the Air Force consolidated the 480th AG with the 580th ARCW to form the 480th Special Operations Wing. After
The 480th ISR Wing’s heritage dates back to 1943, when the unit was activated as the 480th Anti-submarine Group. The group used specially-modified B-24 Liberator bombers to combat German U-Boats in the Atlantic Ocean and the Mediterranean Sea during World War ll.
the merger, the Air Force didn’t activate the unit, but after the terrorist attacks on Sept. 11, 2001, the Air Force initiated action to strengthen U.S. intelligence capabilities. The Air Force then re-designated the 480th SOW as the 480th Intelligence Wing and activated it Dec. 1, 2003. The Air Force officially re-designated the unit as the 480th ISR Wing on Jan. 1, 2009. As part of the anniversary celebration, 10 distinguished wing veterans received a tour of the 480th ISR Wing and 497th ISR Group facilities. The event concluded with the Heritage Observance Celebration at the Bayview Commonwealth Center. The celebration featured remarks by
Retired U.S. Air Force Brig. Gen. Larry K. Grundhauser, the first commander of the 480th Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance Wing, speaks at the wing’s Heritage Observance Celebration. As a part of the anniversary, 10 distinguished wing veterans received a tour of the 480th ISR Wing and 497th ISR Group facilities.
Photos by Airman 1st Class Victoria H. Taylor
Attendees view a display in honor of the 480th Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance Wing. Since Dec. 1, 2003, the 480th ISR Wing has expanded to become the U.S. Air Force leader in globally-networked ISR operations.Three ISR Wing Airmen also gave presentations focused on their experience in a deployed environment that directly affected their miss at Langley Air Force Base.
special guest and distinguished visitor, retired Air Force Brig. Gen. Larry K. Grundhauser, the 480th ISR Wing’s first commander. “[The event] showcases our accomplishments and just how important it is to reflect upon the origins of the wing and the history of our organization,” said Grundhauser. “Seeing how far we’ve come is truly amazing.” Three ISR Airmen also gave presentations which focused on their experience in a deployed environment that directly affected the mission at Langley.
The 480th Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance Wing Heritage Observance Celebration featured remarks by special guest and distinguished visitor, retired U.S. Air Force Brig. Gen. Larry K. Grundhauser, the first commander of the 480th ISR Wing, and a video presentation.
Col. Jeffrey A. Kruse, 480th ISR Wing commander, wrapped up the celebration with closing remarks to Airmen. “It is a thrill to be on this team,” said Kruse. “This team dares to excel and dares to exceed and there is no telling what we will achieve next.” The 480th ISR Wing continues to accomplish its mission by delivering timely and relevant ISR information from a variety of platforms, 24 hours a day, yearround in direct support of Air Force leaders, key coalition partners and combatant commanders worldwide.
U.S. Air Force Col. Jeffrey A. Kruse, 480th Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance Wing commander, speaks at the Heritage Observance Celebration. Three ISR Airmen also gave presentations which focused on their experience in a deployed environment that directly affected the mission on home soil.
DECEMBER 13, 2013
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Congratulations to the Still Serving Veteran of the Year and our 2013 Honorees 2013 Honorees Fred Archer
Frank Cubillo
Sue Fitzgerald
Barbara Geraghty
Leon Hill
Mike Hoffpauir
Les Page
Don Phillips
Jason Redmond 2013 Still Serving Veteran of the Year
William Hayden
Congratulations to all of our nominees! Roberto Aguilar Fred Archer Pamela Barnaby James W. Beckwith, Jr. David Boisselle
Emanuel Chesnut Francis Cubillo Ralph Fisher Sue Fitzgerald Glenn Gately
Barbara Geraghty Dale W. Harrington James B. Hart William Hayden
Robert Herbin Leon Hill Mike Hoffpauir Donald Macari
John Olson Les Page Don Phillips Jason Redman
Thomas L. Van Petten Gary Wilks, Sr. David Williams Clarence Willis
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DECEMBER 13, 2013
Special duty assignment pay to change for some Soldiers By David Vergun ARMY NEWS SERVICE
Associate, Bachelor’s, and Master’s Degree Programs Classes Start January 6th Registration in Progress
LANGLEY EDUCATION OFFICE
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www.saintleo.edu/MilitaryVA Certified by SCHEV Saint Leo University admits students of any race, color, religion, and national or ethnic origin.
FIND WHAT YOU’RE E LOOKING FOR IN THE CLASSIFIEDS.
Some U.S. Army Soldiers receiving special-duty assignment pay, or SDAP, are now seeing an increase in payments or seeing it for the first time, while others will soon see less. Roughly 4,000 fewer Soldiers will be eligible for SDAP under changes announced in an All Army Activities message Nov. 21. However, about 27,000 Soldiers will still receive the special pay, according to officials. Sgt. Maj. Allen Clifton, Office of the Deputy Chief of Staff, G-1, explained the changes. “As the Army moves into a more resource-constrained environment, we must fully evaluate each of our compensation programs by weighing total costs and benefits of the current programs,” said Clifton. “The Army regards SDAP as a valuable tool to encourage Soldiers to volunteer to perform extremely demanding duties or duties demanding an unusual degree of responsibility. The decision to restructure SDAP was not taken lightly and we spent significant time evaluating all relevant factors with the understanding that our final decision would affect Soldiers and their families.” There are six SDAP monthly pay bands: SD1 - $75; SD2 - $150; SD3 $225; SD4 - $300; SD5 - $375; SD6 $450.
New and increased SDAP All new and increased SDAP changes took effect Nov. 1. Rangers who are E-5 and above are now eligible for SD-2 benefits and those serving with the 75th Rangers are eligible for SD-4. Also, nominative sergeants major rated by general officers or senior executive service equivalents will receive SD-1 when serving under a brigadier general and SD-4 when serving under a general.
Reduced SDAP Special-duty pay reductions will take effect Feb. 1, 2014. However, if a Soldier ’s SDAP level was reduced
to an amount that is less than 50 percent of their current amount, then he or she is eligible for the half rate for 12 months. SDAP will decrease for non-commissioned officers assigned to the recruiting force and White House support activities. Other SDAP reductions include squad leaders and platoon sergeants serving in warrior transition units, Criminal Investigation Division special agents, technical escort unit Soldiers, air traffic controllers and foreign attaché NCOs.
No change in SDAP SDAP will remain at its current level for Soldiers serving in certain special operations units and for command sergeants major rated by general officers or senior executive service equivalents.
Eliminated SDAP Soldiers assigned to the Defense Courier Service, On-site Inspection and Defense Threat Reduction Agencies or to those serving as career counselors, transition NCOs and recruiting support functions above the battalion level will no longer recieve SDAP benefits. Terminations of SDAP will take effect Feb. 1, 2015, and partial termination will take effect Feb. 1, 2014.
SDAP Eligibility Enlisted Soldiers are eligible for SDAP when one or more of three conditions are met: The duty is extremely physically, psychologically or cognitively demanding, carries a greater-than-normal degree of responsibility for the Soldier ’s rank and experience or requires special qualifications that are met through rigorous screening or special schooling. Additionally, Soldiers eligible for SDAP must meet all of the following four requirements:
SEE SPECIAL DUTY PAGE 11
DECEMBER 13, 2013
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Beginning Dec. 1, TRICARE implemented an easier way to access customer service features under the “I want to” section of the www.tricare.mil homepage. TRICARE brings together the healthcare resources of each of military service and supplements them with networks of civilian health care professionals to provide access and service, while maintaining the capability to support military operations. The redesigned homepage includes tools for beneficiaries to access healthcare benefits, prescriptions, enrollments and more. The new features also include quick links to secure login portals for more than a dozen customer service features including: ■ Managing prescriptions ■ Enrolling or purchasing a plan ■ Finding a doctor ■ Updating personal information ■ Filing or checking on a claim ■ Paying a bill ■ Booking appointments at a military hospital or clinic ■ Changing a primary care physician ■ Viewing military health records The new homepage can also save beneficiaries’ time and unnecessary trips to military treatment facilities. By allowing access from home, beneficiaries now have options to contact mobile, online and toll-free customer service representatives easily. Other common requests like comparing plans, forms and the ability to subscribe to TRICARE e-mail alerts can also be found on the website.
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Happy Holidays from Brandon’s Kitchen! Good Food, Good People, Good Times
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Donna Ekman, Joint Base Langley-Eustis Veterinarian Treatment Facility vet technician, checks the heart of Dave, a 1-year-old Labrador retriever, at Langley Air Force Base, Dec. 5. JBLE VTFs offer a widerange of information including in-depth checklists and an inventory of suggested websites that give Service members step-bystep directions to make the move easier.
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• The Peninsula Warrior - Air Force
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757-865-1225 IN THE TIDEMILL SHOPPING CENTER 2710 N. ARMISTEAD AVE. SUITE C • HAMPTON 23666 Week Day Hours: 11:30am - 2:30pm & 5:00pm - 8:30pm Saturday: 12:30pm - 8:30pm • Sunday: 1:30pm - 6pm
Even under millions of lights, their smiles will shine the brightest. ĆŤ Ćľ Ä‹ ĂĂĢ ĆŤÄ‹ ÄƒÄ Ćľ ĆŤ Ćľ ÄĽ ĆŤĆľ *Military Appreciation Days (MAD) rates are only available through MWR/ITT ofďŹ ces and are not available at park’s front gate. Offer valid for active duty, dependents, retirees and reservists with valid ID cards only through Dec 31, 2013. Purchase subject to base surcharge. Prices and products are subject to change without notice. Restrictions apply. Christmas town is open select days and hours and is a separate ticketed event, not included with pass membership or Waves of Honor™. Š2013 SeaWorld Parks & Entertainment, Inc. All rights reserved.
Although they are not ying business class, more than 100,000 pets travel by air each year, according to the Humane Society of the United States. Service members with animals know the importance of their precious cargo every step of the move. Relocating half way around the world, or even across the country can be a stressful experience, but adding a four-legged friend can make the process more complex. At Joint Base Langley-Eustis, procedures are in place to make sure your pet’s trip goes as smoothly as your own. According to Dr. Kathleen Nowak, JBLE Veterinary Treatment Facility veterinarian, time is of the essence. “My biggest piece of advice for Service members would be to make an appointment with the clinic as soon as you’ve received your orders,â€? said Nowak. “Always start early and get your information so you can be one step ahead.â€? The JBLE VTFs offer a wide range of information including in-depth checklists and an inventory of suggested websites, including www.humanesociety.org, that give users stepby-step directions to ensure pets will be able to accompany you to a new installation. Service members should check with their destination base when moving overseas for speciďŹ c pet health requirements, transportation methods and quarantine issues that may apply. Depending on the destination, pets may be required to recieve a microchip, vaccination paperwork and a state health certiďŹ cate. “For many places overseas, your pet must receive their shots within a deďŹ ned time frame before entering another country, or they are may have to be quarantined at the owners expense,â€? said Nowak. Nowak said quarantine can become costly, averaging $17 a day, and if the pet arrives unprepared and in come locations, this method can be
Photo by Airman 1st Class Victoria H. Taylor
“My biggest piece of advice for Service members would be to make an appointment with the clinic as soon as you’ve received your orders. Always start early and get your information so you can be one step ahead.� — Dr. Kathleen Nowak JBLE Veterinary Treatment Facility veterinarian implemented for up to three months. Nowak added many countries restrict certain canine breeds, making it important to have alternate arrangements and relocation contacts if necessary. Restrictions vary by base and although the base may permit a certain breed of dog, housing in the community may not. It is imperative to know local laws and ordinances regarding dog breeds and their breed-
speciďŹ c legislation before you move, said Nowak. If a Service member is moving within the U.S., a permanent change of station is just like moving from one town to another. While on a cross-country trek to a new location, military members should always be prepared for bumps in the road. Installation rules vary from one base to another, and there could be restrictions imposed in on-base housing, like a two-pet limit. “Getting a state health certiďŹ cate for your pet before traveling across the U.S. will also ensure you do not run into any problems,â€? said Nowak. Service members can always prepare a pet before receiving notice of a PCS by keeping up to date with shot records, health certiďŹ cates and veterinarian visits. Preparation can take some of the stress out of the equation for both master and pet when the moving day arrives. For more information, contact the Langley VTF at 764-5678 or the Fort Eustis VTF at 878-5824.
DECEMBER 13, 2013
New policies now in place for Army tuition assistance From Herb Bateman Army Education Center The Army’s Tuition Assistance program will change starting Jan. 1, 2014, to support its mission of providing financial assistance for voluntary off-duty education for Soldiers’ professional and personal self-development goals. The new policy will allow Soldiers to use TA after graduating Advanced Individual Training, Officer Candidate School or Basic Officer Leadership Course, or upon completion of their first year of service, said Jovito Aboc, Herb Bateman Army Education Center senior education services specialist. Soldiers are eligible for benefits covering up to 16 semester hours per year, and can use TA for a graduate degree after completion of 10 years of service. The 10-year requirement only applies if TA was used to pay for any portion of undergraduate coursework. Soldiers will not be able to use TA for a second equivalent degree, such as a second bachelor’s or master’s, and all courses must be part of an approved degree plan. Tuition assistance cannot be used for first professional degrees, including a philosophy, medical or law doctorate. Aboc said staff members at the Bateman education center are doing what they can to ensure Soldiers are aware of the change and receive proper assistance. “We have a staff of counselors here to help Soldiers find the fastest way to earn their degree and maximize the use of tuition assistance without jeopardizing their mission,” said Aboc. Soldiers will continue to receive up to $250 per semester hour. The current policy limit of 130 semester hours for completion of a bachelor’s degree and up to 39 semester hours for a master’s degree remains in effect. The center will continue their policy to deny TA for Soldiers identified under an administrative or disciplinary program, such as the Drug Abuse Adverse Action, Army Physical Fitness Test and Army Weight Control Programs. According to Aboc, the Army will honor requests for payment of approved TA requests until Dec. 31. However, no further TA-funded enrollments will be authorized unless Soldiers meet the new eligibility requirements. “If a Soldier is currently enrolled in a class, they can continue that class without interruption,” said Aboc. “If they already have an approved class in the [Army Portal], they will be honored.” For additional information, contact a counselor at the Bateman Education Center at 878-2083, Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday and Friday 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Thursday 1 to 5 p.m.
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• The Peninsula Warrior - Air Force
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DECEMBER 13, 2013
718th Intelligence Squadron welcomes new commander By Staff Sgt. Jarad A. Denton
commanders. While located at Langley, the 718th IS reports to the 940th Operations Group at Beale AFB, Calif. “We also provide fully-qualified system support Airmen to sustain and maintain the robust communications and computer network required to integrate into the DCGS worldwide enterprise,” said Maj. Siphath Champy, 718th IS Information and Communications Flight commander. “We integrate with both regular [component] Air Force and Air National Guard partners.” That integration allows the 718th IS to continuously improve their personnel, equipment and processes while developing the flexibility to adapt to new missions. “We are exposed to a variety of systems,” said a 718th IS cyber-systems operator. “Being knowledgeable on how to maintain, administer and troubleshoot them ensures I am serving my purpose as a reservist by being willing and able to step up and accurately execute any task when called upon.”
633RD AIR BASE WING PUBLIC AFFAIRS
Courtesy photo
U.S Air Force Lt. Col. Joshua Redden, right, 718th Intelligence Squadron commander, receives the squadron guidon from Col. Douglas Drakeley, 655th Intelligence Surveillance and Reconnaissance Group commander, during an assumption of command ceremony at Langley Air Force Base, Dec. 6. The mission of the 718th IS is to provide combat mission-ready intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance command and control, signal intelligence mission management and all-source analysts who process, exploit and disseminate ISR data, in support of the Distributed Common Ground System weapon system and combatant commanders.
The 718th Intelligence Squadron welcomed a new commander during a ceremony at Langley Air Force Base, Dec. 6. U.S. Air Force Lt. Col. Joshua Redden assumed command during the ceremony. Col. Douglas Drakeley, 655th Intelligence Surveillance and Reconnaissance Group commander, presided over the ceremony. Redden shared his vision for the squadron with Airmen of the 718th IS. “My focus will be to make sure Airmen are taken care of, have a sense of belonging and feel like a real family,” said Redden. “We will also ensure our Airmen are properly trained to handle the mission.” The 718th IS’ mission is to provide combat mission-ready ISR command and control, signals intelligence mission management and all-source analysts who process, exploit and disseminate ISR data, in support of the Distributed Common Ground System weapon system and combatant
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• The Peninsula Warrior - Air Force
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U.S. Air Force Lt. Col. Jaime McGown, right, 63rd Intelligence Squadron commander, receives the squadron guidon from Col. Douglas Drakeley, 655th Intelligence Surveillance and Reconnaissance Group commander, during an activation ceremony at Langley Air Force Base, Dec. 6.The 63rd IS reports to the 480th ISR Wing and 497th ISR Group, who operate the Distributed Ground Station – One. Courtesy photo
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• The Peninsula Warrior - Air Force
•
DECEMBER 13, 2013
DECEMBER 13, 2013
• The Peninsula Warrior - Air Force
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Photos by Staff Sgt. Ciara Wymbs
Christopher and Valeria York, ages 10 and 8, children of U.S. Army Spc. Brandon York, 690th Rapid Port Opening Element truck driver, visit with Santa Claus during the annual Christmas tree lighting ceremony at Fort Eustis Dec. 6. After visiting Santa, families made Christmas tree decorations at designated stations.
U.S. Army Maj. Gen. Ross Ridge, left, Inittial Military Training commanding general, and Col. William Galbraith, right, 733rd Mission Support Group com mmander, join Christopher York, bottom left front, 10, son of Spc. BrandonYork, 690th Rapid Port Opening Elem ment truck driver, to ceremonially light the Christmas tree at Fort Eustis. LEFT: Members of the Denbigh High School vocal ensemble perform holiday songs during the Christmas tree-lighting ceremony at Fort Eustis. RIGHT: U.S. Army Maj. Gen. Ross Ridge, Initial Military Training Center of Excellence deputy commanding general, addresses the crowd. Attendees sing Christmas carols with U.S. Army Training and Doctrine Command Band during the Christmas tree lighting ceremony.
The Fort Eustis Girl Scouts perform “Jingle Bells� and “We Wish You a Merry Christmas� for event attendees.
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DECEMBER 13, 2013
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• The Peninsula Warrior - Air Force
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With the holiday season upon us, U.S. Air Force Airmen may decide to seek off-duty employment to earn extra money for gifts, vacations or other holiday-related items or activities. Airmen who choose to seek offduty employment should be aware of the rules and requirements set in place to not jeopardize their military career. “Off-duty employment requirements exist to ensure Airmen are being safe,â€? said Tech. Sgt. Stephanie Eversley, 633rd Air Base Wing Judge Advocate General Law noncommissioned ofďŹ cer in charge. “It’s to ensure Airmen are not over-working themselves and are not doing high-risk activities, especially if they don’t have the proper training.â€? Eversley said Airmen need to consider a few factors before seeking off-duty employment, including appropriately representing the Air Force and time management. “The biggest factor is if they can handle it and if the mission can handle it,â€? said Eversley. “It also cannot put the Air Force in a poor light. For example, a senior noncommissioned ofďŹ cer participating in a pageant where his or her body is overexposed is inappropriate.â€? Senior Master Sgt. Derek Hughes, 633rd Logistics Readiness Squadron ďŹ rst sergeant, explained Airmen should remember the Air Force takes precedence when seeking offduty employment. “We need to be sure our Airmen are not working in an environment that could bring discredit to themselves or to the Air Force,â€? said Hughes. “Airmen need to understand the needs of the Air Force come ďŹ rst. As employees of the Air Force, there are limitations on who we can work for while off-duty.â€? Due to conict of interest rules, Airmen are not allowed to work for any ďŹ rm or entity that is engaged in or is attempting to engage in business transactions of any sort with an agen-
Photo illustration by Airman Areca T. Wilson
Airmen who choose to seek off-duty employment during the holiday season should be aware of the rules and requirements set in place to not jeopardize their military career.
“We need to be sure our Airmen are not working in an environment that could bring discredit to themselves or to the Air Force. Airmen need to understand the needs of the Air Force come ďŹ rst.â€? – Senior Master Sgt. Derek Hughes 633rd Logistics Readiness Squadron ďŹ rst sergeant cy of the Department of Defense. Additionally, Hughes suggested Airmen should review DOD Regulation 5500.7-R, Joint Ethics Regulation Sections 2-206a, 2-303, 3-304 before seeking off-duty employment, and discuss with their immediate supervisor before completing the AF Form 3092, Application for Approval for OffDuty Employment. The form is then routed through his or her supervisor, the base legal ofďŹ ce and the member’s commander for approval. According to Eversley, when ďŹ lling out AF Form 3092, speciďŹ city is key in order for the Air Force to fully understand what activity Airmen decide to partake in. “Airmen have to be speciďŹ c on what job they will be doing, and can no longer state ‘self-employment’
when seeking approval for off-duty employment,â€? said Eversley. “‘Selfemployment’ does not give the Air Force information to deem whether or not a job is inappropriate.â€? Eversley stressed that supervisors discuss the importance of being safe and responsible when speaking to their Airmen. “Supervisors need to speak to their Airmen about conduct,â€? said Eversley. “A job may not be deemed as inappropriate, but Airmen can put themselves in a position where they ďŹ nd themselves in trouble.â€? According to Eversley, Airmen should consider ďŹ nding a workplace that is military friendly. “It is a matter of being exible,â€? said Eversley. “When seeking employment, ďŹ nd someone who is exible and understands military obligations come ďŹ rst.â€? Hughes agreed with Eversley. “Flexibility and understanding on both the part of the Airman and of the employer [is important],â€? said Hughes. “Both need to understand military requirements will come ďŹ rst, including changes in duty hours, recalls and deployments.â€? For more information on off-duty employment requirements, refer to DOD 5500.7-R, Air Force Instruction 44-102, Medical Care Management, or contact your ďŹ rst sergeant.
DECEMBER 13, 2013
• The Peninsula Warrior - Air Force
6HUYLFH VSRWOLJKW 7KH )RUW (XVWLV &OXE
The Fort Eustis Club, located at 2123 Pershing Ave., serves active-duty Service members, retirees, family members and Department of Defense contractors.With the special-event office open seven days a week, the Fort Eustis Club offers many amenities including a lunch buffetTuesday through Friday, retirement ceremonies and unit parties and promotions. Additionally, the club also caters non-military events like weddings, anniversaries, birthdays and private holiday parties. The club will host “Breakfast with Santa” Dec. 14 at 9 a.m., a special viewing party for the Army-Navy college football game Dec. 14, and a New Year’s Eve party Dec. 31.The Fort Eustis Club is open Monday throughThursday from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., and Friday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. For more information, call 878-5700.
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• The Peninsula Warrior - Air Force
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DECEMBER 13, 2013
480th wins AFDW mission support awards By Marge McGlinn 480TH INTELLIGENCE, SURVEILLANCE AND RECONNAISSANCE WING
The 480th Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance Wing was recently honored by the Air Force District of Washington for having the best Manpower and Organization team in 2013. The award recognizes major achievements, innovative ideas, management practices and customer focus within the manpower ofďŹ ce. According to the award submission, the section created hundreds of new billets, realigned another 700 and managed roughly 6,000 positions for 40 groups, squadrons, detachments and operating locations overall. “We are elated to be recognized as the Air Force District of Washington’s Manpower and Organization Program of the Year,â€? said Ed Banaszek, 480th ISR Wing chief of Manpower and Organization. “It is truly an honor to represent the wing alongside those competing for the Headquarters Air Force annual awards.â€? Because of the global nature of the wing and the different missions each group performs, the manpower team focuses on customers by personally briefing each new commander on how his or her unit is organized to support their mission and the manpower resources available to conduct that mission. “Our global ISR mission is unique and
Photo by Marge McGlinn
From left, U.S. Air Force Tech. Sgt. Shaun Duffy, Ed Banaszek, Master Sgt. Rhonda Knipmeyer and Master Sgt. Russell Niebuhr, members of the 480th Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance Wing’s Manpower and Organization OfďŹ ce, were recognized by the Air Force District of Washington as having the best program in 2013. In addition to winning the manpower award, Knipmeyer also won the General Billy J. Boles Mentorship Award for leadership skills.
challenging,� said Banaszek. “ISR operations are fast-paced and ever-changing, driving the wing to align its manpower resources with the current operational climate. “I’m extremely proud of my team; they bring their very best each and every day,� added Banaszek. Not only did the wing earn recognition
for its outstanding Manpower and Organization Program, but a member of the manpower team earned the General Billy J. Boles Mentorship Award for leadership and guidance. Master Sgt. Rhonda Knipmeyer, Mission Support superintendent, was recognized for her mentoring ability and
leadership skills while assigned to the Manpower and Organization OfďŹ ce. ‘I am extremely honored to be the AFDW nominee for the Boles Mentorship Award,â€? said Knipmeyer. “Mentorship plays a huge [role in] growing both personally and professionally. We all learn from each other.â€? Knipmeyer said she is also appreciative of the recognition the entire Manpower and Organization team received. “I am so proud to be a part of this amazing manpower ofďŹ ce and mission support team,â€? she said. “We have an outstanding group of dedicated people, who not only get the job done, but more importantly, are family to each other.â€? She said she is looking forward to competing at the Air Force-level, but realizes none of the accolades she and the Manpower and Organization OfďŹ ce received could have been possible without the help from everyone in the wing. “None of this would be possible if it was not for the entire 480th Wing and all support given to us each and every day,â€? she said. Debra Locke, chief of Mission Support, said the entire Mission Support OfďŹ ce is proud of their co-workers. “The entire ofďŹ ce is extremely proud of Master Sgt. Knipmeyer and the Manpower and Organization team,â€? she said. “To earn AFDW-level recognition is a testament to their hard work and dedication. I continue to be amazed at their talent and skill.â€?
The Air Force District of Washington’s Manpower and Organization Program of the Year award recognizes major achievements, innovative ideas, management practices and customer focus within the manpower ofďŹ ce. The 480th Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance Wing created hundreds of new billets, realigned another 700 and managed roughly 6,000 positions for 40 groups, squadrons, detachments and operating locations overall.
DECEMBER 13, 2013
• The Peninsula Warrior - Air Force
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Photo by Senior Airman Connor Estes
U.S. Air Force Lt. Col. Brian Mueller assumed command of the 42nd Intelligence Squadron from Col. Douglas Drakeley, 655th Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance Group commander, during an activation and assumption of command ceremony at the Eaglewood Golf Course at Langley Air Force Base, Dec. 7. The 42nd IS mission is to support current operations and contingency planning by providing targeting-focused products.
42nd Intelligence Squadron activated at Langley AFB By Senior Airman Connor Estes 633RD AIR BASE WING PUBLIC AFFAIRS
U.S. Air Force Lt. Col. Brian Mueller assumed command of the 42nd Intelligence Squadron during an activation and assumption of command ceremony at the Eaglewood Golf Course at Langley Air Force Base, Dec. 7. The 42nd IS mission is to support current operations and contingency planning by providing targeting-focused products to the 36th Intelligence Squadron and Air Force Targeting Center at Joint Base Langley-Eustis. The reserve unit is part of the 655th Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance Group at Wright-Patterson AFB, Ohio. The squadron can trace its lineage to the 42nd Photo Lab, which was activated on Sept. 2, 1945, at Smokey Hill Army Airfield, Kan., as part of the 456th Bombardment Group’s conversion plan for the invasion of Japan. The 42nd Photo Lab was then inactivated Oct. 8, 1948, when the invasion was cancelled, and now it has been re-designated as the 42nd IS. After giving a brief history of the 42nd
The 42nd IS mission is to support current operations and contingency planning by providing targeting-focused products to the 36th Intelligence Squadron and Air Force Targeting Center at Joint Base Langley-Eustis. IS, Mueller thanked the Airmen under his command for their dedication and commitment to the unit. “I appreciate all the sacrifices our members make,” said Mueller. “They have civilian jobs, but come in on the weekends to ensure targeting missions are met.” Col. Douglas Drakeley, 655th ISR Group commander, officiated the ceremony and said he was confident in his decision to give command of the 42nd IS to Mueller. “I absolutely know Lt. Col. Mueller is the right person for this job because of his background in targeting and joint operations,” said Drakeley.
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• The Peninsula Warrior - Air Force
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DECEMBER 13, 2013
Call to action: Preparing for a short-notice deployment By Staff Sgt. Stephanie R. Plichta 633RD AIR BASE WING PUBLIC AFFAIRS
The U.S. Air Force requires Airmen to be ready and qualiďŹ ed for deployment at any given time. When it is time to deploy, preparation may seem challenging with the many requirements on an out-processing checklist. If deployment requirements aren’t stressful enough, Airmen who receive a short-notice deployment tasking must complete the same checklist in only a fraction of the time, which ranges from 72 hours to 30 days. Michael Pascucci, 633rd Logistics Readiness Squadron installation deployment ofďŹ cer, manages all deployment taskings for Langley Air Force Base. “Short-notice [deployment] taskings usually come from one of two scenarios: emergent requirements or last minute disqualiďŹ ers,â€? said Pascucci. Emergent requirements are recent requirements developed for the area of responsibility, and the tasking needs to be ďŹ lled as soon as possible. Last-minute disqualiďŹ ers are caused when an Airman originally tasked to deploy is disqualiďŹ ed. Pascucci recommended Service members maintain a positive attitude throughout the deployment process. “Taskings are not meant to disrupt or inconvenience [anyone]; sometimes it just happens,â€? said Pascucci. “Additionally, every individual needs to know
Photo by Staff Sgt. Dana D. Flamer
Airmen with the 27th Fighter Squadron are greeted by leadership, friends and fellow Airmen at Langley Air Force Base, Oct. 23, following a six-month deployment to Kadena Air Base, Japan. With proper planning and preparation, procedures are in place for Service members to deploy in a short amount of time.
when they are [eligible] for a tasking.â€? Pascucci advised Airmen to visit their unit deployment manager ďŹ rst and create a plan. “Knowing the UDM and being prepared to deploy will reduce [stress] when a shortnotice tasking falls,â€? said Pascucci. While UDM’s should be one of an Airman’s ďŹ rst stops when preparing to deploy, there are other individuals who can assist in the deployment process. Master Sgt. Scott Bender, 1st Maintenance Squadron ďŹ rst sergeant, has experi-
enced short-notice taskings and offers advice to ďŹ rst-time deployers. “You never know when you will be called to action to support and defend the United States,â€? said Bender. “You must be ready to focus on the task you are asked to do, so take care of your family needs before you leave. [That way], when you arrive at your deployment location, you will be ready to focus on the mission.â€? While ďŹ rst sergeants may be one of many individuals offering advice, the Air Force has created programs speciďŹ cally to aid
Airmen throughout the deployment process. The Airman and Family Readiness Center is available for all Airmen preparing to deploy and offers multiple programs before, during and after deployment. Master Sgt. Dawn Chapman, 633rd Force Support Squadron readiness noncommissioned ofďŹ cer, provides a mandatory predeployment brieďŹ ng for Langley Airmen. “We’re here to help Airmen and families through the deployment process,â€? said Chapman. “With conďŹ rmation from a UDM that [someone] has received a shortnotice deployment, we will make sure [they] receive their out-processing brieďŹ ng quickly in order to deploy on time.â€? Chapman aids Airmen and their families from the moment they receive their notiďŹ cation up to six months after they have returned though programs such as PLAYpass, Hearts Apart, Returning Home Care and many others. “If I could offer just one piece of advice, it would be to make a plan,â€? said Chapman. “Taking an hour to read through the UDM checklist could save an individual a lot of frustration.â€? With proper planning and preparation, procedures are in place for Service members to deploy in a short amount of time. Airmen may use multiple agencies to aid them during a short-notice tasking, which can lead to smoother out-processing. For more information about deployments, Airmen should contact their unit UDM. For additional information about
,07 75$'2& 6ROGLHUV VSHDN WR VFKRRO VWXGHQWV From left, U.S. Army Sgt. 1st Class David Stover II, Spc. Frankie Wright and Sgt. 1st Class Ryan McCaffrey explain to ďŹ rst and third graders how uniform ribbons and insignia are earned during a “Salute to Veteransâ€? tribute at Grafton Bethel Elementary School, in Yorktown, Dec. 6. The Soldiers performed as the color guard during an assembly in the school’s cafeteria and the Soldiers discussed how their personal military experiences included humanitarian assistance following the ceremony. Stover and McCaffrey are the U.S. Army Drill Sergeants of the Year, stationed at Army Initial Military Training at Fort Eustis. Wright is assigned to Army Training and Doctrine Command Headquarters and Headquarters Company at Fort Eustis. Photo by Stephanie Slater
DECEMBER 13, 2013
• The Peninsula Warrior - Air Force
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5XQQHU¶V KLJK $LUPDQ WUDLQV IRU µ5DFH µ5RXQG WKH %DVH¶ By Staff Sgt. Jarad A. Denton 633RD AIR BASE WING PUBLIC AFFAIRS
As she exhaled, the moisture in her breath mixed with the cold outdoor air and turned into a quickly-dissipating fog. The cold didn’t bother her. This weather was the perfect training ground for U.S. Air Force Maj. Carrie Wentzel, 633rd Force Support Squadron operations officer, to prepare for her next running challenge: the 10-mile race around Langley Air Force Base. The fourth annual Langley “Race ‘Round the Base” is scheduled for 9 a.m. , Dec. 14., beginning by the West Gate and ending at the Shellbank Fitness Center. The event is the longest distance-running event hosted on Langley. Wentzell finished her five-mile preparation run on the track just shy of 40 minutes. She stretched and walked back to Shellbank, ready to hit the pavement for the 10mile race. Wentzell’s dedication to running has taken her to new pinnacles of personal fitness, leading from one race to the next. As she began her five-mile training run on the track
at Langley in preparation for the “Race ‘Round the Base,” Wentzel said she wasn’t always so passionate about the sport. “Growing up, I was never really into running,” said Wentzel. “I had to train for the mile-and-a-half when I came in theAir Force.” Wentzell said her first long-distance run came early in her career when she competed in the U.S. Army Ten-Miler in Washington, D.C. Until that point, the longest distance she had run was three miles. “It was slow, but it was awesome,” Wentzel said. “I was hooked on running after that. I couldn’t believe I just ran 10 miles without stopping,’” she said. “It made me want to run farther and set different goals for myself.” Those goals have taken her to various marathons across the country, including the Boston Marathon, twice. Wentzel said each time a run starts, she chases after the elusive “runner’s high.” “For me, the ‘runner’s high’ is when nothing hurts and I’m not out of breath anymore,” Wentzel said. “I have so much energy, and I feel like I could run for miles.” Wentzell said having a competitive spir-
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it throughout a race helps to find her “runner’s high.” Even though she isn’t looking to take home trophies or awards, Wentzell said she is going to challenge herself and her fellow runners. “It’s a pride thing,” she said with a laugh. “Even though I get pretty competitive, I think the important part of any run is to not beat yourself up. There are good runs and bad runs – you just have to go with it.” Wentzell said sometimes runs have circumstances beyond a runner’s control. For Wentzel, her first time running the Boston Marathon was during a nor’easter. “For 26.2 miles, we ran into a monsoon with a 25 mile-an-hour headwind,” she said. “It was awesome.” Fortunately, the “Race ‘Round the Base” will be run on a flat course looping around Langley, with all the miles marked. While Wentzel is hoping for fair weather, she said she is prepared for almost anything as she gears up for the Dec. 14 race. Although registration for the race is now closed, runners can pick up packets at Shellbank during normal business hours beginning Dec. 11.
Photo by Staff Sgt. Jarad A. Denton
U.S.Air Force Maj. CarrieWentzel, 633rd Force Support Squadron operations officer, finishes lap 16 of a five-mile run on the outdoor track at Langley Air Force Base, Nov. 26.Throughout her Air Force career,Wentzell has competed in distance races across the world.
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• The Peninsula Warrior - Air Force
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DECEMBER 13, 2013
DeployedFeature
(XVWLV 6ROGLHU WHDFKHV $IJKDQ SROLFH µ/'56+,3¶ reasons unit morale was low when he arrived. “[The leave program] really reduced the amount of people who dropped from their roles in the policeman program,” said Carino. “The program actually improved the rate of workers staying in the program.” With more policemen coming to work, the battalion was able to effectively begin carrying out its duties without interruption.
By Staff Sgt. Ashley Hawkins 633RD AIR BASE WING PUBLIC AFFAIRS
There have been approximately 100,000 U.S. Service members deployed to Afghanistan annually since 2010, and numbers are steadily declining according to the Department of Defense. As American forces continue to pull out of the country, training Afghan security forces to successfully take control is more important than ever. U.S. Army 1st Lt. Alfredo Carino and his team, Stability Transition Team Six, helped the Afghans transition by instituting the Army values of ‘LDRSHIP’ into their training. When the 510th Human Resources Company plans and operations officer deployed from Fort Eustis as a human resources advisor to the Afghan National Civil Order Police in 2012, he saw his deployment as a chance to make a difference – but he said he underestimated the task ahead of him. Carino joined a team of roughly 12 U.S. Army and Navy personnel, four embedded U.S. civilian police mentors and four Afghan interpreters at Forward Operating Base Airborne in Wardak Province, Afghanistan. Because the previous unit returned to the U.S. without leaving replacements, the team drew down to five Army personnel four months later and was responsible for mentoring a battalion of 500 Afghan policemen. With little to no continuity, STT6 had mentor the battalion with only the knowledge from their day-to-day work experiences. “Before I got there, there was no human resource officer there mentoring the ANCOP, so I was the first,” said Carino. “The working conditions were bad because we had no guidance, so we had to create our own goals for the Afghan police. We didn’t know exactly what we were supposed to do.” Luckily, Carino knows what it takes to become a top-notch Soldier. As a prior enlisted Soldier, then-sergeant Carino decided to commission as an officer in 2008. Carino, a native of Puerto Rico, started from rebuild an entire independent battalion – all in another language. “It was challenging because of all the cultural differences, and it was always
Respect
Courtesy photo
U.S.Army 1st Lt.Alfredo Carino, right, 510th Human Resources Company plans and operations officer, discusses checkpoint procedures with an Afghan National Civil Order Police platoon sergeant, center, inWardak Province,Afghanistan in 2012. Carino and his team assisted theANCOP in establishing and maintaining 13 checkpoints on the Wardak’s section of Afghanistan’s Highway One, which is the main road that connectsWardak to other areas of Afghanistan.
one-on-one,” he said. “It all had to be in Dari and I needed a translator. I also had to observe for a minute, see what they required and come up with my own set of things that I could help them with.” The lieutenant saw the opportunity to incorporate Army values in his mentoring sessions to help the ANCOP understand what it means to serve. While introducing the values in his training, Carino and his team knew to establish trust, they had to lead by example.
Loyalty The team’s main priority was to create tools the ANCOP would need to grow as an independent unit. Determined to set the foundation, Carino dug in. “The first thing I did was figure out what they were lacking,” he said. “I was able to build my own classroom environment for their human resources [specialist]. He [picked it] quickly. Then I went from there and established an attack plan to make the battalion better.” Carino said his loyalty to the ANCOP was a reflection of his loyalty to the Army, the service he has been dedicated to for more than 21 years.
Duty Carino said he felt a responsibility to get the battalion where they needed to be, and do whatever it took to make them better. “I kept finding things to do. If there was nothing else to do, I came up with something else,” he said. “That’s what I was always thinking about. I went there with the mentality that I wanted to leave that [place] better than it was when I took over.” Sgt. Brandon Jones, Detachment 1 Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 2-151 Infantry Battalion fire support specialist and STT-6’s noncommissioned officer in charge, also believed the ANCOP was first priority. “I was determined to get the mission done,” he said. Although some days were long and tiresome, Carino said other days they were able to push on to provide the best tools for the ANCOP. The first human resources tool Carino instituted was a leave system, allowing ANCOP members to take a break from work when overwhelmed. According to Carino, fatigue was one of the main
The second tool Carino and STT-6 established was an award system to recognize the Afghan policemen’s dedication. “I constantly stressed to the commander the importance of rewarding his people for what they did,” he said. “After that, because of the all work we did with them, we began to gain the Afghans’ respect.” Jones said he felt the new-found recognition gave STT-6 the ANCOP’s seal of approval. “I believe they really respected us and learned a lot from the information we gave them,” said Jones. “We put forth an amazing effort to train them and they appreciated our commitment and devotion.” Once the team established respect, they began building a lasting relationship with the battalion. A few months into the deployment, the ANCOP’s mission changed, - and so did STT-6’s mission.
Selfless service In addition to providing security within the Wardak Province, which Carino said is arguably the most dangerous province in Afghanistan, the ANCOP was tasked to establish 13 checkpoints on Highway One, the main road that connects Wardak to the rest of Afghanistan. “We did more than 150 combat patrols, [going] out at least three times a week to inspect their checkpoints,” said Carino. “We took indirect small arms and rocket fire all the time. That helped us build a good relationship [with the ANCOP] because it showed we were not scared to go out there and actually be with them [during combat].” SEE LDRSHIP PAGE 25
DECEMBER 13, 2013
LDRSHIP FROM PAGE 24 Carino said the team’s service brought drastic improvements within the ANCOP, but for him, the unit’s progression ran deeper.
Honor According to Carino, the most important value to is honor. “An honorable person will always do the right thing and they will be loyal,” he said. “[Honor] kind of puts all the Army values together, and it’s important to have those values in place. Any time I’m going to make a decision that involves any of those values, it helps me to make better decisions.” Establishing morale systems to improve the ANCOP’s performance was one of STT-6’s more effective decisions, which according to Carino, boosted confidence. He said providing weekly guidance on how well their checkpoints and security were set up was vital, said Carino. STT-6 interacted with the policemen to gauge morale. “Their improvement was 180 degrees,” Carino said.
Integrity While making sure the unit was taken care of, Carino worked closely with the ANCOP’s logistics advisor. According to Carino, because of corruption in Afghanistan, working in logistics is a desirable position. Carino decided to do one-on-one sessions to help the advisor understand Army values to steer him in the right direction. “I was trying to instill our values in the logistics [advisor] to [teach] him to not steal without actually saying it,” said Carino. “I think his work performance improved quite a bit after that. We always did the right thing and always took care of business, no matter how long it took.” While correcting issues, Carino also had challenges of his own to overcome.
Personal courage Approximately three weeks after he arrived in Afghanistan, Carino witnessed a rocket attack that landed less than 50 feet from where he was standing. “It didn’t [affect] me right away, but later in the day I [thought], ‘Oh my God that was close,’” he said. “It was
• The Peninsula Warrior - Air Force
the first time I’d ever taken indirect fire that close. It was shocking. The adrenaline goes up, so you’re always paying attention to your surroundings.” Along with the attacks on his Forward Operating Base, Carino also struggled with being away from his wife and two sons for a second deployment. “I went through some mental troubles and tribulations. I would say ‘I can’t believe I’m going through this,’” he said. “I just got engaged with my work and tried to keep myself busy all the time and went to the gym a lot. Staying engaged actually got me through.”
The outcome “They say adversity brings people together,” said Carino. “Our small team had to work harder, but we got more accomplished. We went through some adversity with only five of us, but I believe our team of five accomplished more than a team of 13, and in less time.” Jones shared the same beliefs. “When we dropped down to a fiveman team and everyone’s work load doubled, there was a lot of work to be done,” he said. “Just like any deployment, we had our ups and downs. I relied on [my team] to get through.” Reflecting on the experience, Carino believes STT-6’s dedication played a key role in ANCOP’s improvement. “It was a team effort. We worked together, we did it well and everyone fulfilled their role,” he said. “It felt so good; it was like a victory. We legitimately cared about our people.” While building a better battalion was the goal, Jones said he also wanted what was best for the unit. “I take pride in my work and I always try to do my absolute best in everything that I take on,” he said. “I can only hope that I left a great impression on the unit and that they will remember me.” Loyalty, duty, respect, selfless service, honor, integrity and personal courage are all more than a set of words created to instill discipline in Soldiers. “LDRSHIP” is a way of life Carino his team proved is not only a way to become better U.S. Soldiers, but a standard of living that taught 500 members of an Afghan battalion the importance of helping to rebuild a nation.
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HolidayHappenings
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Photos by Airman Areca T. Wilson
Santa visits with Jackson Cooper, top left, son of U.S. Air Force Maj. Christopher Cooper, Air Combat Command Headquarters Directorate of Plans, Programs and Requirements chief of command and control, Madison Gallant, bottom left, daughter of Master Sgt. Erine Gallant, 633rd Medical Group Aerospace Medical Service functional manager, and Ari, right, son of Tech. Sgt. Angela, 45th Intelligence Squadron intelligence analyst (Last name withheld for security reasons).
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U.S. Army Pvt. Nicholas Steele, 1st Battalion, 222nd Aviation Regiment Advanced Individual Training student, secures a Christmas tree to a dependent’s vehicle during the annual “Trees for Troops� event at Fort Eustis, Dec. 11.
U.S. Air Force Master Sgt. Mindy Masse, left, and Tech. Sgt. Mikayle Dupree, Air Combat Command Operations Division, select Christmas trees. Service members and dependents were eligible to receive a free tree on a ďŹ rst-come, ďŹ rst-served basis.
Photos by Staff Sgt. Ashley Hawkins
DECEMBER 13, 2013
• The Peninsula Warrior - Air Force
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(YHU\RQH KDV D VWRU\ 6WULSHV DQG EDUV WRJHWKHU By Staff Sgt. Jarad A. Denton 633RD AIR BASE WING PUBLIC AFFAIRS
“In a lot of ways, we’re the exact same person,” said U.S. Air Force Capt. Candace Lucas, Air Combat Command Commander’s Action Group strategic communication lead, as she smiled at her husband. “We have always had this ability to make each other laugh.” Chief Master Sgt. James Lucas, 633rd Mission Support Group superintendent, smiled back at the woman who has been his companion during the challenges, struggles and triumphs that come from being a couple with one enlisted and one commissioned spouse. Together, their relationship has endured on a foundation of mutual trust, respect and understanding. The couple met in 2003 while on assignment in Korea. After exchanging glances on the plane and bumping into each other at in-processing areas, the young enlisted Airmen first spoke in the elevator at the hotel where they were staying. “She was following me,” James said, as his wife shook her head in disagreement. “She has such a big heart. She cares a lot and gives so much of herself without holding back. When we met I could tell right away that she was someone I wanted to be with.” From the instant they met, James and Candace felt a mutual respect and understanding for one another that continues to this day. “We know each other really well,” James said. “We know where each other came from and respect one another.” After a brief conversation in the elevator, the two quickly became friends. They dated throughout the tour, falling deeper in love. However, facing separate assignments after their time in Korea, the couple was forced to make a difficult decision regarding their relationship. “You hear stories of people getting married too quickly, and then it doesn’t work out,” Candace said. “We were cautious to jump into a marriage.” So they waited, staying in touch and remaining friends. On a return from deployment in 2005, James found himself passing through Ramstein Air Base, Germany – where Candace was stationed. After taking leave and spending a few weeks togeth-
er, both realized their lives needed to continue down the same path. They married that same year. “We applied for a join spouse assignment and were both disapproved,” James said. “We had to make a decision. Either we were going to be locked in for two more years with no guarantee of being together afterward, or look for another way.” Candace, who was working and going to school full-time, decided to separate from the military and pursue her degree, while living with James at Elmendorf Air Force Base, Alaska. “Even now I’m still shocked I made the decision to separate,” Candace said. “It was such a big risk, but I always knew I wanted to finish school and then commission.” Making school a priority, Candace said she attacked her classes tenaciously. She even motivated James to attend college. “I wanted to spend as much time with her as I could. I started going back to school,” James said. “We actually graduated in the same class.” With degrees in hand, the Lucas’ began thinking about their future, along with dreams of Candace commissioning. After living together in Alaska for only three months, James received orders to Ramstein. The couple said the years spent in Germany were among the best, as they planned to grow their family. In 2008, the Lucas family welcomed their son, Blake, into the world. Parenting was a new frontier for James and Candace. Neither had very much experience with children prior to Blake’s birth. “We decided in all our infinite wisdom that we didn’t need to take any classes, or do anything to prepare,” Candace said, sarcastically. “I read one book on childcare and figured I was ready for anything.” James laughed and agreed with his wife about their venture into the new horizon of parenthood. “I had held a baby one time, so I figured I was ready,” James joked.
Photo by Staff Sgt. Jarad A. Denton
U.S. Air Force Chief Master Sgt. James Lucas, 633rd Mission Support Group superintendent, and his wife, Capt. Candace Lucas, Air Combat Command Commander’s Action Group strategic communication lead, have faced challenges as a couple with one enlisted and one commissioned spouse.The couple said they base their strong marriage and successful career on a foundation of mutual trust, respect and understanding.
Candace said the only sound she could hear after Blake was born was laughter coming from the other side of the delivery room where James was putting a diaper on Blake. “He had put the diaper on inside out and upside down,” Candace said. “It was crazy, and I was so afraid we would mess up. Thankfully my mom was there to help us through everything.” However, before Blake was even 1 year old, James was called to deploy to Iraq for nine months. The entire time, James said he was worried what the impact of his absence would have on his son. “We didn’t get to Skype a whole lot; it was kind of a rough period,” James said. “I was worried he wouldn’t even recognize me when I got back, but he just accepted me right away.” Even though Blake was still very young, he welcomed his father home as if no time had passed. With their family whole once more, James tested for chief master sergeant and Candace applied for her commission. In 2010, the new chief and soon-to-be Air Force officer were assigned to Langley Air Force Base. Candace said she was able to use her
“We have so many amazing opportunities, and such a great life. Every day I am thankful for what the Air Force has done for me.” — U.S. Air Force Capt. Candace Lucas Air Combat Command Commander’s Action Group strategic communication lead
experiences as an enlisted Airman and military spouse to enhance her new career as an officer. “She has been affiliated with the Air Force in every imaginable way,” James said. “I think that’s why she connects so well with Airmen. She knows what it’s like to be a spouse, a noncommissioned officer and now an officer, on top of being a wife and a mother.” With such an array of skills, both James and Candace agreed they help one another grow both personally and professionally. “I receive daily ‘chief mentoring,’” Candace said, smiling. “It really is helpful. I can take the insight he shares with me and pass it along to the people I work with.” Candace proudly admitted her husband’s advice has taught her to fully appreciate everything the Air Force has done for their family. “We have so many amazing opportunities, and such a great life,” she said. “Every day I am thankful for what the Air Force has done for me.” Looking back, James agreed the benefits and opportunities are amazing, but the road his family travels is what truly matters. “Who we are is defined by the journey we’ve taken,” James said. “It hasn’t always been easy, and we’ve had our bumps along the way, but we always come back to our center.” James and Candace both agree whatever challenges the future may hold, they are ready to tackle them together with trust, understanding and love always by their side.
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• The Peninsula Warrior - Air Force
LAFBCommunity
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DECEMBER 13, 2013
Submit LAFB Community announcements to pw@militarynews.com
King Street construction Traffic flow outside the King Street Gate at Langley Air Force Base will change due to continuation of the city of Hampton’s North King Street Corridor Improvement Project. For the safety of the workers and the public, one lane in each direction will be closed while installation of a center lane and sewer improvements occur, and the improvements are estimated to take four months to complete. Commuters are advised to follow the work signs, drive slowly and consider taking an alternate route if possible.
Langley African American Heritage Council Military Order of the Purple Heart luncheon The Military Order of the Purple Heart Chapter 607 will hold a holiday-season luncheon at Ginny’s Buffet Restaurant at 4724 George Washington Memorial Highway in Yorktown at noon Dec. 14. Membership in the MOPH is open to Purple Heart recipients and associate membership is available to immediate family members of a living or deceased recipients. For more information, call Robert Fairchild at 723-6502 or visit www.purpleheart.org.
Langley Winter Bird Count Langley Air Force Base’s 28th Annual Winter Bird Count will be held at 7:30 a.m. Dec. 14 at the old Tidemill Bridge near the B-52 display parking lot on Nealey Ave., near the LaSalle Avenue Gate. For more information, contact Vic Johnston at 764-2010 or vic.johnston@langley.af.mil.
affects forms filed at the Air Force Personnel CenterTotal Force Service Center. For individuals who began terminal leave before Dec. 1, hard-copy DD Form 214s will still be mailed. For more information, contact Staff Sgt. Darlene Rust at 574-5611 or 1st Lt. Robert Washburn at 574-8598.
2013 ACC HQ Medallion Ceremony
Airmen’s Attic accepting donations
The Air Combat Command headquarters Medallion Ceremony will be held March 7 at 9 a.m. at the Static Display Hangar at Langley Air Force Base. For more information, contact Master Sgt. Christopher McDougal at christopher.mcdougal@us.af.mil or 679-5978.
The Airmen’s Attic is accepting gently used donations. Housewares, kitchen items, linens and clothing are needed, and items such as large couches, mattresses or box springs will not be accepted. The Airman’s Attic will not accept broken furniture. For more information, call 764-1363.
Bateman Library hours of operation Beginning Dec. 16, the Bateman Library’s hours of operation will change to Tuesdays through Thursdays from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. For more information, contact the Bateman Library at 764-2906.
633rd Comptroller Squadron closure The 633rd Comptroller Squadron will close for an official function at 2 p.m. Dec. 20. For emergencies, call 2518931
Discounted tickets and passes Discounted tickets and season passes to local amusement parks are available through Langley Information, Tickets and Tours. For more information, call 764-7176.
Volunteer drivers needed Volunteer drivers are needed to transport disabled veterans to appointments in Richmond and Hampton. A van will be provided for transportation. For more information, contact Richard Moore at 804-815-0730.
Armed Services Blood Program Drive The Armed Services Blood Program will conduct a blood drive at U.S. Air Force Hospital Langley from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Jan. 22. Registration will take place in the first floor atrium located in the main entrance of the hospital. For more information visit www.militaryblood.dod.mil or e-mail Ralph.peters@med.navy.mil.
DD Form 214 hard copy no longer available Copies one and four of the DD Form 214 hard copy are no longer mailed to Service members. The policy only
Langley USO move The Uniformed Services Location of Hampton Roads is moving from their location in the Langley Community Center. A location has yet to be determined, but more information will be released when it becomes available. More information will be released as it becomes available.
Travel vouchers available on MyPay Travel vouchers paid by means other than the Defense Travel System (DTS) will now be available in MyPay. Travelers with MyPay accounts will receive email notification advising the vouchers are available. For more information, call the 633rd Comptroller Squadron Financial Services Office at 764-3333.
Hispanic Heritage committee meetings
The Langley African American Heritage Council meets the third Thursday of each month at 11:30 a.m. in the Enlisted Lounge. For more information, contact Master Sgt. Alvin Harris at 764-4410.
Free financial education seminars The Langley Federal Credit Union will host free financial-education seminars at the Langley Member Education Center in Newport News. The classes include: ■ Tax update seminar – Jan. 16 from 6:30 to 8 p.m. The seminar aims to prepare tax payers for new and changing tax laws. ■ Homeownership seminar – Jan. 25 from 8:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. The seminar will cover credit reports, lenders’ roles, budgeting and managing personal finances, relationship with the real estate agent, home inspection and the closing process. For more information about the seminars or to register, visit www.langleyfcu.org/community/seminars or contact Kitty Simon at 825-7112.
AARP driver safety class AARP will host a drivers safety course at the Langley Member Education Center in Newport News Feb. 3 and 4 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Participants are required to attend both classes. The seminar will cover rules of the road, operating vehicles in challenging environments and adjustments to common, age-related change in vision, hearing and reaction time. This course will cost $12 for AARP members and $14 for nonmembers.
Langley Lanes Bowling Center events Langley Lanes bowling season registration for leagues is currently open. There are four divisions based on age groups for youths at the Saturday Youth Leagues bowl. There are also daily lunch specials for $1.50 per person per game, and participants will receive a $3 shoe rental for purchases over $3 in the Kingpin Kafe. “Open bowling” specials will be held daily. For more information, contact the Langley Lanes Bowling Center at 764-2433.
Shipment of classified cargo
The Hispanic Heritage committee meets the second and fourth Wednesday of each month at 2 p.m. in the Langley bowling alley activities room. For more information, contact Master Sgt. Jose Perez at 764-1735 or the Equal Opportunity Office at 764-5878.
Langley personnel are reminded that in accordance with AFI 24-203, paragraph 5.13.1.3., Transportation Officers (TO) must process all “CLASSIFIED” freight shipments for the base unless the TO establishes other arrangements. For more information, contact Ray Twine at ray.twine@langley.af.mil.
Awana Program
Wednesday Morning Bible Study
Langley Chapel will hold its Awana Program every Wednesday from 6 to 8 p.m. now through May 14, 2014 at the Langley Bethel Family Housing Youth Center at Langley Air Force Base. Children between ages 3 and 18 are invited. The program will offer participants the opportunity to socialize with like-minded peers. For more information, call 764-1070.
Military Ministries sponsors Morning Bible Study from 6:15 to 7:15 a.m. every Wednesday at the Langley Chapel Annex auditorium. A seven-week series, “Heaven,” started Aug. 28. For more information, contact Joe Shirey at 764-5527 or william.shirey.ctr@langley.af.mil, or Chuck Macri at 928-7220 or chuck.macri@militaryministry.org.
DECEMBER 13, 2013
• The Peninsula Warrior - Air Force
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Submit Eustis Community announcements to pw@militarynews.com
Privately-owned weapons range The Fort Eustis privately-owned weapons range is now open at the installation weapons range on Mulberry Island Rd. All participants must complete a range safety class to obtain a Certificate of Competency (AF IMT 483) and register their weapons with the 733rd Security Forces Squadron at 648 Washington Blvd. Range cards can be purchased at the Pines Golf Course Pro Shop at 3518 Mulberry Island Rd. The annual fee is $30 and the facility is open to active-duty Service members, retirees, and Department of Defense civilians and their family members. Authorized users can sponsor one non-affiliated guest. Hours are 8 a.m. to 30 minutes prior to sunset, Monday through Saturday when not in use for mission-essential training. For more information, call 878-2610.
Balfour Beatty Communities ■ Community Yard Sale – Residents can set up items for sale in their front yards from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. Dec. 14.The event will take place rain or shine. ■ Gift wrapping – Bring gift items and wrap them yourselves from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Dec. 17 through 20 at the Community Center. ■ Holiday Coat and Canned Food Drive – BBC staff will be collecting gently used coats and canned goods until Dec. 17. Collection boxes are located in the Community Center. ■ Random Caller Contest – Residents are invited to participate in the Random Caller Contest from 1 to 3 p.m. Dec. 20. Call 369-8335, give your best “ho, ho, ho,” and you could win a holiday ham. The Community Center is located at 126 Madison Ave., and all activities listed above are for BBC residents only. For more information, call 328-0691.
Community Events Council The Joint Base Langley-Eustis Community Events Council will meet from 10 to 11:30 a.m. Dec. 18 at the Fort Eustis Club. The council serves as a communication link to increase awareness for community residents concerning initiatives, programs, activities and facilities. All Soldiers, spouses and civilians are invited to attend. For more information, contact Donna Cloy at 878-3042 or Sharon Rector at 878-3129.
Army Community Service Army Community Service classes and workshops for December will include: ■ Baby and Me Play Group – 10 to 11 a.m. Thursdays at Bldg. 501, Madison Ave. ■ Credit Reporting, Scores and Debt Management – 9 to 10 a.m., Dec. 17. ■ Effective ResumeWriting – 9 a.m. to noon, Dec. 20. ■ Federal Employment – 10 a.m. to noon, Dec. 19. ■ Financial ReadinessTraining – 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., Dec. 20. ■ Job Search Strategies – 10 to 11 a.m. Mondays. ■ Managing Your Checking Account – 8:30 to 9:30 a.m., Dec. 19. Unless otherwise noted, classes and briefings will take place in Bldg. 650, Monroe Ave. For more information, call 878-3638.
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Groninger Library programs ‘Nutcracker Highlights’ The American Youth Ballet Company presents “Nutcracker Highlights” at 7 p.m. Dec. 13 at Jacobs Theater. Admission is free and open to all. To reserve seating for groups of 25 or more, call 878-3329.
Breakfast with Santa Breakfast with Santa will take place from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Dec. 14 at the Fort Eustis Club. The menu will include a waffle station, omelet bar, cereal, beverages, cookies and a chocolate fountain. Prepaid-reservation admission is $8 for children ages 3 to 10, $14 for ages 10 and above, and free for ages 2 and under. Walk-in admission is $10 for children ages 3 to 10, $15 for ages 10 and above, and free for ages 2 and under. For more information, call 878-5700.
Holiday Card Lane Contest The 15th annual Holiday Card Lane Contest is ongoing through Jan. 3 at theTransportation Museum’s fence on Washington Boulevard. All Joint Base Langley-Eustis units, agencies and private organizations are invited to submit entry cards that best symbolize the holiday season. This year’s theme is “Unity in Diversity.” The first place winner will receive a $100 gift certificate, second place will earn $75 and third place will earn $50. An awards ceremony is scheduled for 11 a.m. Dec. 13 at the museum’s auditorium. For more information, call 878-3638.
Fee-free Exchange Layaway The Fort Eustis and Langley Air Force Base Exchanges will waive the $3 processing fee for all layaway purchases through Dec. 24. Shoppers can place computers, laptops, notebooks and tablets on layaway through Dec. 16. A deposit of 15 percent is required to start the layaway process. For more information, visit the customer service desk or call 887-0293 or 766-1282.
DigitalTraining Facility The Fort Eustis Digital Training Facility, in conjunction with the U.S. Army’s Distributed Learning System, provides Soldiers and Department of the Army civilians with local access to web-based, job-related and professional courses away from the workplace or distractions of home. The facility features web-based training, Army E-Learning courses, video tele-training connections to 89 DTF sites worldwide, virtual battlespace computer-based military training, and classrooms for residential training. Walk-ins are welcome to use the facility for official business and individual training, on a space-available basis. The DigitalTraining Facility is located in Hunter Hall at 2730 Madison Ave. Hours are 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., Monday through Friday. For more information, contact Nathan Wortham at nathan.h.wortham2.ctr@mail.mil, call 878-6934 or visit www.dls.army.mil.
The Groninger Library offers free Internet and high-speed Wi-Fi, computers with common access card readers, a video-messaging computer, fax, photocopier, printers, magazines, newspapers, best sellers, classics, audio books, movies on DVD, music on CD, a children’s collection, arts and crafts, study guides, free classes and special events. The library is located at 1313 Washington Blvd. Hours are 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. Monday through Wednesday; noon to 9 p.m. Thursday; and 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Friday through Sunday. For more information, call 878-5017 or visit www.groningerlibrary.com.
Range schedule Ranges, training areas and associated facilities are off limits to personnel not engaged in scheduled firing, operations or inspections unless clearance is obtained (in person) from the Range Control Fire Desk or a designated Range Control technician. The Range Control office telephone number is 878-4412, ext. 226 or 878-3834, ext 234. The range operations schedule through Dec. 18 is: ■ Friday – Range BTRACS, 1, 2, 3 (7 a.m. to 10 p.m.) ■ Saturday and Sunday – No scheduled ranges ■ Monday – Range BTRACS, 1 (8 a.m. to 5 p.m.) ■ Tuesday – Range BTRACS, 1, 2, 3 (8 a.m. to 4 p.m.) ■ Wednesday – Range BTRACS, 1, 5 (7 a.m. to 10 p.m.) All personnel are required to check in and out with Range Control before going into or departing from any range or training area.
Army Career and Alumni Program Army Career and Alumni Program classes and briefings for December will include: ■ Career Expo – 1:30 to 3 p.m., Dec. 18. Employers, college recruiters and other transition service providers are invited to come and network with transitioners and their family members. Job seekers should dress for success and bring resumes. Featured employers will include those in the areas of towing, shipbuilding, law enforcement, power and electricity, and more. Various colleges and universities will also be represented. ■ Lunchtime Workshop – 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., Dec. 18. ACAP and Civilian Personnel Advisory Center staff will provide training on “Social Networking.” For more information and access to handout materials, call 878-4955. ■ VA Claims Workshop – 9 a.m., Dec. 16. This workshop is held the second Monday of each month at 804 Lee Blvd. Unless otherwise noted, classes and briefings will take place at 705 Washington Blvd., suite 71. For more information, call 878-4955.
General Smalls Inn reservations Service members may now reserve rooms for visiting family at the General Smalls Inn on Fort Eustis. Reservations can be made 30 days in advance, and standard rooms have no reservation limit. Family suites may only be reserved up to three days. For more information or to make a reservation, call 9695777 or e-mail generalsmallsinn06@yahoo.com.
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DECEMBER 13, 2013
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‘Santa’s Attic Craft Show’
jamescitycountyva.gov/recreation.
The Hampton Parks and Recreation Department will host a “Santa’s Attic Craft Show” from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Dec. 13 at Hampton City Hall.The event is free and open to the public, and hand-crafted items, unique gifts, and food and beverages will be available for purchase. Enjoy complimentary cider and cookies from 4 to 6 p.m. For more information, call 727-8311.
Peninsula Fine Arts Center
York County holiday events ■ Holiday Farmers Market – 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., Dec. 14. Produce, gifts, wreaths and art will be available for purchase at Riverwalk Landing in historicYorktown. ■ Toyland Parade – 1 to 3 p.m., Dec. 14. Dress in seasonal attire, decorate a stroller or wagon and join the parade as it travels throughout Riverwalk Landing, led by Santa Claus and the Yorktown Fifes and Drums. Other activities will include holiday music, children’s games and crafts, and the Riverwalk Polar Express. Pets are welcome. ■ Parents Shop and Kids Skate – 2 to 6 p.m., Dec. 14. Parents can drop off their children in grades K-5 and shop while kids skate to holiday music at the ”Skate, Rattle and Roll” program, located at Dare Elementary School at 300 Dare Road.The cost is $10 per child, and food and beverages will be available for purchase. ■ Annual Holiday Glow Skate – 6:30 to 11 p.m., Dec. 20. Families can have fun skating to the bobbing lights of glow sticks that will be on sale for $2. Admission is $5 and includes skate rental. Students can rent roller blades for an additional $3. Food and beverages will be available for purchase. For more information about any of these events, call 8903500 or visit online at www.visityorktown.org or www.yorkcounty.gov/parksandrec.
‘A Family Festival of Carols’ The Virginia Choral Society presents “A Family Festival of Carols” holiday concert at the following locations: ■First Baptist Church, Newport News – 3 p.m. Dec. 14 ■Gloria Dei Lutheran Church, Hampton – 3 p.m., Dec. 15 ■Immaculate Conception Catholic Church, – 7:30 p.m., Dec. 20 ■Trinity Lutheran Church, Newport News – 3 p.m., Dec. 21 ■Our Lady of Mt. Carmel Catholic Church, Newport News – 8 p.m., Dec. 22 ■Trinity Lutheran Church, Newport News – 8 p.m., Dec. 23 Tickets purchased in advance are $15 per person and $12 for military, seniors and students. Tickets purchased at the door are $18 per person and $15 for military, seniors and students. Tickets are available at Pro Music and Sound located in the Tabb area of Yorktown, the Peninsula Town Center’s Guest Relations Office in Hampton and from VCS chorus members. Electronic tickets are available at www.vachoralsociety.org. For more information, call the concert hotline at
First Light Celebration The Hampton History Museum will host its sixth annual First Light Celebration from 5 to 6:30 p.m. Dec. 14 at 120 Old Hampton Lane. The free event commemorates the first recorded English Christmas in North America. Family-friendly activities will include musical performances, karaoke caroling, a train display, makeand-take crafts and refreshments. For more information, call 727-1610 or visit www. hampton.gov.
■ Community Day – 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., Dec. 14.The community is invited to create crafts inspired by the “Nature Revealed” exhibition, enjoy a live performance by the “Soundscapes” orchestra, listen to a children’s book reading and more. Admission is free, and there is a $2 art activity fee. ■ Art After 5 – 5:30 to 6:30 p.m., Dec. 19. Local poets will share their works followed by live music from singer-songwriter Ron Fetner. Food and beverages will be available for purchase, and admission is free and open to the public. The Peninsula Fine Arts Center is located at 101 Museum Dr., Newport News. For more information, call 596-8165 or visit www.pfac-va.org.
AAATow to Go Program
851-9114.
AAA Tidewater Virginia’s Tow to Go Program is available through 6 a.m. Jan. 1.The program’s goal is to get the individual and their vehicle home safely during the holiday season. Free towing is provided in the Hampton Roads area for members and non-members. Motorists can call 631-1700 to receive both the free tow and ride home. Reservations are not allowed and service will be provided to the requesting individual only.
Virginia Living Museum
‘A Colonial Christmas’
■ Star of Wonder: Mystery of the Christmas Star – Experience the journey of the Magi at the museum’s digital planetarium theater through Dec. 31. The show will offer an immersive look into the journey of the Magi, while examining the latest clues about the appearance of the Star of Bethlehem. Days and times vary.The cost is $4 in addition to regular museum admission. ■ Laser Holidays – Get into the holiday spirit with music of the season and laser effects through Dec. 31. Enjoy classic holiday favorites including Burl Ives’ “Rudolph the Rednosed Reindeer,” and modern hits like Randy Travis’ “Jingle Bell Rock.” Recommended for ages 6 and above, and days and times vary. The cost is $4 in addition to regular museum admission. The Virginia Living Museum is located at 524 J. Clyde Morris Boulevard in Newport News. Hours are 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Saturday and noon to 5 p.m., Sunday. For more information about Virginia Living Museum events, call 595-9135 or visit www.thevlm.org.
Jamestown Settlement and the Yorktown Victory Center’s “A Colonial Christmas” month-long event explores 17thand 18th-century holiday traditions through Jan. 5. Orientation tours of the museum’s outdoor living-history areas are offered at 11 a.m., 1 p.m. and 3 p.m. daily. Visitors will learn about the Jamestown colony’s early years as well as the English colonists’ Christmas at sea in December 1606. In the re-created fort, visitors can see wattle-and-daub buildings decorated with greenery and demonstrations of fancy cooking. Enjoy 17th-century holiday music at 11:30 a.m. and 3 p.m. Dec. 26-31 at the re-created fort church. At the Yorktown Victory Center’s decorated clapboard farmhouse, historical interpreters will demonstrate a variety of holiday activities including setting a farmhouse table for a holiday feast.Visitors can observe open-hearth cooking in the farm kitchen and take part in candle-dipping activities. Daily performances of 18th-century holiday music will take place at 11:35 a.m. and 3:35 p.m. Dec. 26-31 at the farmhouse. A value-priced combination ticket to both museums is $20.50 for adults and $10.25 for ages 6-12. Admission to Jamestown Settlement is $16 for adults, $7.50 for ages 6-12 and free for children five and younger. Admission to the Yorktown Victory Center is $9.75 for adults, $5.50 for ages 6-12 and free for children five and younger. Both museums are open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily yearround. Jamestown Settlement is located on Route 31, southwest of Williamsburg andYorktown Victory Center is located on Route 1020 inYorktown. For more information, call (888) 593-4628 toll-free, 2534838 or visit www.historyisfun.org.
NewTown holiday ice skating Holiday ice skating is available through Jan. 26 at New Town’s Sullivan Square in Williamsburg, and the synthetic ice skating rink is suitable for all skating activities. Skating is $7 per person including skate rental and $5 with personal skates. Season passes are also available for $35 per person and includes skate rental. Children under age 12 must be accompanied and supervised by an adult at all times. All participants must wear skates. For skate session days and times, call 259-5360 or visit
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DECEMBER 13, 2013
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Classifieds TO PLACE AN AD...
BY PHONE:
BY FAX: (757) 853-1634
MILITARY NEWSPAPERS OF VIRGINIA
Call: (757) 222-3990 Monday - Friday 8:30 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.
Furniture-Household Living Room Elegant Table purchased from Haverty's - $300 (Hampton). Brand New, tags still on 63"L x 34W" glass top stunning table. Call 201-803-3482
Brand New Layaway Available MATTRESS SETS Full- $99, Queen- $129, King- $169 40% Military Discount on all other sets!
Can deliver. 757-706-3667 Help Wanted HVAC and Plumbing Technicians . Make $1500 + /week. 2yrs exp. residential. Major company with offices in Va.Bch & NN. Call Steve 757-595-9900.
For Rent-House (All) SFH 4bd/3ba, $1650 mo/security deposit. Avail 1 Jan 14, call 725-0037.
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DECEMBER 13, 2013