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Peninsula

Warrior J O I N T February 3, 2017 Vol. 7, No. 5

B A S E

ARMY EDITION

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 r e s t o f p e r s o n n e l a t Jo i n t B a s e L a n g l ey - E u s t i s

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Finding H.O.P.E.: A military family’s journey F-16 VIPER Demo Team arrive for COMACC qualification —Pages 8-9

VIRGINIA GUARD Supports 58th Presidential Inauguration —Page 12

For more online content, check out www.JBLE.af.mil

Air Force News

RED FLAG Weather forecasters ensure real-world safety —Page 7

—Pages 10-11

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JOINT BASE LANGLEY-EUSTIS EDITORIAL STAFF Joint Base Langley-Eustis Commander Col. Caroline M. Miller Joint Base Langley-Eustis Public Affairs Officer Maj. Kevin Whitlatch • kevin.whitlatch@us.af.mil Joint Base Langley-Eustis Editor Staff Sgt. Brittany E.N. Murphy • brittany.murphy.2@us.af.mil Per Air Force Instruction 35-101/Army Regulation 360-1, only stories and photos submitted by members of the Department of Defense community and DOD news services may be printed in The Peninsula Warrior. Any stories, photos or announcements must be submitted eight days prior to publication. Stories and photos should be submitted to the editor and/or assistant editor at 633abw. paedit@us.af.mil or Public Affairs Office, 601 Hines Cir., Fort Eustis, VA 23604. Announcements for the Community Section should be submitted to fteustismain@gmail.com. Announcements for the Outside the Gate Section should be submitted to fteustismain@gmail.com. For more information call 878-4920. Authors’ names may be withheld, but all letters must include the authors’ signatures and telephone number. The Peninsula Warrior is an authorized publication for all the members of the U.S. military. Contents of The Peninsula Warrior are not necessarily the official views of, or endorsed by, the U.S. Government, the Department of Defense, Department of the Air Force or the Department of the Army. The Peninsula Warrior is printed every Friday by offset as a civilian enterprise newspaper for the Public Affairs Office, U.S. Air Force by Military Newspapers of Virginia at 150 W. Brambleton Ave. Norfolk, VA 23510 under exclusive written contract with the commander, Joint Base Langley-Eustis. MNV is a private firm in no way connected with the Department of the Air Force or Department of the Army. Printed circulation: 25,000. Everything advertised in this publication shall be made available for purchase, use or patronage without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, marital status, physical handicap, political affiliation or any other non-merit factor of the purchaser, user or patron. A confirmed violation or rejection of this policy of equal opportunity by any advertiser will result in refusal to print advertising from that source. All editorial content of The Peninsula Warrior is prepared, edited, provided and approved by the Public Affairs Office Joint Base LangleyEustis. All photographs are Air Force or Army photographs unless otherwise stated. The appearance of advertising in this publication, including inserts and supplements, does not constitute endorsement by the Department of Defense or MNV of the products or services advertised.

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February 3, 2017

SHELLBANK’S MULTIPURPOSE EXERCISE ROOM REOPENS By Beverly Joyner 633RD AIR BASE WING PUBLIC AFFAIRS

After being closed for almost eight months due to a pipe leak, the Shellbank Fitness Center’s multipurpose exercise room at Joint Base LangleyEustis, Virginia has reopened. The exercise room, now equipped with a new floor, will host a variety of fitness classes, to include step aerobics, fitness and power yoga, stretch and tone, Zumba and body sculpting. “We have a list of scheduled fitness classes at the front desk and on the JBLE website,” said John Hickok, 633rd Force Support Squadron fitness center director. “The exercise room is available during staffed hours and all of our instructors are certified.” According Hickok, the multipurpose exercise room is part of the new overall fitness program plan. When scheduled classes are not in session, the room is open to people who want to work out, however free weights and jump ropes are not allowed. Since reservations are not required, units and individual groups can use the room for physical training and to work out together. “While the floor was being replaced, classes were held at the Air Combat Command fitness center,” said Hickok. “Now that classes have resumed at Shellbank, fitness center patrons seem to like the new wood floor, which has bounce and is easy on the legs.” “I love this class not only for the benefits of the exercise but the friendships you develop and all of the interesting ladies,” said Military dependent Kathleen Murphy, a stretch and tone class participant who has been taken classes at Langley since 1990. In the near future, a kiosk will provide free on-screen instructor-led videos featuring a variety of fitness programs and exercises. All classes at the Shellbank and ACC fitness centers are free to active-duty, Reserve and National Guard members.

U.S. Air Force photo by Beverly Joyner

U. S. Air Force Airman 1st Class Chelsi Knott, 633rd Force Support Squadron services apprentice, exercises in the Shellbank Fitness Center’s multipurpose exercise room at Joint Base Langley Eustis, Va., Jan. 23, 2017. After being closed for almost eight months due to a pipe leak, the room has reopened with new flooring and will host fitness classes including yoga, step aerobics, Zumba, stretch and tone and body sculpting.

U.S. Air Force photo by Beverly Joyner

A yoga class is held in the Shellbank Fitness Center’s multipurpose exercise room at Joint Base Langley-Eustis, Va., Jan. 26, 2017. The room has reopened with new flooring and hosts fitness classes including yoga, step aerobics, stretch and tone, Zumba and body sculpting. When scheduled classes are not in session, the room is open to people who want to workout, however free weights and jump ropes are not allowed.

Classes are $2 each for other Department of Defense cardholders and their guests. For more information about Langley

Air Force Base fitness center classes, visit www.jbleforcesupport.com or call the Shellbank Fitness Center at 2258166.

We want to hear from you. Contact us at 633abw.paedit@us.af.mil, or call 878-4920 or 764-5701.

February 3, 2017

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DOD adjusts BAH rates for 2017 By Tetaun Moffett 633RD AIR BASE WING PUBLIC AFFAIRS

Beginning on Jan. 1, 2017, the Department of Defense made a change to the basic allowance for housing at Joint Base Langley-Eustis, Virginia. Service members in areas or pay grades set to receive the new BAH rates will see an average increase of $41 per month. The other service members who would receive a rate reduction due to the change will be grandfathered into their previous higher rate until they do a Permanent Change of Station move or receive a promotion. If they are promoted and their new rank receives a lower rate, they will continue to receive their previous higher rate. BAH rate adjustments occur annually and can fluctuate each year when they are evaluated. However, this year the rates are designed to only cover 97 percent of service members housing cost, which was a one percent drop from last year.

â€œWe encourage Airmen to use their BAH wisely especially when PCSing to a new duty station,â€? said Staff Sgt. Robert Vineyard, 633rd Comptroller Squadron military pay supervisor. â€œBAH must not be counted as a source of income. The allowance is specifically for housing and it should be used for that purpose.â€? According to Vineyard, each year the Finance office processes over 2,000 newly assigned Airman during in-processing, and on many occasions service members have difficulties finding places to rent that accommodates their income. He strongly recommends that service members who are new to the area seek counsel from their supervisors before they are released for house hunting. â€œToo many service members are PCSing and looking at just rent with very little knowledge of the area,â€? said Vineyard. â€œWe encourage them to do their research on the cost of living and seek rent thatâ€™s lower than their BAH.â€? For a more information of BAH rates, visit www.defensetravel.dod.mil/site/bah.cfm.

U.S. Air Force graphic by Tetaun Moffett

The Department of Defense made a change to the basic allowance for housing at Joint Base Langley-Eustis, Virginia, Jan. 1, 2017. Service members in areas or pay grades set to receive the new BAH rates will see an average increase of $41 per month.

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February 3, 2017

633rd FSS John L. Hennessy Nominee By Staff Reports 633RD FORCE SUPPORT SQUADRON

U.S. Air Force courtesy photo by Eric Deagle

and senior leadership involvement in the food service operation. The Hennessy evaluation team will

arrive on 5 Feb., 2017 and will spend two days evaluating the full scope of the Food Service Operation.

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The 633rd Force Support Squadron Food Service Operation is the 2017 Air Combat Command nominee for the prestigious John L. Hennessy Award. The John L. Hennessy trophy is an annual award presented to the best food service program in the U.S. Air Force. The Hennessy award is based on the entire scope of an installation’s food service program exhibiting excellence in management effectiveness, force readiness support, food quality, employee and customer relations, resource conservation, training and safety awareness. The Hennessy Trophy Awards Program has three essential purposes. The first is to promote excellence in customer service and meal quality

throughout the service by recognizing outstanding dining facility operations and management. The second is to inspire high morale, motivation, mission support, and a professional image through pride and spirited competition. The third is to improve management concepts and practices. The 61st Annual Hennessy Trophy Awards Program in 2017 reflects the dedication, pride and fellowship of the civilian food service industry and the Air Force thus improving the Air Force way of life. The Hennessy program also allows the sharing of valuable information between the travelers, who are recognized leaders in the civilian food service industry and base-level food service personnel. The keys to success include superior customer service, astute management

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February 3, 2017

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New menu soars at Eaglewood Grille By Joseph Gangemi, 633RD AIR BASE WING PUBLIC AFFAIRS

The Grille at the Eaglewood Golf Course debuted its new menu at Joint Base LangleyEustis, Virginia, Jan. 23, 2017. The Eaglewood Grille is one of many non-appropriated funded facilities receiving an overhaul to improve its daily operations. “The new menu is healthier and much easier to prepare because of the fresh ingredients that are used,” said Ladonna Brown, Langley Club food service specialist. “You will no longer see any deep fried items on the menu.” The new menu is geared toward healthier options and will now offer items such as

appetizers, soups and salads, deli sandwiches and burgers. “Preparing food starts with the fundamentals, which includes improving food quality by sourcing local fresh ingredients and the discipline not to cut corners during preparation,” said James Belle, Langley Club director of food and beverage. According to Belle, one of the many objectives is to ensure that each facility will have its own unique brand. Each of the different NAF facilities at JBLE will feature a signature dish and a healthyheart item that can only be obtained at that specific location. “It’s about giving each restaurant an identity that’s not dependent on the activity that

it’s embedded in,” said Belle. “For each facility to be successful it must be treated as a stand-alone restaurant.” The winter hours for the Grille are Monday through Friday from 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. In addition to dining-in and take-out, the Grille also offers catering and private rooms for events. The Grille will also offer breakfast starting in late spring. Changes at the Langley Marina Marker 27, Langley Lanes and The Langley Club will take place in the coming months. For more information on 633rd Force Support Squadron activities please visit www. jbleforcesupport.com.

U.S. Air Force photo by Eric Deagle

The Grille at the Eaglewood Golf Course celebrated the debut of the new menu at Joint Base Langley-Eustis, Va., Jan. 23, 2017. The Grille will be open from 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. Monday through Friday.

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February 3, 2017

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February 3, 2017

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Red Flag weather forecasters ensure real-world safety By Staff Sgt. Natasha Stannard 633RD AIR BASE WING PUBLIC AFFAIRS

“You can’t take me anywhere,” jokes U.S. Air Force Tech. Sgt. Ashley Weatherly, Red Flag 17-1weather forecaster from the 1st Operational Support Squadron at Joint Base Langley-Eustis, Virginia, as a pilot passes by her weather operations desk shaking his head after hearing his and several other flights were cancelled due to thunderstorms and snow. Weatherly, one of two Red Flag 17-1 weather forecasters, knows this isn’t what flyers want to hear, but their safety depends on weather calls determined by forecasts she prepares. Along with forecasts, Weatherly and her 1st OSS counterpart, U.S. Air Force Senior Airman William James are responsible for tracking, researching and briefing weather conditions for the multicontingent joint and coalition force exercise at Nellis AFB, Nevada. While most of Red Flag involves scenario based training interjections that test combat

skills and capabilities, the training’s weather forecasters deal with real-world injects brought on by mother nature that determine the safety and course of exercise missions. “For the Air Force to do the things we do, weather is an important factor,” said Gregory Weart, Red Flag deputy director of operations. “Weather is an even bigger deal (during) Red Flag because, not only do we need to safely execute the exercise, we need to bring everyone home safely.” According to Weart, determining weather safety is an integral part of deconflicting airspace as the combat exercise can involve approximately 40 different (aircraft) flying around the same airspace at any time. To divide that airspace and avoid collisions, flight areas are divided into layers allowing pilots to fly safely at different blocks of altitude. With airspace divided between joint, partner and aggressor-training forces, the weather operations desk is visited nearly every minute prior to flights. Sometimes people have questions about overall weather

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and sometimes it’s about particular mission set forecasts. Either way, the forecasters are ready to handle it all. “I start my day at 6 a.m., and it’s non-stop and constantly changing,” said Weatherly. “With the weather changes, we consistently have people coming in to check their flight stats. It’s one thing after another so you really just have to be able adapt to answer any questions.” A Red Flag veteran, Weatherly works like a machine that seamlessly transitions from fielding a phone call about tomorrow’s flights, to answering questions about the day’s cancelled missions all while preparing mass and mission-centric forecast briefings to aircrews participating in the exercise. “It can be so easy to lose your spot or lose track of what you’re doing in this job,” said Weatherly. “But, as you progress in your career, your confidence improves. Red Flag was a big part of that for me. I went to my first one in 2002. I must have briefed a hundred people at a time during that exercise and that made me feel like I could do anything.” For Weart, that confidence is essential in this exercise and weather is an integral piece of ensuring safety throughout the threeweek training. “We’ve developed processes over the

U.S. Air Force photo by Staff Sgt. Natasha Stannard

U.S. Air Force Tech. Sgt. Ashley Weatherly, Red Flag 17-1 weather forecaster from the 1st Operational Support Squadron at Langley Air Force Base Virginia,, answers a coalition partner’s questions about forecasts at Nellis Air Force Base, Nev., Jan. 23, 2017. The exercise’s weather forecasters prepare products that determine the ability to safely accomplish air-to-air combat training missions during the exercise.

years to ensure the greatest amount of safety for our participants,” said Weart. “Because of that, having a total picture of what to anticipate and expect is a huge part of executing the missions without mishaps.” With cancelled flights on the first day of training due to weather, Weatherly knows her and her wingman have their work cut out. However, they are more than ready to handle it as their job directs the safety of others.

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February 3, 2017

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F-16 VIPER DEMO TEAM ARRIVE FOR COMACC QUALIFICATION

U.S. Air Force photo by Senior Airman Kimberly Nagle U.S. Air Force photo by Senior Airman Kimberly Nagle

U.S. Air Force Capt. John Waters, F-16 Viper Demonstration Team pilot, taxis on the runway at Joint Base LangleyEustis, Va., Jan. 31, 2017. Waters and his team arrived at JBLE so he could complete a Commander of the Air Combat Command certification training, securing him a spot as a pilot for the team.

From left, U.S. Air Force Maj. Daniel Dickinson, F-22 Raptor Demonstration Team commander, greats U.S. Air Force Maj. Craig Baker, F-16 Demonstration Team safety officer, after landing at Joint Base LangleyEustis, Va., Jan. 31, 2017. The F-16 Viper Demo Team traveled to JBLE to perform in front of the Commander of the Air Combat Command, to ensure they are meeting demonstration qualifications.

U.S. Air Force photo by Senior Airman Kimberly Nagle

Above: Aircraft from the F-16 Viper Demonstration team assigned to Shaw Air Force Base, S. C., land at Joint Base Langley-Eustis, Va., Jan. 31, 2017. Three F-16 Vipers flew to JBLE, allowing one of the pilots to complete their Commander of the Air Combat Command certification, by demonstrating his qualifying performance.

U.S. Air Force photo by Senior Airman Kimberly Nagle

U.S. Air Force Senior Airman Adam Armstrong, F-16 Viper Demonstration Team crew chief, signals to a pilot after landing at Joint Base Langley-Eustis, Va., Jan. 31, 2017. Crew chiefs assigned to the team, travel to each destination with their aircraft, ensuring the aircraft is ready for flight at all times. U.S. Air Force photo by Senior Airman Kimberly Nagle

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A member of the F-16 Viper Demonstration Team assists with the after flight checks at Joint Base Langley-Eustis, Va., Jan. 31, 2017. Members of the team travel with the demo team pilots on their missions to ensure the aircraft and other mechanical aspects are up to par at all times.

U.S. Air Force photo by Senior Airman Kimberly Nagle

From left, U.S. Air Force Maj. Daniel Dickinson, F-22 Raptor Demonstration Team commander, U.S. Air Force Lt. Col. Christopher McAlear, Air Combat Command chief of aerial events, and U.S. Air Force Capt. John Waters, F-16 Viper Demonstration Team pilot, meet after the F-16 Vipers landed at Joint Base Langley-Eustis, Va., Jan. 31, 2017. Waters traveled to JBLE with is team to complete a Commander of the Air Combat Command certification, ensuring he is capable of flying with the demo team.

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F-16 VIPER DEMO TEAM ARRIVE FOR COMACC QUALIFICATION

U.S. Air Force photo by Senior Airman Kimberly Nagle U.S. Air Force photo by Senior Airman Kimberly Nagle

U.S. Air Force photo by Senior Airman Kimberly Nagle

001WLA02032017.indd A8-A9

U.S. Air Force photo by Senior Airman Kimberly Nagle

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February 3, 2017

Finding H.O.P.E.: A military family’s journey By Staff Sgt. Teresa J. Cleveland 633RD AIR BASE WING PUBLIC AFFAIRS

At first glance, it’s easy to see the Johns family is not a typical military family. Though three children and a dog may seem normal, the six-year-old in a stroller and the dog wearing a vest would clearly catch any onlooker’s eye. U.S. Army Sgt. Matthew Johns, 221st Military Police Detachment military police officer, his wife Nikki, their three daughters Nikita, age 18, Eveylynn, age nine, AudreeAna, age six, and an English lab named Hope, arrived at Joint Base Langley-Eustis, Virginia, in Oct. 2016 due to a permanent change of station. Together, they have relied on the Army, teachers and each other for support for AudreeAna’s medical condition. Diagnosing AudreeAna AudreeAna was born at Fort Stewart, Georgia, in 2010 with minor complications not foreseen to cause any significant issues to her growth and development. Cleared to travel shortly after her birth, the Johns family visited family in their hometown of Cincinnati, Ohio. While in the area, AudreeAna was examined for her two-week checkup at Wright-Patterson Medical Center, WrightPatterson Air Force Base, Ohio. It was there Matt and Nikki first came to learn of their youngest daughter’s medical condition, which was brought to light after AudreeAna displayed irregular movements of her arms and legs. “The physician examined her and looked concerned as he stepped out of the room, saying he would be right back,” said Nikki. “I’ll never forget; when he walked back in the room he said ‘We are referring you to neurology, your daughter is having seizures.’”

Shocked and at a loss for words, Matt tried his best to stay calm for his family. For the next week, Matt and Nikki would travel between Wight-Patterson AFB, Cincinnati Children’s Hospital, and back to Ft. Stewart. At just 23 days old, AudreeAna was diagnosed with epilepsy with partial complex seizures. Though this came as a shock, the family was nowhere near done learning of her many medical ailments. “AudreeAna was not growing at the same rate as her siblings or the average rate of children her age; she was still the size of a newborn by her four-month checkup,” said Matt. “At seven months old, she was just starting to be able to sit up in a walker, so we knew there had to be something more than just epilepsy going on.” After working with geneticists, cardiologists, gastroenterologists and nutritionists, at less than a year old, AudreeAna was diagnosed with Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome, a connective tissue disorder that causes seizures, easy bruising, hypermobility and weakness of tissue throughout the body. No two cases of EDS are exactly alike, ranging from constant mild joint pain to costochondritis, an inflammation of the rib cartilage that mimics a heart attack, or even death. While there are six defined types of EDS, EDS Hypermobility is one of the most recognized. Joints that are more flexible than most, unstable joints which are prone to frequent dislocations, and slow or poor wound healing are some of the biggest symptoms within this type of EDS. AudreeAna’s medical condition also caused problems with speech development, giving her the need to use sign language at a young age. Geneticists explained that EDS is genetic, passed down to AudreeAna from Nikki.

U.S. Air Force photo by Staff Sgt. Teresa J. Cleveland

AudreeAna Johns, age six, daughter of U.S. Army Sgt. Matthew Johns, 221st Military Police Detachment military police officer, walks her service dog, Hope, across the bridge of a playground at Joint Base Langley-Eustis, Va., Jan. 5, 2017. Hope is trained as a seizure alert, stability and anxiety service animal and travels most places with AudreeAna, ready to notify of an impending medical need.

“I was confused. I was shocked to learn I had it, but mine is not extreme, so I was never diagnosed,” said Nikki. “[The doctor] explained that the way I stand hyper extended and the fact that I’ve always been flexible were sure signs of EDS Hypermobility.” Finding H.O.P.E. While at Ft. Carson, Colorado, Matt and Nikki made sure AudreeAna was seen on a regular basis. Eventually, medical professionals recommended Matt and Nikki get a service dog to alert AudreeAna, her family or her teachers of her medical concerns. After doing some research, Nikki and Matt found that there are currently no programs within the military healthcare system to assist in providing service animals for dependents. After hearing about the family’s need, local community businesses hosted benefits to raise money for a service animal. Family and friends also chipped in what they could, and after several months of fundraising efforts, the Johns family finally completed their mission. They received an English lab service dog for their daughter.

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They named her Hope. “We named her Hope because we have her to ‘Help Open People’s Eyes’ about the lack of assistance in getting service animals for dependents. We want to do that over the course of AudreeAna’s life, and Hope’s life and work ability, because they can be trained to do the job great,” said Nikki. “The cost of a service dog tends to turn a lot of needing families away from the idea, but I’ve read so many stories of families with children with certain ailments and having a service dog has helped them immensely.” Trained as a seizure alert, stability and anxiety service animal, Hope travels most places with AudreeAna, ready to notify of an impending medical need. Hope goes to school with AudreeAna, to her doctors’ visits and sleeps near her, alerting those nearby of issues even when she sleeps. “Hope is truly a lifesaver. We saw on our video monitor that she was vigorously licking AudreeAna’s face one night, and when we walked in, AudreeAna wasn’t breathing,” said Nikki. “We went through our procedures to kick-start her breathing

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again. In all honesty, she was only able to together with Matt and Nikki to make a make it through the night because Hope plan for AudreeAna’s school success. was there to save her.” “We talked a lot about AudreeAna before she got here because she has a lot of Exceptional support for an specific needs. We wanted to figure out exceptional family what all we needed to do and what kind When he received orders to JBLE, Matt of classroom accommodations needed to and Nikki went into action and immedi- be made,” said Craven. “Her parents have ately began making phone calls to sched- been very forthcoming with information ule a long list of doctor appointments, and taught us a lot so we could make sure making special housing arrangements and to the best of our abilities that AudreeAna notifying her elementary school of the in- is getting what she needs in order to succoming circumstances with their family. ceed in her education.” As if dealing with the PCS was not stressAudreeAna’s teachers faced her chalful enough, dealing with the additional lenges head on and immediately began circumstances, new physicians and paper- doing research. work involved with a special needs family “It was a whole new learning curve for member and a service animal added expo- me. I couldn’t find any educators that I nentially to the Johns family’s stress level. know who have worked with service aniTo help with this transition, Nikki and mals in the classroom, so I read online and Matt immediately contacted JBLE’s Excep- I talked to veterinarians and dog handlers tional Family Member Program through to ask for advice on how to approach serthe Army Community Service. vice animals, specifically those that work “When a service member with a special with younger children,” said Chewning. needs family member gets orders to PCS, “I needed to not only prepare myself, they need that one person at their next but also prepare 20 other six-year-olds on duty station they can call; that one person what to expect, because of course all of who can help them do whatever necessary them would normally just want to touch to make that move smooth,” said Julie the puppy in the room.” Hu, 633rd Force Support Squadron Army Before the Johns family arrived, ChewnCommunity Service EFMP systems navi- ing discussed the purpose of service anigator. “The Army wants to take care of its mals with her students, teaching them that families and ensure that the gaining base service animals are there to work – to help has the necessary medical professionals people stay healthy. She explained that and facilities available to tend to the spe- some service dogs help people with medicific needs of the family member.” cal issues that cannot be seen outright, and No matter the location, EFMP will make that there are special things the animal is sure it’s a right fit for the family’s needs. trained to do when a medical issues arises. “People get frustrated because they get “It is pretty amazing. Other than a few turned away from duty stations while accidental ‘stepping-on-tail’ incidents, they have a family member enrolled in there’s been no real incident of a kid just the EFMP because that particular duty sta- going over and petting the dog, because tion might not have the specific specialist the kids are very aware that the dog is or medical facility they need,” said Nikki. there to work and not to socialize with “But the amazing thing is those EFMP sys- them,” said Chewning. “Hope has become tem navigators and coordinators look into a part of our class and the students tend to the system to make sure that they can pro- notice more when she is not in class as opvide everything necessary for that excep- posed to when she is around.” tional family member. They really make Craven believes Hope’s presence benyou feel like they are putting the needs of efits more than just AudreeAna, but her your family first.” classmates and teachers alike. “Schooling” others While many schools have special education programs, not many educators have dealt with service animals in the classroom environment, let alone with children as young as six years old. Keldie Chewning, first grade teacher, and Kelly Craven, special education teacher and school administrators at Gen. Stanford Elementary School on JBLE, worked

What the future holds Though the Johns family has found ways for AudreeAna to live with her medical ailments, their fight doesn’t stop there. Due to its genetic nature, Eveylynn has also been diagnosed with EDS Hypermobility, though her symptoms are not quite as intense as AudreeAna’s. In addition to EDS, Eveylynn suffers from postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome, a condi-

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tion in which a change from lying or sitting down to an upright position causes an abnormally large increase in heart rate, or tachycardia. “With POTS, your blood pressure drops while your heart races, so your body is working against itself. We were told as she gets older, chances of her passing out from things like that are going to be very likely,” said Matt. “Chances of her needing a service dog of her own are going to be very high.” While their youngest two daughters experience unusually extreme flexibility as part of their type of EDS, their oldest daughter, Nikita, does not face the medical ailments of her sisters, earning her the nickname, the family “hard pretzel”. As the family transferred to JBLE, Nikita followed to continue supporting her sisters, postponing her college goals to become a sign language interpreter and U.S. Air Force Reservist. “If it wasn’t for AudreeAna’s need for sign language when she was younger, I wouldn’t be planning on the career path I want to pursue,” said Nikita. “I know we had plenty of family and friends I could have stayed with if I wanted to attend college at our last base, but my sisters are

11 like my little munchkins and I don’t know where I would be without them.” A community outlook Though their journey has not been easy, Matt and Nikki believe the EFMP personnel, Gen. Stanford Elementary School and JBLE community members have played major roles in the amount of positivity in their lives and the lives of their children. “The school is so adaptive; they don’t make it like it’s a burden. They have welcomed our family and our situation just like they would any other family,” said Nikki. “It’s been a very supportive community and that’s what we really love about Fort Eustis.” Despite the amount of time spent in doctors’ offices and home therapy sessions, Matt and Nikki encourage their children to do their best and stay positive every day. “We always say you have to find your way through it. We practice a lot of ‘mind over matter’. said Nikki. “Our children have really shown us how they can shine. They’re military children, so that’s not easy by itself, but they make it easy – they are really adaptive and it makes my heart so happy to see how much my family can overcome.”

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February 3, 2017

Virginia Guard supports 58th Presidential Inauguration By Cotton Puryear VIRGINIA NATIONAL GUARD PUBLIC AFFAIRS

Nearly 300 Virginia National Guard Soldiers and Airmen joined a force of approximately 7,500 National Guard personnel from across the country supporting the 58th Presidential Inauguration Jan. 20, 2017, in Washington, D. C. Virginia Guard personnel assisted with traffic control as well as communications, medical and chaplain support, and also provided liaison officers to key military and civilian command headquarters in the area. Additional personnel from the Virginia Army National Guard, Virginia Air National Guard and Virginia Defense Force conducted mission command and sustainment support in Sandston and other locations in the state and additional troops were on standby. “The Virginia National Guard’s support to the presidential inauguration went extremely well, and it was the result of months of planning and preparation by members of the Joint, Army and Air Guard staffs as well as the leadership of the units involved,” explained Brig. Gen. Paul Griffin, Virginia National Guard Director of the Joint Staff. “Our Soldiers and Airmen were an important part of the multi-agency team tasked with security and support, and we are extremely proud of the highly-professional way our Soldiers and Airmen conducted themselves and executed the mission.” Virginia National Guard Soldiers and Airmen are sworn in as special deputies Jan. 19, 2017, at FedEx Field in Landover, Maryland. They were in place with traffic control points before the sun came up Jan. 20, and stayed on duty until well after the inauguration parade was complete. “Supporting the presidential inauguration is another opportunity for the Virginia National Guard to build the partnerships that are so critical to success in domestic operations,” said Maj. Gen. Timothy P. William, the Adjutant General of Virginia. “Working with other National Guard states and territories and area law enforcement to help make sure the inauguration events are a safe, positive experience for everyone who attends helps us prepare and gain experience that would be essential for effective response

operations in the future.” The Virginia Beach-based 529th Combat Sustainment Support Battalion, 329th Regional Support Group provided mission command for the Soldiers and Airmen operating the TCPS and were organized as Task Force 529. Other units providing personnel to the task force include the Virginia Beach-based 229th Military Police Company, the Blackstonebased 3647th Maintenance Company, the Powhatan-based 180th Engineer Company and the 192nd Security Forces Squadron from Langley Air Force Base in Hampton. The task force also includes two chaplain support teams, liaison officers, a five-Soldier medical support team and four Soldiers and Airmen providing public affairs support. “The Soldiers and Airman of Task Force 529 are proud to have been a part of the 58th Presidential Inauguration this year,” said Lt. Col. Matthew Lutz, commander of the task force. “We learned a tremendous amount of special skills that law enforcement brings to their everyday business protecting and serving citizens. The Washington D.C. Metropolitan Police Department and the U.S. Secret Service were outstanding organizations to work with, and we are extremely satisfied in supporting them during this event.” Lutz commended the outstanding work of the task force that included Air Guard security forces, Army Guard military police, chaplain teams, liaison teams, communications support and other Army elements. “We formed an outstanding team in a very short time and executed our mission with the highest degree of professionalism,” Lutz said. “I would gladly have those personnel in my formation in future missions.” Soldiers from the Fort Belvoir-based 29th Infantry Division provided liaison officers for incident management and coordination efforts at the Multi-Agency Coordination Center in Fairfax County, Virginia. The MACC, located at the Virginia Department of Emergency Management, Region 7 Headquarters in Fairfax County, is a multi-jurisdictional cooperative of agencies and includes representatives from the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, the Virginia Departments

Photo by Tech Sgt. Dan Rusnak 192nd Fighter Wing Public Affairs

Virginia National Guard Airmen operate traffic control points Jan. 20, 2017, in Washington, D. C., in support of the 58th Presidential Inauguration. Nearly 300 Virginia National Guard Soldiers and Airmen are serving alongside a force of approximately 7,500 National Guard personnel from 44 states and three territories to support the event providing traffic control and crowd management, as well as communications, medical and chaplain support.

of Emergency Management, Health and Social Services, the Virginia State Police, the Virginia Army National Guard, as well as local law enforcement from several northern Virginia localities. The mission of the MACC is to monitor and facilitate the flow of information from multiple external sources to the various federal, state, and local agencies operating within the northern Virginia area. The 29th Soldiers on-site consisted of two teams of liaison officers, who are providing 24-hour support for the coordination and facilitation of National Guard support to various agencies before, during and immediately following the Presidential Inauguration. “Our role as liaison officers within the MACC is to be the eyes and ears for the Guard,” said Sgt. Maj. Joel Fix of the 29th Infantry Division. “We are here to help facilitate and manage expectations against capabilities, while helping to coordinate Guard assistance to the various other agencies in the event of an incident or emergency.” In addition to the Soldiers and Airmen actively engaged in the inauguration support mission, additional personnel were on standby or conducting training during their monthly drill weekend and would have been available if needed. Soldiers and Airmen assigned the Blackstone-based 34th Civil Support Team were part of a multi-state team monitoring for

possible chemical, nuclear, biological or radiological threats. The Virginia National Guard’s Chemical, Biological, Radiological, Nuclear, High Yield Explosive Enhanced Response Force Package, or CERFP, was training at Fort A. P. Hill and could have been part of an incident response if needed. Soldiers from the Staunton-based 116th Infantry Brigade Combat Team were also training at Fort A. P. Hill and capable of providing a quick reaction force if needed to respond to a civil disturbance, and aviation crews were also on standby in Sandston and Chesterfield. Military support by the Guard dates back to 1798 when Gen. George Washington began his inaugural journey from Mount Vernon, Va. to New York City. Local militias joined his inaugural procession as it passed through towns along the route. Once Washington arrived in New York City, a presidential escort composed of members of the regular Army, local militia units (the modern-day National Guard), and Revolutionary War veterans accompanied him to Federal Hall for the presidential oath. The National Guard has continued this tradition of inaugural support ever since. Additional reporting by Maj. Jenny Hartsock, Virginia National Guard Public Affairs, and Sgt. Marc Heaton, 29th Infantry Division Public Affairs.

February 3, 2017

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Submit Eustis Community announcements to pw@militarynews.com

Fort Eustis Tax Center opens Jan. 30

Wylie Theater hosts Chapel Next Sunday services

The Fort Eustis Tax Center will open Jan. 30, 2017 to April 14, 2017 for in-person advice for active duty members, retirees and dependents. The center will open 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday, Wednesday and Friday for walk-in services. From 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Tuesday and Thursday by appointment only for active duty members. Members should bring their W-2, 1099-R, 1098-T, interest or brokerage states, dependent care statements, mortgage statements, rental property statements and last year’s tax return to their appointments. For more information, contact 878-3031.

Join Chapel Next at the Wylie Theater from 10 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. on Sundays for contemporary Christian worship. Experience God’s goodness and grace, discover answers to life’s questions. Enjoy being spiritually revived, refreshed and fulfilled. For more information, call at 878-2257.

633rd FSS hosts Mardi Gras event The 633rd Force Support Squadron will host a Mardi Gras event from 4:30 p.m. to 1 a.m. at the Fort Eustis Club on Feb. 3, 2017. The event will have casino games, fortune tellers and food and beverages. There will be live entertainment by the Training Doctrine Band, Black-White Blues Band and Zydeco Band. Tickets are $15 in advance and $18 at the door, and include a meal for one. Tickets are available at Joint Base Langley-Eustis Clubs, Fort Eustis Information, Tickets and Tours office and the Langley Community Center. For more information, call 878-5700.

JBLE hosts Black History Month celebration Joint Base Langley-Eustis’s Headquarters Training and Doctrine Command will host a special commemorative celebration from 11 a.m. to 12 p.m. at the Jacobs Conference Center at Fort Eustis, Va., Feb. 28, 2017. This year’s theme, “The Crisis in Black Education – Success Always Leaves Footprints” focuses on the crucial role of education in the history of African Americans. Ellen M. Helmerson, Headquarters TRADOC deputy chief of staff, will host the event and Brian Smalls, National Association for the Advancement of Colored People York-James City-Williamsburg Chapter president, will be the keynote speaker. For more information, call 501-699 or 501-6784.

Fort Eustis Spouse’ Club helps community with grants The Spouses’ Club of Fort Eustis (SCFE) is a private, non-profit organization that earns funds through The Whistle Stop Thrift Store, monthly luncheons, an annual gala, and other events. The funds generated from the SCFE are then dispersed throughout the community in the form of “Community Grants” that are used to benefit the soldiers and families of the Fort Eustis community. Past examples of these community grants are meals provided to soldier’s families, personal devices to help Wounded Warriors keep track of medical appointments and help for soldiers passing through airports. The deadline for grant applications is April 9, 2017. For more information or to donate, go to www.SCFEVA.com.

JBLE Outdoor Recreation Centers open Saturdays The Langley Air Force Base and Fort Eustis Outdoor Recreation Centers will now open on Saturdays. The hours of operation for the Langley Outdoor Recreation Center are 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., Monday through Thursday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Friday and 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Saturday. The hours of operation for the Fort Eustis Outdoor Recreation Center are 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Friday and 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Saturday. For more information, contact the Langley Outdoor Recreation Center at 764-7170 or the Fort Eustis Outdoor Recreation Center at 878-2610.

Company Grade Officer Council welcomes members The Company Grade Officer Council will meet at 4:45 p.m. at the Bayview Commonwealth Center every third Thursday of the month and is open to all Company Grade Officers. The council has an opening for a U.S. Army officer on the council board. Join the council for professional development, social events and fun. For more information, call 764-9954.

Fort Eustis’ Groninger Library encourages reading Fort Eustis’ Groninger Library has implemented an ongoing Reading Program entitled “1000 Books Before Kindergarten” and “1000 Books from 1st -5th grades.” For every 100 books read, children can take their reading log to the library to receive a prize. After reading 1000 books, children will receive a free t-shirt. For more information, contact the library at 878-5017 or visit www.groningerlibrary.com.

Live Fire Range Schedule Ranges, training areas, and associated facilities are Off Limits to personnel not engaged in scheduled firing, operations, or inspections/recons unless clearance is obtained in person from Range Control Fire Desk (Bldg. 2432 Mulberry Island Road) or a designated Range Control Technician. All personnel are required to check in and out with range control before going into or departing any Range or Training area. Range schedule until Feb 14: Feb. 6 – BTRAC, R1, R2 POW, R3 from 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. Feb. 7 – BTRAC, R1, R2, R3 from 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. Feb. 8 – BTRAC, R1, R2, R3, R5, R6 from 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. Feb. 9 – BTRAC, R1, R2, R3 from 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. Feb. 10 – BTRAC, R1, R2, R3, R5, R6 from 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. Feb. 11 – R2, R3 from 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. Feb. 12 – R2 POW, R3 POW from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Feb. 13 – BTRAC, R1, R2 POW, R3 from 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. Feb. 14 – BTRAC, R1, R2 POW, R3 from 7 a.m. to 10 p.m.

Fort Eustis Education Center announces DANTES policy change Beginning Oct. 1, 2016, DANTES will no longer physically process any paper-based reimbursement. This policy change includes reimbursement of test fees for the following exams: GED, GMAT, GRE General and GRE Subject, Praxis Core and Praxis Subject Assessment, ACT and SAT. For additional information, contact Fort Eustis Education Center at 878-2083.

JBLE Family Child Care Program If you are looking for a professional, portable career that will allow you to stay at home with your children and run your own home-based business, then becoming a child care provider may be a good fit for you. The Joint Base Langley-Eustis Family Child Care Program screens child care providers who watch children in their homes. The program is available for children ages two weeks to 12 years old. Child care providers must be at least 18 years old, be able to read and speak English, be in good health and willing to undergo a background check. The FCC will provide training and materials to get your business started. Training may include first aid, CPR, health, safety, developmentally appropriate practices and child guidance. All individuals providing child care in their homes for more than 10 hours a week must be licensed. For more information, call Fort Eustis at 878-5584/5726 or Langley Air Force Base at 7643585/2835.

Old Point Comfort Toastmasters Club Do you want to improve your public speaking and communication skills? The Old Point Comfort Toastmasters Club meets at 11:40 a.m., the first and third Wednesday of each month, at 650 Monroe Ave. Visitors are always welcome. For more information, visit www.district66.org or call 878-3124 or 878-2204.

Fort Eustis Youth Program The Fort Eustis Youth Program’s summer camp and open recreation activities are open to children ages 10 and older. Space is limited and early registration is encouraged. Leadership, sports, fitness, instructional and sponsorship programs are provided in a safe, healthy and pleasant environment. Special rates are available for no-school and half days. The program is located at 1102 Pershing Ave. Hours are from 7 a.m. to 1 p.m., Monday through Friday. Open recreation hours are from 1 p.m. to 7 p.m., Monday through Thursday, and from 1 p.m. to 10 p.m., Friday. New participants must initially register at 650 Monroe Ave. To schedule sign up appointments, call 878-4025. Walk-ins are welcome. For more information, call 878-2662.

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LAFBCommunity Tax center to open Feb. 1 The 2017 tax season is upon us. The Langley Tax Center will provide computer kiosks for members to use Military OneSource as a do-it-yourself resource for your tax preparation. Military OneSource provides service members and their dependents with access to free and secure online tax preparation and filing. Military OneSource suggests that before starting on your tax return, gather all necessary tax documents and additional information such as the following: • Social Security numbers and dates of birth for you, your spouse and dependents • Child care, education and adoption costs • W-2 forms for all employers for you and your spouse • Investment income forms • Alimony information • Social Security benefits • Miscellaneous income • Form 1098-E for student loan interest • Form 1098 for home mortgage interest • Charitable donations • Medical and dental expenses • Real estate taxes • Rental property incomes and expenses The Langley Air Force Base Tax Center will be open all duty days from 8 a.m. to 12 p.m. from Feb. 1 to April 17, 2017. For more information, call 764-3277.

JBLE offers events in honor of Black History Month

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February 3, 2017

Submit LAFB Community announcements to pw@militarynews.com ness. The group is free and open to all ID card holders over 18 years old. For more information or to enroll, please contact the Chapel at 764-7801.

JBLE men’s varsity softball team conducting try-outs The Joint Base Langley-Eustis Men’s Varsity Softball team will be conducting tryouts for the upcoming season at 1 p.m. at the Langley softball fields on Feb. 4-5, 2017 and at 1 p.m. at the Fort Eustis fields on Feb. 1112, 2017. The team is searching for committed players for weekend tournaments, which are played in and out of state. Members of the team can comprise of active duty, reserve, retiree, Department of Defense contractor, or spouse. If interested in playing, check out the team’s Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/ groups/240151129754421 for updates or e-mail the coach at MilitaryHeroesSoftball@gmail.com.

AFRC offers Executive Transition Assistance Program (ETAP) The Airman and Family Readiness Center in partnership with the 633rd Force Support Squadron will offer an Executive Transition Assistance Program to O-6 and above and GS-15 and above from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Bayview Commonwealth Center from Feb. 6-10, 2017. The ETAP provides supplemental information, tools, and training to assist senior leaders in their transition to civilian life. To register or additional information, call 764-3990.

Fort Eustis’ Groninger Library has implemented an ongoing reading program entitled “1000 Books Before Kindergarten” and “1000 Books from 1st — 5th grades.” For every 100 books read, children can take their reading log to the library to receive a prize. After reading 1000 books, children will receive a free t-shirt. For more information, contact the library at 878-5017 or visit www.groningerlibrary.com.

JBLE stresses importance of electronic IRS forms Selection of electronic delivery for 2016 IRS Form 1095-C for military members must be completed by Dec. 31, 2016 to avoid forms being mailed via the U.S. Postal System. Electronic delivery helps protect personal information, saves money and natural resources. The myPay pay management system allows military members to monitor their pay and direct delivery options of important documents such as W-2s, Leave and Earning Statements and the relatively new 1095-C healthcare coverage certification. The deadline to make an electronic delivery-only selection for W-2 forms is Dec. 1, 2016. IRS Form 1095 delivery selection must be made no later than Dec. 31, 2016. The DFAS tax statement release schedule will be released in late November and will be posted on the agency’s website at www.dfas.mil.

JBLE Family Child Care Program

Joint Base Langley-Eustis will offer events throughout the month of Feb. in honor of Black History Month. The events are as follows: • A Sip and Paint night will be offered at 6 p.m. at the Bayview Commonwealth Center on Feb. 7, 2017. An instructor will lead the painting session step by step. The paint night will be $25 for non-club members and $20 for club members. • A MixxedFit workout will be offered at 12 p.m. at the Shellbank Fitness Center on Feb. 15, 2017. MixxedFit is a fitness program that incorporates explosive movements and boot camp toning. The class is free and 60 minutes in length. • A Black History Month Luncheon hosted by the 633rd Air Base Wing will be held at 11 a.m. at the Bayview Commonwealth Center on Feb. 21, 2017. This annual luncheon is held as a culmination event for Black History Month. The guest speaker this year is Dr. Christopher L. Spells. Volunteers to help set-up, take down and escort DVs are needed during the event. For more information or to volunteer, call 575-2875.

Langley USO seeks volunteers

Mindfulness Meditation Group

The Company Grade Officer Council will meet at 4:45 p.m. at the Bayview Commonwealth Center every third Thursday of the month and is open to all Company Grade Officers. The council has an opening for a U.S. Army officer on the council board. Join the council for professional development, social events and fun. For more information, call 764-9954.

The Langley Chapel will host a New Mindfulness Meditation Group from 11:30 a.m. to 12:15 p.m. starting Jan. 19 – March 9, 2017. Explore how to bring balance, concentration, compassion, resilience and meaning to your daily life and work through time-honored practices of mindfulness meditation and Loving Kind-

Fort Eustis’ Groninger Library encourages reading

The USO on Langley Air Force Base is in need of volunteers to keep the center open. Volunteers must have access to the base. If interested in volunteering, visit the Get Involved tab at www.hrcv.uso.org.\

JBLE Outdoor Recreation Centers open Saturdays The Langley Air Force Base and Fort Eustis Outdoor Recreation Centers will now open on Saturdays. The hours of operation for the Langley Outdoor Recreation Center is 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., Monday through Thursday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Friday and 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Saturday. The hours of operation for the Fort Eustis Outdoor Recreation Center is 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Friday and 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Saturday. For more information, contact the Langley Outdoor Recreation Center at 764-7170 and the Fort Eustis Outdoor Recreation Center at 878-2610.

Company Grade Officer Council welcomes members

The Joint Base Langley-Eustis Family Child Care Program is looking for child care providers. They are searching for those interested in a professional, portable career that will allow those to stay at home and run a home-based business. The program is available for children ages two weeks to 12 years old. Child care providers must be at least 18 years old be able to read and speak English, be in good health, and willing to undergo a background check. The FCC will provide training and materials to get your business started. Training may include First Aid, CPR, health, safety, developmentally appropriate practices and child guidance. All individuals providing child care in their home for more than 10 hours a week must be licensed. For more information, Fort Eustis at 5584/5726 or Langley Air Force Base 764-3585/2835.

710th Combat Operations Squadron vacancies The 710th Combat Operations Squadron currently has 15 Officer (11/12 F/B, 13B, 14N) and 10 Enlisted (1C5, 3DX and 1NX) Reserve vacancies at Joint Base Langley-Eustis. The 710th COS is one of the Air Force Reserve Command’s and consist of two Air and Space Operations Center Augmentation units. Some AFSC’s are eligible for a $300 travel stipend. For inquiries, call 764-7080 or tamara.woodruff@us.af.mil

February 3, 2017

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