Kaiserslautern American - May 29, 2020

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NEWS

DOD officials unveil COVID-related personnel, move guidance, Page 2

NEWS

FEATURE

Strengthening force protection, Page 5

American children remembered in annual memorial service, Page 13

May 29, 2020 | Volume 44, Number 21

FEATURE

Putting people first, Pages 14-15

LIFESTYLE

Summer with dogs, Page 22

Read the KA online at KaiserslauternAmerican.com

Forward together: Green, blue teamwork keeps massive community safe by Jason Tudor U.S. Army Garrison Rheinland-Pfalz Coldwater, Michigan, and New Castle, Pennsylvania, are separated by 285 miles of Interstate, a westto-east drive that passes The Glass Capital of the World, Cedar Point Amusement Park, and the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. Today, separated by less than five miles are two of those towns’ proudest sons. They are senior military officers in the Army and Air Force in key leadership roles at a pair of overseas military installations near Kaiserslautern. Since mid-February, Army Col. Jason T. Edwards and Air Force Col. Robert S. Thompson have been paired up to do everything possible to abate a pandemic in the largest American community outside of the United States. As the pandemic spread, they both understood what their leadership meant. “Lives were on the line, and we needed to get it done,” Edwards said. “It’s just an extraordinary effort to make sure that we’re

all aligned considering the different policies coming down from higher headquarters.” Edwards, the Michigander, is the commander of U.S. Army Garrison Rheinland-Pfalz. His responsibility covers 29 sites in Germany, including several in the Kaiserslautern area. His counterpart Thompson, the Pennsylvanian, is the 86th Mission Support Group Commander, part of the 86th Airlift Wing at Ramstein Air Base. He has a similar role as the “town mayor” for several Air Force sites in Europe and at Ramstein overseeing functions like infrastructure, human resources and force protection. Snow, high winds and other weather events usually precipitate Oh Dark Thirty phone calls between the two to decide what services and facilities should be closed. When the coronavirus crisis exploded, the two leaders had already started the process of aligning efforts. See FORWARD TOGETHER, Page 6

Graphic by Staff Sgt. Kirsten Brandes

Vehicle experts weigh in

With the goal of protecting the largest community of Americans outside the United States, Air Force Col. Robert S. Thompson (upper left) and Army Col. Jason T. Edwards (upper right) have been working closely to ensure the life, health and safety of the Air Force and Army communities totaling more than 50,000 people. Photos by Senior Airman Elizabeth R. Baker, Keith Pannell, Erinn Burgess and Jason Tudor

by Airman 1st Class Jennifer Gonzales 86th Airlift Wing Public Affairs With COVID-19 restrictions relaxing and base customer service areas able to accommodate more personnel, many community members voiced questions regarding vehicle shipping, registrations, inspections and sales. Chief Master Sgt. Ernesto J. Rendon, Jr., 86th Airlift Wing Command chief, Master Sgt. Travis Ferguson, 569th Vehicle Registration non-commissioned officer in charge, Tech. Sgt. Octavio Ortega, 86th Vehicle Readiness Squadron mechanic and Ms. Natasha Lasky, vehicle shipping customer service rep-

resentative, hosted a virtual town hall May 20 to address issues related to personal vehicles in the Kaiserslautern Military Community. During opening remarks, Rendon recognized the demand to understand the current processes and limitations for vehicle registration and shipment. Below are summarized answers to several questions fielded during the town hall. Is there a way to streamline or open up more appointments with vehicle registration? What about the possibility of scanning and emailing required documents, then coming in to

sign for temporary plates? Use of Appointments Plus has allowed us to see approximately 75% more customers since Health Protection Condition Charlie was implemented. As more facilities open in the garrison, customers will see a decrease in volume to individual locations and more access to take care of vehicle registrations and renewals. Due to the legal documents needed for the process, in-person appointments are necessary. Scanned or emailed documents are not an option for this process. See TOWN HALL, Page 3


Kaiserslautern American

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May 29, 2020

DOD officials unveil COVID-related personnel, move guidance

From left: Matthew Donovan, undersecretary of defense for personnel and readiness; Lisa W. Hershman, the Defense Department's chief management officer, and Jonathan Rath Hoffman, assistant to the secretary of defense for public affairs, conduct a news briefing at the Pentagon, May 26. Photos by Marvin Lynchard

by Jim Garamone Department of Defense News Defense Secretary Dr. Mark T. Esper issued the order in early March, and in April, he extended the ban through June 30. At a Pentagon news conference today, Matthew P. Donovan, the undersecretary of defense for personnel and readiness, said Esper signed a memo lifting the June 30 travel restrictions and transitioning to a conditions-based phased approach for personnel movement and travel. “While the COVID-19 pandemic still presents an overall risk to our service members, civilians and their families, varying conditions across the nation warrant this transition to a tailored approach,” Donovan told reporters. The conditions to resume travel will be based on two overarching factors, Donovan said. First, the resumption of unrestricted travel

must align with state and regional criteria based on the guidelines of the White House's Opening Up America guidance. DOD and base officials also will adhere to guidance from the Department of Health and Human Services and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Donovan said. “Consideration of factors such as removal of shelter-in-place orders and a downward trend of new COVID-19 cases over the preceding 14 days will be used to make a determination for the resumption of movement between states, regions and nations,” the undersecretary said. The second set of factors incorporates the evaluation of installation-level conditions. “This includes items such as whether there are local travel restrictions, sufficient capacity of medical treatment facilities or local hospitals, testing capability and capacity and the availability of essential services

such as schools and child care,” he said. “These factors will be carefully considered before movement decisions are made.” The Pentagon reservation — the building and many leased spaces in the national capital region — has made tremendous progress and officials have seen a downward trend in coronavirus cases for 10 days, DOD Chief Management Officer Lisa W. Hershman said. “We've been able to isolate, trace and mitigate any spread,” she said. “To date, our teams have cleaned and sanitized over 1 million square feet of office space on the Pentagon reservation to CDC standards.” The telework effort has enabled more than two-thirds of the Pentagon reservation workforce to continue to deliver the mission at alternate work locations, the CMO noted. Hershman said the “resilience plan” is based on local condi-

Matthew P. Donovan, undersecretary of defense for personnel and readiness, discusses COVID-19 travel restrictions and other updates during a Pentagon news briefing, May 26.

tions and is not set to any specific date. The plan builds on the White House Opening Up America plan and has five phases leading to full opening, she said. As the plan moves along, she added, if there is a resurgence in the spread of coronavirus, DOD officials will reassess the department's protection mea-

sures and workforce phase and respond appropriately. “The plan provides phase-byphase guidance to commanders, supervisors and employees to safely and effectively return to Pentagon reservation offices, along with guidelines for in office and telework targets,” Hershman said.

MASTHEAD The Kaiserslautern American is published by AdvantiPro GmbH, Kaiserslautern, Germany, a private firm in no way connected with the Department of the Air Force or the Department of the Army, under exclusive contract with the 86th Airlift Wing. This commercial enterprise newspaper is an authorized publication for members of the military services overseas. Contents of the KA are not necessarily the official view of, or endorsed by, the U.S. government, Department of Defense or Department of the Air Force. The appearance of advertising in this publication, including

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Kaiserslautern American

May 29, 2020 TOWN HALL from Page 1 What do I do if my date of estimated return from overseas extension or registration expires prior to shipping my vehicle? Obtain a registration renewal prior to shipping. A $35 fee is required and QQ plates will come at no charge. If my vehicle has expired temporary plates, what paperwork do I need to bring to the next appointment for permanent plates? Can I do the inspection before the next appointment? Bring the 190-1AA form to inspections. The substation is also open to obtain a one or two year registration. The second year will be an additional $35 fee.

If people have temporary and expired tags, why are those people who are getting inspections being told to complete de-registration and get another temporary registration, but can’t get an appointment? Due to current COVID-19 and physical distancing standards, the amount of people allowed in the office is limited. The U.S. Army Europe Vehicle Registry stated all temporary registrations are good until further notice. Any word on when Sembach vehicle registration will open? Sembach falls under the Army, but we are told they anticipate opening the first or second week of June. What’s the current process

for buying/selling/transferring vehicles? With appointments being limited, personnel who are PCSing, retiring or separating are encouraged to make an appointment on Appointment Plus. If it’s an emergency, that is, if a vehicle isn’t in the system, please have the unit commander or first sergeant send an email to request an earlier appointment. With the current delays in getting orders, can we ship vehicles with some other documentation? i.e. SURF with current DEROS, a Memo in Lieu of Orders? No. Please call DSN 487-7750 or go to pcsmypov.com for more information. For a civilian PCS-ing back to the States, can I ship a

Page 3 vehicle if it’s registered as non-operational? Yes, but there may be issues regarding why it’s non-op. The vehicle must be able to move on and off the loading trucks.

registration, but not a valid safety inspection. Can we sign guests in on base? Based on current local guidelines, no.

When you go to ship your vehicle is it all one process, i.e. inspection/registration all at the same IAL appointment? Pre-checks and marking the condition of the vehicle are done at the same time. Go to vehicle registration afterwards, which would be best with an appointment.

What if we can’t get an appointment before our plates expire? Permanent plate expirations have been extended 60 days. Temporary plates are considered passable by law enforcement and base Esso stations.

Does my vehicle need an inspection prior to shipment? Pre-inspections are offered and recommended to everyone. No appointment is needed and the process takes five to ten minutes. The vehicle will need a valid

The full virtual town hall video can be viewed on the Ramstein Facebook page. Visit the official Ramstein website at www. ramstein.af.mil and go to the COVID-19 tab located in the top right side of the page for the most up-to-date information.


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May 29, 2020

THE HOUSING HYPE

TAKE NOTE Photo by Golubovy / Shutterstock.com

(RAO) is closed until further notice. For urgent situations (until we re-open our doors) that would normally be addressed to the RAO, you can email jim.barrante@ fcgh.net.

Road closure Due to construction, motorists usually traveling on L363 will be detoured through West Gate Road from May 30 to June 2. As a result, traffic congestion will increase along with time getting to and from the base, and drivers should plan for delays, maintain awareness, and follow posted signs.

RAO Director needed The Retiree Activities Office, a volunteer-based organization that supports retirees, active-duty members and spouses throughout the KMC, has an immediate opening for a new director. The RAO functions as a liaison between the retiree population and the 86th AW commander. For more information about this position or how to volunteer, please contact the acting director at Jim.Barrante@gmail.com or call 0160 454 0062.

Attention all retirees and surviving spouses The 86 AW Retiree Activities Office

COMMUNITY EVENTS Photo by Andrey_Popov/Shutterstock.com

»» Home Shopping Bazaar: The first ever Home

Disinfection: Pulaski Automotive Skills

Shopping Bazaar will be hosted as a Facebook event on both the Rheinland-Pfalz MWR and Baumholder MWR Facebook pages June 2-5. Monshau Mustard will be offering over 20 types of handcrafted mustards, venison salami, vinegars and other delicacies along with Sapore with their Italian food items you love such as Sicilian cookies, truffles, pesto, salamis, cheeses and of course, cannoli! Enjoy the goodies of a bazaar from home. Call in your orders to a personal shopper who will take your order, collect your items, and answer any questions you might have. All you have to do is pick them up outside the KCAC on Daenner Kaserne, Bldg. 3109. For more information, head to our Facebook pages: facebook.com/ RheinlandPfalzFWMR or facebook.com/ BaumholderFMWR for event details. »» Outdoor Fitness Classes: While the fitness centers are closed in the USAG RP Garrison, take your fitness outside with free classes that offer a variety of options such as yoga, HIIT and Zumba just to name a few! Outdoor classes are being held at the tennis courts located behind Armstrong’s Club on Vogelweh Housing, Pulaski Bks. (either at Pulaski Park or the track) as well as outside the fitness centers located on Landstuhl, Rhine Ordnance Bks., and Minick Field on Smith Bks. For class times, locations and descriptions, visit Kaiserslautern.armymwr. com or Baumholder.armymwr.com. »» Virtual Summer Reading Program: USAG RP Libraries are preparing the much anticipated Summer Reading Program, which has gone virtual this year! USAG RP Library Baumholder program dates are June 9-Aug. 31. USAG RP Branch Library Kleber and USAG RP Library Landstuhl dates are June 8-Aug. 14. For more information on how to sign up, contact your local library or go to Kaiserslautern.armymwr.com or Baumholder.armymwr.com.

Center and Baumholder Automotive Skills Center are now offering an Interior Disinfection service, taking your standard detail to a whole new level! Prices start at $60 (determined by size of the vehicle) and include a car wash. For more information or to make an appointment, contact Pulaski Automotive Skills Center, Mon-Sun, 9 a.m.-5 p.m., Pulaski Bks., Bldg. 2859, 0631-3502323 or Baumholder Automotive Skills Center, Tue-Sat, 9 a.m.-5 p.m., Smith Bks., Bldg. 8438, 531-2949, 0611-143-531-2949. »» Arts & Crafts Centers now open: The Arts & Crafts Centers (Smith Bks., Bldgs 8104, 8661) are open: Main store, Tue-Fri, 11 a.m.6 p.m. & Sat 12-5 p.m. Arts & Crafts Too, Mon-Fri 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Currently classes are suspended but services such as custom framing, engraving, balloon orders, limited ceramics and bisque painting as well as the photo kiosk are still available. Stop by to take advantage of the current special offers: 50% off 4th of July items (main store only), 20% off select foil balloons, 10% off all gift baskets, and 10% off all blank ceramics. For more information, contact Arts & Crafts Center, Smith Bks., Bldg. 8104, 531-2895, 0611-143-531-2895 or Arts & Crafts Too, Smith Bks., Bldg. 8661, 531-2849, 0611143-531-2849.

»» Automotive Skills Centers Now Offer Interior

»» More than you would expect from a golf course: Rolling Hills Golf Course is more

than just a beautiful nine-hole course! Did you know that Foot Golf and Disc Golf are also available on site? Both offer a fun way to switch up your PT routine, and also are great for a family day outside! The Disc Golf course is one of the most sought courses in Europe, all in your own backyard! Rental for everything you need is available if you don’t have your own equipment. For more information, contact Rolling Hills Golf Course, Wetzel Kaserne, Bldg. 8888, 4857299, 0678-36-7299.

SPONSORS: Housing Office In-Processing Update If you’re a sponsor for a new arrival assigned to the Kaiserslautern Military Community, there is a requirement to have housing eligible(s) in-process with the KMC Housing Office. However, because of COVID-19, the Housing Office is currently operating with virtual appointments.We will still provide your family with a“one-on-one”housing counselor. Active-duty service members are eligible to apply for on-base family housing. To be placed on the waitlist, you’ll annotate this on the housing application (DD 1746) and submit all of the required documentation. Upon receipt and verification, the service member’s eligibility date will be based on the date that the member signed out of the losing installation. A housing offer (after arrival) will be made based on housing availability. As always, the KMC Housing Office works to ensure a smooth and non-stressful approach to the in-processing experience during personnel moves. So, here is a short list of the required steps/ documents to receive assistance from the KMC Housing Office: Housing In-processing Checklist: Contact the Housing Assistance Section for: • Virtual Housing Briefing • Discuss Housing Policies • Understanding the Incoming TLA Process • On-base Waitlist Status • Off-base Housing Search Housing applicants must have their Housing Briefing within 48 hours after the initial arrival. The Housing Office is located on Vogelweh, Building 1001. Housing questions/concerns, please call: Assistance Section: DSN: 314-489-6672 – Commercial: 49+ 0631-536-6672 Facilities Section: DSN: 314-489-7108 - Commercial: 49+ 0631-536-7108 Furnishings Management: DSN: 314-489-6001 - Commercial: 49+ 0631-536-6001 Housing Referral (off-base): DSN: 314-489-6643/6659 – Commercial: 49+ 0631-536-6643/6659 Unaccompanied Housing (480-Dorm): DSN: 314-480-3676 – Commercial: 49+ 06371-47-3676 Email: KMCHousing@us.af.mil Follow us on Facebook : https://www.facebook.com/KMCHousingOffice/

KMC BLOTTER

COMPILED BY THE 569TH USFPS AND 86TH SFS

Photo by Schmidt_Alex / Shutterstock.com

MAY 18 9:37 a.m.: Damage and larceny of government property on Vogelweh Main Base. 11:29 a.m.: Damage to government property on Vogelweh Family Housing 7:09 p.m.: Major traffic collision on A6, direction east, near Sinsheim 9:00 p.m.: Driving under the influence in Olsbruecken

9:56 p.m.: Larceny of government property and negligent loss of government property in Kaiserslautern

MAY 19 2:38 p.m.: Major traffic collision in Landstuhl 2:58 a.m.: Major traffic collision in Huetschenhausen 5:29 p.m.: Leaving the scene of an accident on Vogehweh Family Housing Gate 9:00 p.m.: Damage to personal property on Vogelweh Family Housing

MAY 22 Nothing significant to report

MAY 20 2:29 p.m.: Reckless operation of a vehicle in Siegelbach

MAY 21 6:35 a.m.: Major Traffic Collision in L469, direction Mittelbrunn, near Mittelbrunn 4:58 p.m.: Major Traffic Collision in Kaiserslautern

MAY 23 3:10 a.m.: Driving while impaired, causing a minor traffic accident in RamsteinMiesenbach 3:35 a.m.: Damage to personal property in Kaiserslautern MAY 24 Nothing significant to report

Editor’s note: The purpose of the weekly blotter is to deliver a chronological listing of criminal activity in the KMC. The information contained in the blotter is not indicative of crime trends or the targeting of service members or their dependents. The location and nature of the entries is dependent upon where the crime was reported and not necessarily where the crime took place.

Photo courtesy of the Housing Office

COVID-19 updates for KMC Personnel looking for updated information regarding coronavirus and changes to base facilities can visit www.ramstein. af.mil/COVID-19/


Kaiserslautern American

May 29, 2020

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Strengthening force protection: 435 CRSS air advisors provide Bulgarian air force way forward Story and photos by Staff Sgt. Devin Boyer 86th Airlift Wing Public Affairs The 435th Contingency Response Support Squadron air advisors conducted a virtual meeting with Bulgarian air force personnel from Graf Ignatievo Air Base to discuss force protection capabilities, May 19. In preparation for the arrival of the Bulgarian air force’s F-16 fleet, the Bulgarian force protection team at Graf Ignatievo Air Base wanted to find ways to utilize their manning that maximizes security for their base and allocates time for essential training. The air advisors provided potential courses of action, enabling the team to achieve their goals while sustaining the new assets when they arrive. “The overall goal was to get after their desires of combining several force protection teams into one unit, and show them how to utilize their manning in a different way that’s more efficient to secure their airbase,” said Master Sgt. Daniel Williams, 435th CRSS air advisor flight chief. By assessing the information provided by the Bulgarian force protection team, the air advisors developed a few possible schedules to coincide with the proposed unit structure. “The Bulgarian force protection team is getting a tailored solution for one of their challenges, and we do our very best to ensure the products

U.S. Air Force Master Sgt. Daniel Williams, 435th Contingency Response Support Squadron air advisor flight chief, left, and Capt. Daniel McKeown, 435th CRSS assistant director of operations, conduct a virtual meeting from Ramstein Air Base with Bulgarian air force personnel assigned to the force protection team at Graf Ignatievo Air Base, Bulgaria, May 19. In preparation for the arrival of the Bulgarian air force’s F-16 fleet, the Bulgarian force protection team at Graf Ignatievo Air Base wanted to find ways to utilize their manning that maximizes security for their base and allocates time for essential training. The air advisors provided potential courses of action, enabling the team to achieve their goals while sustaining the new assets when they arrive.

we provide them are things they can use,” said Capt. Daniel McKeown, 435th CRSS assistant director of operations. “Now we can give them a product and walk them through the thought process, and explain to them why we recommended these three different schedules.” Normally, air advisors would discuss topics such as these at the ally’s base in their home country. However, COVID-19 put a stop to air advisor missions involving travel. Through virtual means,

McKeown and Williams were able to screen-share their resources to the force protection team while walking them through their thought process. “I think doing this (video teleconference) only increases that partnership ten-fold,” Williams said. “It proves to them that we aren’t just sitting here at our base focused on ourselves. It shows them that even during this time, we are still focused on our partnership — on strengthening our team. The more they can

U.S. Air Force Capt. Daniel McKeown, 435th Contingency Response Support Squadron assistant director of operations, discusses duty schedules during a virtual meeting from Ramstein Air Base, with Bulgarian air force personnel assigned to the force protection team at Graf Ignatievo Air Base, Bulgaria, May 19.

increase their own footprint in this theater allows us to decrease our activity in that area which saves us time, money, and our blood and treasure of our Airmen.” McKeown added that it saves the host nation time and money as well because hosting another nation’s military can be resource intensive. By conducting the teleconference, the air advisors were able to accomplish the mission while furthering the partnership. However, discussing these topics would not be as

effective if they didn’t already have a relationship established in the first place. “You can’t replace the boots-onthe-ground partnership, but once the partnership is built, this is proof that we can continue to move forward,” Williams said. Williams said as the first-ever virtual mil-to-mil engagement, this has a chance of shaping the way the Bulgarian force protection teams safeguard their air bases across their entire air force. Between the experiences and knowledge from both U.S. and Bulgarian air forces, the team can come to a solution which best suits the needs of the allied partners. “That’s our goal; to get them to understand that our way might not be the right way, their way might not be the right way either, but there’s a hybrid that we have to find that’s going to work best for them,” Williams said. The air advisors plan to continue missions through virtual means in the future, even after the stop movement is lifted. However, it will not replace their normal missions as it is most effective to meet face-to-face with allied partners. “At the end of the day, as our allies, we want to know what their concerns are, and we want to be able to show their concerns are our concerns because we’re in this together as a partnership for peace,” Williams said. “Whenever we can find that commonality and get those interests to align, it’s a huge win for us.”


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May 29, 2020

Air Force delays mandatory wear-date for 2PFDU, OCP items by Staff Sgt. Sahara L. Fales Air Force’s Personnel Center Public Affairs • In an effort to reduce unnecessary stress on Airmen and Space professionals during COVID-19 restrictions, several uniform changes scheduled to become mandatory for the Operational Camouflage Pattern and Two-Piece Flight Duty Uniform on June 1, have been delayed to Sept. 1. The changes for each uniform are detailed in Air Force Instruction 36-2903, Dress and Appearance of Air Force Personnel. Mandatory wear of the Operational Camouflage Pattern Uniform remains April 2021. The changes that become mandatory in September for the OCP include: • Officer rank insignia will be Spice Brown (exception: First Lieutenant and Lieutenant Colonel rank insignia will be Black). • The U.S. flag patch will be mandatory and the only authorized color is Spice Brown (cloth). Airmen will wear the flag while in garrison and deployed. Infrared U.S. flags are not authorized. • The authorized T-shirt color will be Coyote Brown (listed as Tan 499 per AAFES nomenclature) only. If purchasing Coyote Brown shirts from outside retailers, uniformed members should ensure FORWARD TOGETHER from Page 1 “We began by figuring out what our left and right boundaries were,” said Thompson, a 36-year Air Force veteran. “Our marching orders were to take care of the humans that live, breathe, and work at these installations.” Green and blue parts of the puzzle More than 50,000 Americans call the Kaiserslautern Military Community home. Its footprint includes dozens of mutual-use facilities. Some are ‘owned’ by the Air Force. The Army owns some. Contractions of services and some operations due to COVID-19 began around Feb. 15. Many here believe the KMC is a ‘joint’ military installation like ones found in the U.S., which share some resources and make mutual decisions. While the entire community uses shared assets like child development centers, schools, vehicle registration and others, the business of the Air Force and Army here is separate. In a 2013 paper for the Army War College about potential joint operations, Army Col. William S. Galbraith wrote, “In the military, each of the services has a strong culture. The service culture is deepseated in service personnel at the beginning of their career … Regardless of how someone enters the service, service members spend their time at initial training immersed in their service lifestyle and culture.” Although each is proud of his service roots, the relationship between Edwards and Thompson shaped in meetings, phone calls, chance encounters and elsewhere

• • • • • •

the color matches the authorized Coyote Brown color (Tan 499). The authorized socks will be DLA-issued Green socks or Coyote Brown only. The authorized boot color will be Coyote Brown only. The two exceptions are for Airmen with a medical condition as determined by medical authorities at a civilian or military treatment facility and approved by the commander, and those who must wear black combat boots in industrial areas. The changes that become mandatory in September for the 2PFDU include: All mandatory wear badges must be in place. The cloth U.S. flag will be the Spice Brown color only. The authorized socks will be DLA-issued Green socks or Coyote Brown only. The authorized boot color will be Coyote Brown only. The only authorized color for thermal undergarments will be Coyote Brown.

For more information, please review Air Force Instruction 36-2903, Dress and Appearance of Air Force Personnel, or visit our website at https://www.afpc. af.mil/Career-Management/Dress-andAppearance/.

The mandatory wear-date for certain OCP and 2PFDU items was pushed to Sept. 1.

binds the two. Their professional relationship also aligns their actions and creates a “jointness” that ensures each service works in concert with the other. “We linked up on everything from the start – the gyms, stores, child development centers, even the food trucks, and the ice cream guy,” Thompson said. “Jay is very approachable. We’d already formed a great relationship, and there was trust, so for this situation, it was very easy to fall back on that relationship and make things happen.” That doesn’t mean they always agree. The Army won’t always do what the Air Force does and vice versa. The services had differing ideas on what was best for the people in their charge. That meant Ramstein using different screening procedures than the garrison, which Thompson said was the only thing the two services separated on. “In the end, it’s like family. Sometimes, you just don’t come to an agreement, so you accept it and move on. And in the end, I think that actually helped us both in a couple of ways,” Thompson said. “If there was an issue, we were going to talk through it.” For instance, both sides agreed that the first facility to close would be the nine shared child development centers. The 10 fitness centers were a close second. Then, other facilities followed. “Closing CDCs affects so many who had to either stop working or make large changes to their schedules,” said Edwards, who was familiar with quality-of-life impacts when supporting service members in Japan for the disaster relief following the 2011 Tohoku earthquake and tsunami. “That’s one we have to get absolutely right.”

There’s still work to do While the coronavirus crisis has meant significant changes to both sides’ military business, the mission still rolls on for both commanders. Thompson and the 86th Airlift Wing have continued their airlift mission, including ferrying needed medical supplies to Italy and other countries. Meanwhile, U.S. Army Garrison Rheinland-Pfalz continues to serve as the Army’s premier strategic readiness platform overseas. The Army’s Installation Management Command praised Edwards and other Army garrison commanders for leading the way in community response. “Garrison commanders are the center of gravity in this fight,” said Lt. Gen. Douglas M. Gabram, IMCOM’s commanding general. “Their leadership has been decisive; they are leading the Army through this at the tactical level.” Air Force Chief of Staff Gen. David Goldfein emphasized the continuance of the mission through several updates, drawing a line to mission support group commanders like Thompson. “We’ve changed operations significantly all through this. What I asked the [major command] commanders to do so that we were doing this from a senior leadership perspective the right way is, OK, in this environment, let’s identify the mission essential tasks that we have got to put resources (against).” Communication throughout, between the two commanders and to their respective audiences, has been vital. Almost weekly since the start of the crisis, both commanders have talked to the community through live video town halls and American Forces Network radio. They reach out through the

military newspaper, via email and every other conceivable channel to keep tens of thousands of people updated, including family and friends back in the United States. There have been meetings and meetings and meetings, and both have lost count of the number of phones they’ve had and continue to have, even as the situation begins to settle. “We go together, and we were going to do it right together,” said Edwards. The way ahead Through the crisis, the Michigander and Pennsylvanian — who share more than 50 years of military service — were quick to note that any success found through the coronavirus crisis is because of strong relationships. “We have been open and transparent with one another from the start,” Edwards said. “We’ve always had a synergy, a great give and take.” “This is about relationships. I made a very pointed effort to work on building our relationship when I arrived here. I saw that part as essential to my command,” Thompson, said. “We’re dealing with a global pandemic. Some of these are life and death decisions, and the trust I had in our working relationship was never in doubt.” Edwards said for the fight against COVID, if the Army is winning, “we’re winning. And if the Air Force is winning, we’re winning. And that’s all I want to see – is that we’re winning. I have no doubts about how we’ll work and grow in the future,” he added. “In our relationship working as a team and solving problems, I have a very positive outlook. We will be in great shape for years to come.”


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Airlifter of the Week: Helping COVID-19 patients fly Story and photos by Airman 1st Class Taylor D. Slater 86th Airlift Wing Public Affairs Much like Airmen, aircraft need support. One kind of support comes in the form of fuel. Aircraft readiness becomes increasingly important during the COVID-19 pandemic, as many countries rely on aid to help prevent the spread of disease. Senior Airman Juan Castro, 86th Logistics Readiness Squadron fuels distribution operator, understands the importance of his job at the end of every shift. ”We have a saying: ‘Without fuel, a pilot is a pedestrian,’” Castro said. Brig. Gen. Mark R. August, 86th Airlift Wing commander, and Chief Master Sgt. Ernesto Rendon, 86th AW command chief, recognized Castro as Airlifter of the Week for outstanding performance. Due to COVID-19, Chief Master Sgt Erik Bensen, 86th LRS fuels manager, presented the coin to Castro in their place while wing leadership shared some words through virtual means. “I’m grateful for the opportunity to support a mission that’s getting these people wherever they need to get treated,” Castro said. “It’s cool to be a part of that.” Castro thanks his flight and leadership for their support and in getting him to the title of Airlifter of the Week. “They are always there in case I need anything,” Castro said. “Whenever I have

personal stuff going on, they’re always there to support me.” Another pillar of support in Castro’s life has been his family. Spending more time with his family has been one of the positives of the outbreak. Castro lives with his expecting wife and two young children. Before COVID19, he spent nearly three years hiking and traveling throughout Europe with his family to places such as Munich, Bavaria, Disneyland Paris, France and Luxembourg. “Before I married my wife, I told her I was thinking about joining the Air Force and that I’d take her to Switzerland,” Castro said. “Next thing we knew, I got orders to Ramstein and a dream became a reality.” That was until the pandemic happened. Although Castro’s dreams of Switzerland came to a halt, he said he is still thankful for the extra time with his family. He teaches his children to play games, helps his wife with housework and goes out with them on walks. “Hopefully, we can get through this and later I can tell my kids, ‘Hey, you know I helped support some of these missions to help people get treated,’” Castro said. As one of two personnel on shift qualified to issue fuel to aircraft carrying COVID-19 patients, Castro has been an indispensable help for aircraft in COVID19 operations. He issued more than 100,000 gallons of fuel during the pan-

U.S. Air Force Senior Airman Juan Castro, 86th Logistics Readiness Squadron fuels distribution operator, pulls up a moosehead after refueling an aircraft at Ramstein Air Base, May 16. Castro’s fuel support has enabled the transport of hundreds of testing swabs during the COVID-19 pandemic.

U.S. Air Force Senior Airman Juan Castro, 86th Logistics Readiness Squadron fuels distribution operator, discusses fuels operations at Ramstein Air Base, May 16. Castro was recognized as Airlifter of the Week, a program highlighting outstanding Airmen in the 86th Airlift Wing.

demic. He was the only Airman available to support a no-notice Department of State aircraft hosting a COVID-19 patient and their family members from Afghanistan. Thanks to his support, hundreds of testing swabs and COVID-19 tests arrived safely to countries in need of assistance. COVID-19 operations continue, and while Castro’s job has been affected, it has not stopped. “It’s definitely good to know (people) notice my hard work and appreciate that,” Castro said.

U.S. Air Force Senior Airman Juan Castro, 86th Logistics Readiness Squadron fuels distribution operator, refuels a commercial aircraft at Ramstein Air Base, May 16. Castro is one of two personnel on shift qualified to issue fuel to aircraft transporting patients with COVID-19.

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U.S. Air Force Senior Airman Juan Castro, 86th Logistics Readiness Squadron fuels distribution operator, poses for a photo with his family at Disneyland Paris in France, Jan. 29, 2019. Castro was recognized as Airlifter of the Week, a program highlighting outstanding Airmen in the 86th Airlift Wing. He considers his family as a pillar of support, enabling him to succeed at his job. Courtesy Photo


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Kaiserslautern American

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May 29, 2020

Garrison “people strategy” focuses on Army’s number one priority Story and photo by Jason Tudor U.S. Army Garrison Rheinland-Pfalz Bolstering civilian capabilities and developing high-caliber employees are two of the many facets of a new strategy at U.S. Army Garrison Rheinland-Pfalz that keeps Army people as the number one priority. The Garrison People Strategy takes many of its cues from the broader Army People Strategy created in October 2019. Army People Strategy helps Soldiers and civilians better assist with readiness, modernization, and reform. The local strategy amplifies APS and focuses on bolstering civilian capabilities here to enhance garrison success. Part of the effort is refinement of current programs, but another comes out of necessity, according to one of the garrison's senior leaders. “Over the next four to five years, we're going to lose quite a bit of our senior workforce,” said Dr. Kevin Griess, deputy to the garrison commander and the senior civilian on point for the implementation of the local strategy. “I was concerned about both the knowledge and experience that would be lost. I was also concerned that our civilian personnel system and making replacements isn't compatible with a surge loss like that.” While the number of separations, retirements, and movements is a continually moving target, Griess said the number rests somewhere between 150-200 employees. Part of the exodus is due to the creation of the Rheinland-Pfalz garrison -- the Army's premier strategic readiness platform overseas, which was welded together from several other installations in 2013. The Army reassigned some employees who worked in Heidelberg, Mannheim and other German cities here. Now many of them have reached retirement age or are moving on to other opportunities. “I became concerned about estab-

tion to make the organization strong, and then talent will want to come to us. If you build a fantastic organization, they will come,” he said. And while the strategy evolves (some of the efforts have been delayed because of the Coronavirus crisis), the group also wants to cultivate an Installation Management Center of Excellence. “Change is occurring, and people will never want to go back to where it was,” Griess said.

In these file photos from 2020, civilian workers keep the garrison running before and during the Coronavirus crisis. USAG Rheinland-Pfalz civilians will have new opportunities for growth under the garrison's new local people strategy, including education with potential college credit.

lishing an environment and organization that could adapt to that type of impact, both lost knowledge and lost people,” Griess said. “Everybody's here to serve. Nobody is simply biding time. We leaders are judged by our actions, not our words. So, our first step is to develop a strategy, then ensure our people are the number one component of that strategy.” Army Chief of Staff Gen. James McConville reinforced Griess' words during the 2019 Association of the United States Army conference. “The Army is people. It's our most important asset. It's our most important weapon system. So, to me, people is our number one priority,” McConville said. The structure & a task force For its 31 sites in Germany, Romania and Bulgaria, the garrison employs more than 700 appropri-

ated fund and local-national civilian employees, and about 500 nonappropriated fund workers. As part of the local people strategy, three basic areas are set as guideposts in the local strategy: educate, train and credential. Those reinforce the pillars of the local strategy: acculturation, management and supervision, professional and technical skill, and workforce/leadership professional development. From that emerges Task Force Five, a sort of Avengers-meets-Lean Six Sigma-meets The Office local cadre keenly focused on tactics and training. They are the ground-pounders creating instructional products, working to get training efforts certified by a local university (that's done) and build a cadre of adjunct instructors to fulfill the strategy's goals (that's underway). The 'Five' stands for five elements: learning, leading, serving, humanizing, and trusting. John O'Brien, chief

of plans, analysis, and integration, said the 'Five' are at the heart of the effort. “They demonstrate what is valued to us and how we want to operate as a team.” Directors/chiefs play a large role The garrison’s directors and chiefs bear much of the weight for the strategy's success. Michael Waschek, director of human resources, supervises 92 people. “It all starts with engagement. Every employee has to be engaged in the process, and they have to want to be a part of this,” Waschek said. Every civilian employee contributes something and ensuring the right people for the right role matters, according to the Army People Strategy. To that end, Griess said there also has to be a paramount effort made to fill gaps and acquire local talent. “I want to make this organization the employer of choice by first investing in who's already in the organiza-

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What does success look like? To succeed, Griess, O'Brien and team must meet the goals set atop the aforementioned five pillars. With a 24-month timeline to achieve a number of milestones, O'Brien knows there's much to be done. “We, as an organization, have the duty to ensure what we're doing is bringing value and we're constantly putting our fingers on the pulse to determine whether or not we are actually achieving those that have value,” he said. Griess summarized success as a matter of desire for each employee. “Every single person wants to have an opportunity to succeed. We have an obligation as leadership to provide that opportunity,” he said. Garrison Commander Jason T. Edwards said he believes the Garrison People Strategy is exactly what's needed for an organization that continues to expand in scope, responsibility and size, with the recent garrison management acquisition of Mihail Kogalniceanu Air Base, Romania, and the Nova Selo Training Area, Bulgaria. “As this evolves, our team will attack readiness, modernization and reform in ways no other garrison will, making the total team of Soldiers, civilians and family members - a powerful force in Installation Management Command, Army Materiel Command and Big Army,” Edwards said. “People are our most valuable resource and we must ensure they are trained, ready and we can create an environment where Soldiers and civilians can not only work, but excel. We want to promote initiative and allow our personnel to develop. This is all about being the number one place to work and live.” In the end, getting the people piece right for the Army at USAG RheinlandPfalz and elsewhere helps win wars. During a September 2019 speech to the National Guard Association, McConville emphasized the point. “Remember two things: winning matters and people are my number one priority because [we] serve to defend the nation and we send the United States Army somewhere we don't go to participate. We don't go to try hard. We go to win.”


May 29, 2020

Kaiserslautern American

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Kaiserslautern American

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“We Attack” battalion maintains combat proficiency during COVID-19 Pfc. Alexander Miller, 5th Battalion, 4th Air Defense Artillery Regiment, 10th Army Air & Missile Defense Command, air and missile defense crewmember, loads M3P .50 caliber machine gun ammunition into a magazine on Shipton Kaserne, Ansbach, April 30 prior to conducting training.

Sgt. Anthony Longres, 5th Battalion, 4th Air Defense Artillery Regiment, 10th Army Air & Missile Defense Command, air and missile defense crewmember, loads M3P .50 caliber machine gun ammunition onto an Avenger short-range air defense missile system on Shipton Kaserne, Ansbach, April 30 during training.

Story and photos by Dani Johnson With the mission of providing short-range air defense, 5th Battalion, 4th Air Defense Artillery Regiment (5-4 ADAR), 10th Army Air & Missile Defense Command, continues to train during the COVID-19 pandemic. Operating the Avenger, a selfpropelled short-range air defense missile system, the assigned 14P air and missile defense crewmembers must maintain a Table 8 certification to remain proficient. There are 10 tables total for an Avenger crew. Tables are a tiered approach to certifying crews according to Lt. Col. Todd Daniels, 5-4 ADAR commander. Each table is progressively more challenging

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and complex. The Soldiers must pass all previous tables (or steps) to continue to the next until they reach the eighth table, which certifies them as a team able to employ their Avenger in combat. “We are replicating everything the crews would do on a live fire range, minus them actually firing live rounds,” said Sgt. 1st Class Shawn Richardson, battalion master gunner. “According to our gunnery training circular, every table that these crews had to do prior to going to a live fire are being accomplished in this (COVID-19) environment right now.” According to Richardson, the only physical distancing challenge is when the crews have to pass off the Stinger missiles when loading

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the Avenger. It has also changed the way some of the master gunners train. “I can’t get in there with my hands and show them,” said Richardson. “I can voice it and have them replicate what I’m telling them.” Creating a sense of realism is the biggest challenge when it comes to training. “I get it, it’s kind of like a video game (referring to the Avenger Table Top Trainer (AT3)) so the level of urgency might not be there,” said Staff Sgt. Christopher Long, Charlie Battery master gunner. “What we did was designed new scenarios on the tabletop trainers to make it little more difficult, a little more realistic so

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these guys can get some quality training and it’s not a check the block thing.” Improving the proficiency of the crews while maintaining combat power is the ultimate goal of the battalion during peacetime or pandemic times. “It’s still getting us spun up on the stuff that we need to know and we get a lot more time to work on (the AT3) so once we get out on a real Avenger system, it’s pretty much the same thing and we know exactly what to do,” said Sgt. Emmanuel Hopkins, Charlie Battery air and missile defense crewmember. “It’s great practice especially for the new guys just getting hands on, mistakes can be made now (before a live fire).”

The “We Attack” battalion conducts all the training on Shipton Kaserne and, once certified all the crews are qualified for six months. “I am extremely proud of how our units are continuing to train in this new environment. They continually find new and creative ways to not only maintain their units' readiness, but actually improve it,” said Daniels. “While our opportunities for collective training with other units was delayed due to COVID-19, we maximized the time to improve our Soldiers' lethality at the individual and crew level while minimizing the risk of exposure to COVID-19 through employment of appropriate force health protection measures.”

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Pfc. Kavon Foster, at the controls, and Cpl. Antonio Irvin, both 5th Battalion, 4th Air Defense Artillery Regiment, 10th Army Air & Missile Defense Command, air and missile defense crewmembers, conduct Avenger gunnery table 8 scenario on an Avenger Table Top Trainer on Shipton Kaserne May 4. The crews are maintaining their combat proficiency in a COVID-19 environment. Photo by Emily Hill


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May 29, 2020

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American children remembered in annual memorial service Story and photos by Airman 1st Class John R. Wright 86th Airlift Wing Public Affairs Leaders from the Kaiserslautern Military Community and city of Kaiserslautern gathered for the annual Kindergraves memorial service at the Kaiserslautern Main Cemetery, Kaiserslautern, May 16. Representatives from the Ram- stein Area Chief’s Group, German-American and International Women’s Club and the Kaiserslautern Mayor’s Office attended the annual memorial service to honor and remember 451 American children who were buried in the Kaiserslautern Main Cemetery between 1952 and 1971. At the time, government and Red Cross resources were unavailable to send the children, mainly infants who died before 3 months of age, back to the U.S. for burial. Since stateside burials were not possible, the city of Kaiserslautern donated the use of public burial plots for the infants, who were

predominantly children of parents stationed in the KMC. The city’s gesture was made under the condition that the burial sites be maintained by local groups associated with the military community. Members of the GermanAmerican Women’s Club fulfilled this role early on, but when the initial lease for the burial sites was set to expire, the Ramstein Area Chief’s Group stepped in to serve as the entrusted agent for a new lease with the city of Kaiserslautern. In 1986 the Kaiserslautern Kindergraves Memorial Foundation was established with representatives from the Ramstein Area Chief’s Group and the German-American and International Women’s Club serving as co-chairs. The KKMF sponsors the annual memorial service in coordination with the KMC and city officials. The service includes laying of wreaths and a blessing of the graves. The foundation maintains the memorial site throughout the year by volunteer work and donations from the local community.

A floral wreath presented by the Ramstein Area Chief’s Group lays in front of the American Kindergraves memorial site in the Kaiserslautern Main Cemetery, Kaiserslautern, May 16. The Ramstein Area Chief’s Group stepped in to serve as the entrusted agent for a new lease with the city of Kaiserslautern when the initial lease for the burial site was set to expire in 1986.

An American flag stands next to a grave at the Kindergraves memorial site in the Kaiserslautern Main Cemetery, May 16. As part of an annual memorial service sponsored by the Kaiserslautern Kindergraves Memorial Foundation, in coordination with the Kaiserslautern Military Community and city officials, a flower and an American flag are placed at each grave marker in the burial site. A statue of Mary holding baby Jesus looks over the Kindergraves memorial site in the Kaiserslautern Main Cemetery, May 16. Leaders from the Ramstein Area Chief’s Group, German-American and International Women’s Club and the Kaiserslautern Mayor’s Office attended an annual memorial service to honor and remember 451 American children who were buried in the Kaiserslautern Main Cemetery between 1952 and 1971. WE D E MOVO T

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A floral wreath presented by the GermanAmerican and International Women’s Club lays in front of the American Kindergraves memorial site in the Kaiserslautern Main Cemetery, May 16. The German-American and International Women’s Club serves as co-chair with the Ramstein Area Chief’s Group for the Kaiserslautern Kindergraves Memorial Foundation, established in 1986.

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Kaiserslautern American

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May 29, 2020

Putting people first: 721 MXS NCO secures Air Force level award

by Staff Sgt. Nesha Humes Stanton 86th Airlift Wing Public Affairs Growing up in Harrisburg, South Dakota, Staff Sgt. Taylor Eide worked for his father at a local hardware shop, and admired his management style of always looking out for his employees. Every year when bonuses rolled around, his father would ensure those who didn’t receive some extra money, yet were equally deserving, were compensated for their hard work by

splitting his annual check with his employees. “He puts all of his individuals first,” Eide said, a 721st Aircraft Maintenance Squadron quality assurance inspector. “It’s a value I’ve always tried to live up to. The more people like how you treat them, the harder they will work for you.” Eide is a result of his father’s philosophy. An aircraft hydraulic systems craftsman, Eide was recognized as the 2019 Lt. Gen. Leo Marquez technician category award recipient for dem-

Kaiserslautern Military CoMMunity Chapel sChedule ARMY POC for Miesau, Landstuhl, and Deanner is the USAG R-P Chaplain’s Office in Bldg 3213 on Kleber Kaserne, DSN 541-2105, CIV 0611143-541-2105.

Jewish services

AIR FORCE POC for Ramstein North, Ramstein South, Vogelweh, and Kapaun is the USAF Chaplain Corps, Bldg 1201 on Ramstein, DSN 480-6148, CIV 06371-47-6148.

Messianic Jewish services

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Kapaun Chapel (Bldg 2781) Divine Liturgy: 9:00 a.m. Sundays Confessions by appointment

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orthodox Christian services

Ramstein North Chapel Conference Room (Bldg 1201) protestant services Service: 10:30 a.m., 4th Saturday Service: 12:00 p.m., 3rd Thursday at LRMC Chapel Landstuhl Community Chapel (Bldg 3773) For more info: ktownsgibuddhism@gmail.com Worship: 11:00 a.m. Sundays Children’s Youth Church: 11:00 a.m. Sundays Catholic services Daenner Community Chapel (Bldg 3150) Daenner Community Chapel (Bldg 3150) Chapel Next Sunday Mass: 12:30 p.m. (all year round) Worship: Sunday 10:00 a.m. Confession: 11:45 p.m. Children’s Church: Sunday 10:30 a.m. Landstuhl Community Chapel Seventh-Day Adventist Worship Sabbath School: 9:30 a.m. Saturdays (Bldg 3773) Worship: 11:00 a.m. Saturdays Tue, Wed, Fri: 12 p.m. Small Group: 6:00-7:00 p.m. Wednesday Sunday: 9 a.m. Ramstein North Chapel (Bldg 1201) Confession: 8 a.m. Contemporary Service: 11:00 a.m. Sundays Ramstein North Chapel (Bldg 1201) Ramstein South Chapel (Bldg 2403) Daily Mass: 11:30 a.m. Monday-Thursday Traditional with Communion: 9:30 a.m. Sundays Sunday Masses: 9 a.m., 1 p.m. & 5 p.m. Vogelweh Chapel (Bldg 2063) Confession: RNC or by appt. 4 p.m.- 4:45 p.m. Gospel Service: 11:00 a.m. Sundays. Sundays For more info: facebook.com\vogelwehgospelservice or email episcopal (anglican) rvgsfacebook@gmail.com (st. albans) Kapaun Chapel (Bldg 2781) Wiccan Service: 10:30 a.m. Sundays Kapaun Annex (Bldg 2782)

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U.S. Air Force Staff Sgt. Taylor J. Eide, right, 721st Aircraft Maintenance Squadron quality assurance inspector, observes as Staff Sgt. Theodore Ellis, 721st AMXS crew chief craftsman, inspects the anti-collision light of a C-17 Globemaster III aircraft at Ramstein Air Base, May 21, 2020. The exterior portion of a basic combined pre-flight and post-flight inspection determines the suitability for additional flights by performing visual observations and specified checks of certain components, areas and systems. Photos by Tech. Sgt. Jocelyn A. Ford

onstrating the highest degree of sustained job knowledge, performance and efficiency. “I was very surprised, honestly,” Eide said. “I couldn’t have done it without the people on my flight who trained me along the way and guided me in the right direction. Master Sgt. (Waylon) McCullough and Tech Sgt. (Micah) Harrington did an excellent job in helping me capture what I had done in that timeframe. I consider both of them outstanding role models and mentors.” In addition, Eide acknowledged Master Sgt. Andrew Gravett and Master Sgt. Mark Silva as two senior

leaders who always go out of their way to further develop Airmen, a leadership style he hopes to carry-on when he becomes a senior non-commissioned officer. However, the staff sergeant hadn’t always wanted to make a career of the Air Force. When he arrived at Ramstein, his second duty location, his goal was to go back to school after his enlistment, until his section non-commissioned officer in charge, Tech. Sgt. Alex Torelli, sat him down to chat. Torelli recognized Eide was one of the hardest workers within the squadron and wanted to work with him to

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submit an awards package. So, Torelli took Eide under his wing. It was the start of a turning point. Eide went on to earn two quarterly awards and a performer of the month. In addition, he earned the title of Distinguished Graduate in Airman Leadership School in May, 2019. “From day one, Eide has shown an extreme desire to succeed, an infectious positive attitude and a constant strive to better himself,” Harrington said. “Within his career field, he is one of the only engine-run qualified personnel in the squadron. Additionally, Eide is well versed on aircraft fuselage jacking and landing gear operational checkouts which are some of the most complex and rarely seen procedures completed at Ramstein.” By stepping out of his comfort zone to pursue advanced qualifications, Eide’s dedication paid off. He hopes other Airmen do the same. “Go outside of your career field and learn what crew chiefs, electricians or hydraulics do,” Eide said, “At the end of the day, that’s going to help you understand the aircraft as a whole system, not just your little piece of the pie.” Eide continues to pursue his goals, striving to have a similar impact on Airmen as his father does with his employees, and his 721 AMXS mentors have had on him. “Don’t fear failure,” Eide said. “Supervisors should allow their Airman to fail, because when people fail, there is an opportunity for growth. If it wasn’t for my leadership encouraging us to learn and get qualified outside of our scope of responsibility, I wouldn’t be where I am today.” KAISERSLAUTERN

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The 2019 721st Aircraft Maintenance Squadron Lt. Gen. Leo Marquez Award, received by U.S. Air Force Staff Sgt. Taylor J. Eide, 721st AMXS quality assurance inspector, is on display in his home along with the coins he has received thus far in his career, Hütschenhausen, May 20. Eide is also the Air Force level winner in the technician category for demonstrating the highest degree of sustained job knowledge, performance and efficiency.

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May 29, 2020

Kaiserslautern American

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U.S. Air Force Staff Sgt. Taylor J. Eide, 721st Aircraft Maintenance Squadron quality assurance inspector, holds a sign given to him by his aunt at his home in Hütschenhausen, May 20. Eide has received many items with the same scripture, a constant reminder of his strength, and home.

U.S. Air Force Staff Sgt. Taylor J. Eide, right, 721st Aircraft Maintenance Squadron quality assurance inspector, signals to Tech. Sgt. Michael Cain, 721st AMXS flight line expeditor, upon approaching the C-17 Globemaster III aircraft at Ramstein Air Base, May 21. Eide performs regular inspections and identifies discrepancies on flight line and composite tool kit areas.

U.S. Air Force Staff Sgt. Taylor J. Eide, 721st Aircraft Maintenance Squadron quality assurance inspector, explains what it takes to receive the 721st AMXS Knucklebuster Award at his home in Hütschenhausen, May 20. Eide received his award Jan. 2019, as a senior airman working as a hydraulics technician.

U.S. Air Force Staff Sgt. Taylor J. Eide, 721st Aircraft Maintenance Squadron quality assurance inspector, and his fiancé, Staff Sgt. Courtney Loewen, 86th Aeromedical Evacuation Squadron aeromedical evacuation technician, stop to admire the wildlife during an evening walk near their home in Hütschenhausen, May 20. Eide and Loewen take advantage of the nature trails near their village to walk, run or bike regularly.

U.S. Air Force Staff Sgt. Taylor J. Eide, right, 721st Aircraft Maintenance Squadron quality assurance inspector, gives a personal evaluation brief to Staff Sgt. Theodore Ellis, 721st AMXS crew chief craftsman, at Ramstein Air Base, May 21. A brief is given before each personal evaluation to inform the member of the expectations and acceptable quality limits for the evaluation.


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May 29, 2020

Fingerprinting services help prospective employees move into system during pandemic Story and photo by Keith Pannell U.S. Army Garrison Rheinland-Pfalz When some think of being fingerprinted, the scenario usually involves running afoul of the law. But for those being fingerprinted by the U.S. Army Garrison Rheinland-Pfalz S3/5/7 Security Office, it could mean employment. When a prospective employee applies for a job within the garrison, one of the first stops after a tentative offer of employment is the fingerprinting office on Rhine Ordnance Barracks. “We see ourselves as the first line of verification,” said Peter “Buck” Buchikas, security specialist. “We ensure, to the best of our ability, that prospective employees are fully checked and adjudicated so there is very little possibility we get anyone who could have security or childcare issues and pose a danger to our mission and families.” Since the start of the pandemic restrictions for military personnel, the security office has processed 61 prospective garrison employees. That may not sound like a huge number, but due to COVID-19 restrictions, the Baumholder office was closed and the ROB office was doing fingerprints on an emergen-

Buck Buchikas, USAG Rheinland-Pfalz S3/5/7 security office, makes sure the proper part of a potential garrison employee’s finger can be scanned. Once a potential employee receives a tentative employment offer, fingerprints are the first thing needed.

ing measures. But, he was very nice and calm when it was time to do his fingerprints.” Even before the pandemic, fingerprinting was by appointment only. However, since the pandemic restrictions started, customers are advised to wear masks. There is only one customer in the small office at a time and proper distance is maintained, except when it isn’t because of the requirements of the job. “Even though the fingerprinting process is electronic, it still requires us to touch the customer’s hands,” Golden said. “So, we wear masks, gloves, long sleeves and get the process completed as quickly as possible, both for us and the customer.” The security specialists understand the role they play in the hiring process and both say they try to make what is usually the first stop in someone getting a new job a quick and easy experience. The prints are transmitted to the FBI and the result is usually in the Personnel Security system within 24 hours to move the hiring process along.

cy basis only, according to Vanessa Golden, S3/5/7 security specialist. “All of the customers seemed

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Kaiserslautern American

May 29, 2020

Page 17

DAR honors local seniors for good citizenship

Emily Anne Stuart, Ramstein High School

Story and photos by Palatinate Chapter National Society Daughters of the American Revolution The Palatinate Chapter of the National Society Daughters of the American Revolution are pleased to recognize three local seniors from the graduating class of 2020 with the prestigious Good Citizens Award. These students have consistently demonstrated the qualities of dependability, service, leadership, and patriotism to an outstanding degree. The recipients are: Emily Anne Stuart of Ramstein High School, Tresor Emmanuella Assa of Baumholder High School and Elizabeth Alena Ryktarsyk of Kaiserslautern High School. Each of these young women have contributed to the betterment of the schools, organizations and communities to which they belong and are also at the top of their graduating classes. Emily Stuart has been a captain

Tresor Emmanuella Assa, Baumholder High School

for the Kingfish Swim team for past four years and according to swim coach, Mistie Cottrill, “was always an athlete I recommended as an example or a role model for other swimmers.” Stuart was also an active participant in the RHS Student Council, a Writing Center tutor, a Deployment Buddy mentor, and a participant in the 2019 International Student Leadership Institute. She also volunteered at community events like the Ramstein Bazaar and the Post Office Holiday Helpers. According to Stuart, “It is important to be involved in society today because tomorrow it will be up to us to make the important decisions.” Elizabeth Ryktarsyk has been the captain of the KHS Culinary Arts Competition team for the past two years, and according to her culinary arts teacher and golf coach, Mr. Andrew Dager, she led the Culinary Arts team to “an incredible performance producing results that were well

beyond the capabilities of most high school culinary arts students.” Ryktarsyk was also on the golf team, and participated in STEMposium and student ambassadors at RHS. She was heavily involved in the music program of her church congregation and charitable activities such as serving food at a Hypothermia Shelter and volunteering at Vacation Bible School. According to Ryktarsyk, “The American youth are vital for our nation’s future; as such, it is incredibly important that they be inspired to engage as effective citizens for the sake of refining our country to become the best version of itself.” Tresor “Emma” Assa is a native of the Ivory Coast and naturalized U.S. citizen. And according to her A.P. English Literature teacher, Ms. Heather Bohon-Donalson, in addition to the many local activities and leadership positions she holds, “Emma is also the founder of Ensemble, an organization dedicated to helping young moth-

Elizabeth Alena Ryktarsyk, Kaiserslautern High School

ers by collecting clothes, diapers, won American independence duretc. and donating them to the ing the Revolutionary War. With local hospital at her previous more than 185,000 members in home in the Ivory Coast. While approximately 3,000 chapters Ensemble is only working locally worldwide, DAR is one of the for now, Emma’s goal is to take world's largest and most active her organization worldwide.” service organizations. DAR memAt BMS, Emma was a mem- bers are committed to volunteer ber of the basketball and soccer service, having served more than teams, President of Educator’s 12.5 million hours in communiRising, President of the ECO- ties throughout the world during friendly Club, AVID math tutor, the past three years. Keystone, and JROTC Color Guard. In the local community, To learn more about the work she is a key leader with the New of today's DAR, visit www. Friendships Generation Program, DAR.org or connect with DAR teaching English and sharing on social media at facebook. American culture at the German com/TodaysDAR, twitter.com/ Kindergarten in Rushberg. TodaysDAR and youtube.com/ According to Assa, “Although, I TodaysDAR. am not originally American, I still have this country’s best interest at heart.” The National Society Daughters of the American Revolution was THAI / SPORT / FITNESS / SEN founded in 1890 to promote historic preservation, education PLEASE CALL FOR APPOINTMENT and patriotism. Its members are  0176 • 62 19 77 28 descended from the patriots who Akazienstrasse 1a • 66849 Landstuhl-Atzel

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Kaiserslautern American

May 29, 2020

52 MXG teams up with 435 CRS to get hot pit certified

Photos by Senior Airman Branden Rae 52nd Fighter Wing Public Affairs

U.S. Air Force maintainers from the 435th Contingency Response Squadron, from Ramstein Air Base, work alongside 52nd Maintenance Group Airmen to get certified on hot pit refueling operations on the flightline at Spangdahlem Air Base, May 18. Hot pit refueling is a procedure performed in a combat environment to rapidly refuel aircraft while the aircraft engines are running, resulting in speedy refueling and faster aircraft regeneration.

U.S. Air Force Senior Airman Tyler Sommerfield, left, and Senior Airman Cortavious Stepney, right, 435th Contingency Response Squadron contingency response crew chiefs, from Ramstein Air Base, signal each other while practicing hot pit refueling on the flightline at Spangdahlem Air Base, May 18.

U.S. Air Force Senior Airman Andrew Domingo, 435th Contingency Response Squadron contingency response crew chief, from Ramstein Air Base, practices attaching a fuel nozzle to an F-16 Fighting Falcon on the flightline at Spangdahlem Air Base, May 18. Hot pits are a more efficient refueling method because the aircraft is refueled with its engines on, making the refill approximately 30% faster.

U.S. Air Force maintainers from the 435th Contingency Response Squadron, from Ramstein Air Base, work alongside 52nd Maintenance Group Airmen to practice hot pit refueling operations on the flightline at Spangdahlem Air Base, May 18. The 435th CRS support the mobility aircraft by trade but over the past 18 months have started certification to servicing operations on fighter jets as part of their preparation for Agile Combat Employment.

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U.S. Air Force Senior Airman Andrew Domingo, left, Senior Airman Tyler Sommerfield, middle, and Tech. Sgt Donovan Reid, right, 435th Contingency Response Squadron contingency response crew chiefs, from Ramstein Air Base, inspect a fuel nozzle during hot pit refueling practice on the flightline at Spangdahlem Air Base, May 18.

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Kaiserslautern American

May 29, 2020

Page 19

Sextortion: “It’s a trap!” Story and graphic by Staff Sgt. Joshua Magbanua 39th Air Base Wing Public Affairs Sexual extortion, often called “sextortion,” poses a significant threat to cyber surfers everywhere — even in the military. “Most would say younger people in their 20s are more vulnerable because they are not mature or responsible enough to know better; however, such crimes can impact anyone at any age — male or female,” said Christine Watson, 39th Air Base Wing chief information protection manager. Sextortion begins when a victim is approached on social media and seduced into engaging in online sexual activities, which are recorded without his or her knowledge or consent. The victim is later threatened with public exposure and embarrassment if he or she does not pay a specified sum of money to the perpetrator. “In my opinion, people are more likely to fall into a cybercrime such as sextortion because they are looking for a connection with someone,” said Watson. “The person on the other end makes them feel needed, wanted or even loved. They may become comfortable enough and share sexual acts, messages or pictures online —which then are used against them." Special agents with the Air Force Office of Special Investigations are combatting sextortion through community outreach and education. The office also actively investigates such threats against the Air Force and its people. “A threat such as sexual extortion — which often goes unreported — jeopardizes the member’s ability to effectively carry out the Air Force mission,” said Special Agent David Forsythe, OSI Detachment 522 operations officer. “OSI serves a key role in

working with victims of sexual extortion to better detect this threat and mitigate its impact on both the military member and our national security.” Forsythe explained that sextortion also opens up service members to other forms of blackmail such as demands for sensitive military information. Military members are also attractive targets for perpetrators due to their financial stability in comparison to civilian counterparts, he added. “Service members possess security clearances, meaning they could potentially have knowledge of military tactics, training and other operational security items of interest to potential adversaries,” said Forsythe. “Service members worldwide and across all ranks and services have been victimized by sextortion.” According to OSI, people should take steps to protect themselves from cybercrimes such as sextortion. This includes refraining from engaging in sexually explicit activities online such as posting or exchanging compromising imagery. Social media users should also adjust their social media privacy settings to limit informa-

Sexual extortion, often called “sextortion,” continues to pose a significant threat to netizens and cyber surfers everywhere — even in the military. Special agents with the Air Force Office of Special Investigations are combatting sextortion through community outreach and education. The office also actively investigates such threats against the Air Force and its people.

tion available to unknown persons. Thirdly, users should turn off electronic devices and cover webcams when not in use. Members suspecting a case of sextortion or other cybercrimes are encouraged to report it to their local OSI or online at www.osi.af.mil. “Trust your instincts; perpetrators U.S. & GERMAN DIVORCES • SUPPORT ISSUES • EEO WILLS & PROBATE • EMPLOYMENT • PERSONAL INJURY MSPB • CONTRACTOR ISSUES • TAX ADVISORS

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May 29, 2020

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Page 20

How to wine-taste: German style by MilitaryInGermany.com One of the most fun things to do in Germany is a wine tasting or Weinprobe (pronounced VAIHNpro-buh). Since about 60 percent of all German wine is produced in the state of Rheinland-Pfalz, residents of the KMC are in the middle of a wine tasting wonderland. The Rheinland-Pfalz (in English, it is Rhineland-Palatinate) contains six distinct German wine growing regions: Ahr, Moselle-SaarRuwer, Middle Rhine Valley, Nahe, Rheinhessen and Pfalz. Those of you that live in the Wiesbaden area are right on the Rheinhessen winegrowing region, and you are a stone’s throw from the Rheingau and Nahe wine growing areas as well, so from your vantage point, there are also a lot of choices. Residents in the Stuttgart area are closest to the Württemberg winegrowing region, but the Baden region is not far away. Keep driving north out of Stuttgart, and you’ll enter the Franken winegrowing region. For further information about German winegrowing regions, visit https://www.germanwineusa.com/. Most German wineries allow you to taste their wine at no charge. It is advisable to pick a winery, find their website and either call them or send them an

email to make an appointment. If you plan to do a Weinprobe on a Saturday, you often do not need to make an appointment if you arrive at the winery between about 10 a.m. and 3 p.m., but it is always best to check first. Winegrowing is almost always a family affair. If you arrive during the grape harvesting season (September and part of October), the family may be hard at work, with grandma or grandpa chipping in to do the wine pouring and serving. Wineries usually have a tasting room with a table and chairs for its guests. Often they are nicely decorated with wine paraphernalia and family photos. They will offer you a wine list that shows what they have available. The wine lists are often quite comprehensive, but basically they are broken down into different categories much like in the U.S. The first wines listed are usually whites, then rosé wines followed by reds. Sekt, which is Germany’s sparking wine, is often listed separately. Distilled wines (“Destillate“ in German) and liqueurs (“Likör“ in German) are normally posted last. Each of these categories is broken down into the different types of grapes. The most common white wines are Riesling, White Burgundy (Weißerburgunder),

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Gray Burgundy (Grauer Burgunder), Chardonnay, and Sauvignon Blanc. Reds often include Black Riesling (Schwarzriesling), St. Laurent, Spätburgunder, and sometimes a Cabernet Sauvignon and/or Merlot. In general, you would want to taste the white wines first, then the sekt and finally the reds. Tastings often do not include the distilled wines or liqueurs, but you can request this if you want. You always want to taste the dry wines first, followed by the fruitier or sweeter wines. In the past, German wines were almost always sweet like Liebfraumilch or Blue Nun, both of which were about the only German wines you could find in the States back in the 70s and 80s. Now most German white wine is dry, or “trocken“ in German (pronounced TRO-ken), and this is always written on the label to distinguish a dry wine from a fruitier or sweet wine. If a wine on the wine list is dry, it will always be annotated with “trocken,“ so there should be no doubt what you are drinking. If you aren’t sure, your host will be happy to help you and offer recommendations. The wine tasting is normally free-of-charge, but it is always polite to purchase a bottle or two during your visit. The more wine

you taste, the more bottles you should feel obligated to purchase. If you decide to try a lot of the wines on the wine list, my rule of thumb is to buy at least a box of wine, that is, six bottles. You can get six different bottles if you like– mix and match as you wish. The prices are usually shown on the wine list including VAT, but don’t be afraid to ask if you are not sure. If it is important that they accept a VAT form, make sure you ask before you visit the winery. Many Germans do not swallow the wine during a tasting. For this reason, there is usually a container that is used to spit the wine into after you slush it around in your mouth a little. This helps keep your blood alcohol at a reasonable level, but be careful. Some of the wine gets absorbed into your blood stream even if you just slush it around and don’t actually swallow the wine.

tasting wine made of newly harvested grapes, known as Federweißer (pronounced FAY-dur-WAI-sur), the wine should be clear, that is, not cloudy. Aroma — Always swirl the glass, so the wine can breathe and the aroma can circulate and fill the glass, then smell the wine. With enough practice, you can detect ‘cork’ in a wine, which is bad. You should not drink wine with a ‘cork’ aroma. You can also learn to smell other characteristics, such as citrus, berries, etc. Sip the wine— don’t chug it. Swirl the Wine around in your mouth for a few seconds. This helps spread the flavors and makes them more easily discernable. Swallow or spit out the wine you have tasted. Finish. Continue to assess the flavors of the wine after you swallow or spit out the wine. This is known as the finish or aftertaste.

Technique Amount of Wine — during a tasting, you will normally be poured a sip, not a glass, of wine. Holding the Wine Glass — try to hold the glass by the stem. It is also acceptable to grasp the glass by the foot. This is done to avoid having your fingers prematurely “warm“ the wine you are about to taste. Transparency — unless you are

Personal Recommendations Herr Stephan Eckel is the General Manager of the Oggersheimer Druckzentrum which prints the Kaiserslautern American newspaper. He lives in the Vorderpfalz and offered the following recommendations for a weinprobe. They are all close to Kaiserslautern, for example, Weingut Knipser is less than 30 minutes from K-town.

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Kaiserslautern American

May 29, 2020

Page 21

Nürburgring — drive legendary racetrack by MilitaryInGermany.com Incredible. Amazing. Stunning. That’s how I would describe a trip in a Porsche around the famous Nürburgring Nordschleife (North Loop) racetrack. Over 100 twists and turns, some ups and some downs — a real challenge even for experienced drivers. The Nürburgring is the stuff of legends. Opened in 1927, it closed during WWII, then it resumed operation until Niki Lauda crashed and was severely burned in 1976. After this accident, the old Nürburgring was no longer a part of the Grand Prix (Formula 1) circuit. The German Grand Prix is now held every other year at the new Nürburgring F1 circuit and the Hockenheim circuit. The Nordschleife is also known as the Green Hell, a name coined by Jackie Stewart in 1960. Phil Hill, driving a Ferrari 156 in 1961, became the first driver to break nine minutes. Stefan Bellof drove the fastest time ever in 1983 in a Porsche 956C with a time of 6:11.13. Nowadays, the Nordschleife is open to “Touristenfahrten“ (Tourist Driving) on specific dates, which means anybody with

a road legal car/motorcycle and a license can enjoy the ride. You don’t need any special training to drive the Nürburgring – just buy a ticket, drive up to the barrier, swipe your card, and you’re off to the races – literally! It’s considered a public road, BUT your normal insurance is probably not valid in case of an accident here, so you must be careful to arrange special insurance for driving on the circuit or at least check with your insurance provider to be safe. Don’t carry a timing mechanism because this means you are racing, and your insurance will not cover racing in any event. This is an important point, because small accidents (mostly fender-benders) are pretty common. Follow the rules – drive right, pass left. And remember, you are not racing – you are enjoying a 20+ kilometer trip around the most famous racetrack in the world! You can drive any road-legal two or four wheel vehicle on the Nürburgring. Along with a large number of Porsches, Corvettes, BMWs and a couple of Ferraris and McLarens, you’ll see the occasional tourist bus, minivan, or a Smart car, plus motorcycles. Tickets for one lap are €26;

four laps cost €97; and nine laps cost €202. Check their website for opening days: www.neurburgring. de. If you don’t feel like driving, you can take a Nürburgring ‘taxi,’ but you need to reserve in advance. There are other great events at Nürburgring. Rock am Ring (or Rock on the Ring) is Germany’s largest Rock Festival and takes place every June. There is also an Old Timer’s Grand Prix, usually in August. While in Germany, you should certainly go to the Nürburgring. It is an experience you will never forget! Photos and graphic by Rainer Lesniewski, Tobias Arhelger, M. Volk / Shutterstock.com

Getting There Put the address of the Dorint Hotel in your GPS: Grand-PrixStrecke, 53520 Nürburg. When you get there, follow the signs to “Nordschleife.“ Park near Devil’s Diner, go in and get a table on the terrace overlooking the cars lining up to go through the starting gates. You can get food and beverages here, and it’s great just watching all the cars driving by. For updated pricing and further information on the Nürburgring, please check www. nuerburgring.de.

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Kaiserslautern American

Page 22

May 29, 2020

SUMMER w ith dogs

Photo by Javier Brosch / Shutterstock.com

by MilitaryInGermany.com One of my favorite things about living in Germany is how dogfriendly everything is. I take my Italian Greyhound just about everywhere I go. And now that the weather’s warm, I’m planning even

more outdoor adventures together. Here are a few things to keep in mind for your four-legged friend during the warmer months.

more than willing to provide you with a bowl and tap water. Simply ask, “Haben Sie Wasser für meinen Hund, bitte?”

Heat Don’t let Fido dehydrate in the summer sun. Most restaurants are

Bees As I write, my small dog it sitting on my lap with her mouth swollen like a chipmunk after eating a bee. I wish I could say she learned a lesson from all of this. Seeing as this is the second time we’ve been through this, I doubt it. One sting is generally not dangerous. But if you notice extreme swelling or trouble breathing, head to the vet ASAP. If your dog has had multiple stings or had a bee in its mouth, call your vet. Bee stings in the mouth can be life threatening. It can cause swelling that can make it hard for the dog to breathe.

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Ticks We love to take hikes in the many wooded trails in the area. Ticks also love grassy trails, so it’s important to check your dog for them every day. You can buy inexpensive tick removal tools at the vet or online. One of our favorites is a tick removal pen.

We also chose to use an all natural tick treatment for our dog because she’s sensitive and we try to avoid harsh chemicals in the home. I put a drop of rose geranium essential oil between her shoulder blades every morning. Below are the PROS and CONS of geranium. PROS: • No harsh chemicals • My husband and I use it too! Before a walk in any wooded, grassy or shady area, I apply a drop of the oil to each of my ankles. • We have never had a tick on the dog when we applied the oil. Before learning this trick, I removed up to 3 a day. • A small bottle lasts forever and only costs $20! You only use one to two drops (for larger dogs: one between the shoulder blades and one at the base of the tail). • It smells lovely! It smells like roses and geraniums (not stinky dog). CONS: • We have to remember to apply it every day.

Parasites There have been many reported cases of Giardia (a microscopic parasite that causes a diarrheal disease) in Ramstein and Vogelweh. Parasites are commonly spread through fecal matter. (Look mom, I wrote about poop!) Signs that your dog may have a parasite are: diarrhea (I did it again!), loss of appetite, lethargy and vomiting. In small dogs especially, diarrhea and vomiting can be extremely dangerous. Don’t hesitate to call your vet. Dining Out You’ve probably noticed that when you see a dog at a restaurant, they are quietly sitting under the table seeming not to care about the food on the table or the other patrons. Remember that in Germany, your dog is expected to behave as well as any other patron. Author’s Profile: Kelly is a DOD wife, devoted dog-mom, a mediocre cook, a whiskey aficionado and an avid traveler who’s exploring the Kaiserslautern area with dog and husband in tow.

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Kaiserslautern American

May 29, 2020

Page 23

HOME CINEMA HIGHLIGHTS

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e classics! These are just a few — Now’s the time to stream or rent some of the all-timfor availability.

Part 10

Check your streaming service

COMEDY, DRAMA, FANTASY

Poster by USA Films

ADVENTURE, COMEDY, DRAMA

Poster by Universal Pictures

COMEDY, CRIME, DRAMA

CRIME, DRAMA, MYSTERY

Poster by The Samuel Goldwyn Company

Poster by Warner Bros.

BIOGRAPHY, CRIME, DRAMA

Poster by Miramax Films

Being John Malkovich (1999)

Babe: Pig in the City (1998)

Wild at Heart (1990)

L.A. Confidential (1997)

Heavenly Creatures (1994)

A puppeteer takes up a job to support his family. While working late one night, he finds a portal that leads directly to the head of the Hollywood actor John Malkovich. Stars: John Cusack, Cameron Diaz, John Malkovich Director: Spike Jonze

Even though Babe wins a shepherding contest, farmer Arthur Hoggett refuses to make money using his pig’s talents. Babe and Mrs Hoggett head to the city in order to raise funds to repay the bank loan. Stars: Elizabeth Daily, Mickey Rooney Director: George Miller

After breaking parole for self-defensive manslaughter, Sailor Ripley and his girlfriend Lula Fortune head down the highway to California while discovering hidden secrets about one another. Stars: Nicolas Cage, Laura Dern, Willem Dafoe Director: David Lynch

Three policemen tackle the corruption surrounding an unsolved murder at a Los Angeles coffee shop in the early 1950s. While unearthing the evidence and the suspects, the trail leads to corruption in their own department. Stars: Kevin Spacey, Russell Crowe Director: Curtis Hanson

True story of close friends who share a love of fantasy and literature. They conspire to kill one of the girls’ mother when she tries to end the girls’ intense and obsessive relationship. Stars: Melanie Lynskey, Kate Winslet, Sarah Peirse Director: Peter Jackson

DRAMA

ADVENTURE, COMEDY, SCI-FI

COMEDY, FANTASY

ADVENTURE, DRAMA, FAMILY

COMEDY, FAMILY, SPORT

Poster by The Samuel Goldwyn Company

Poster by Universal Pictures

Poster by Paramount Pictures

Poster by Warner Bros. Pictures

Poster by Warner Bros. Pictures

To Sleep With Anger (1990)

Back to the Future (1985)

The Addams Family (1992)

Free Willy (1993)

Little Giants (1994)

Vagabond Harry pays an unexpected visit to his old friend Gideon. Hard-drinking yet charismatic, Harry both entertains and enrages Gideon and his wife, Suzie. However, after Gideon falls gravely ill, Harry decides to step in and take his friend’s place in the household. Stars: Danny Glover, Paul Butler Director: Charles Burnett

Marty McFly is thrown back into the 50s when an experiment by his eccentric scientist friend Doc Brown goes awry. Traveling through time, Marty encounters young versions of his parents, and must make sure that they fall in love or he’ll cease to exist. Stars: Michael J. Fox, Christopher Lloyd Director: Robert Zemeckis

When a man claiming to be Fester, the missing brother of Gomez, arrives at the Addams’ home, the family is thrilled. However, Morticia begins to suspect the man is a fraud, since he cannot recall details of Fester’s life. Stars: Christopher Lloyd, Anjelica Huston Director: Barry Sonnenfeld

When orphan Jesse vandalizes a theme park, he is placed with foster parents and must work at the park to make amends. There he meets Willy, a young Orca whale who has been separated from his family. Sensing kinship, they form a bond. Stars: Jason James Richter, Lori Petty Director: Simon Wincer

Ever since childhood, Danny has felt inferior to his brother, Kevin, a former college football star. After Danny’s daughter is cut from his brother’s football team, Danny forms his own team to stand up against Kevin. Stars: Rick Moranis, Ed O’Neill Director: Duwayne Dunham

Ramstein

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