Kaiserslautern American - September 4, 2020

FEATURE

NEWS

721 MSS EOSF: Peace of mind, Page 3

FEATURE

Free priority mail express military service for mail ballots, Page 5

FEATURE

Recently promoted 86 OSS MSgt excels in new role, Page 6

September 4, 2020 | Volume 44, Number 35

Thracian Summer 2020: 86 LRS drop it like it’s hot, Pages 12-13

Read the KA online at KaiserslauternAmerican.com

Ramstein wins 2020 Air Force Innkeeper Award Story and photos by Airman 1st Class John Wright 86th Airlift Wing Public Affairs The Air Force Innkeeper Award Program announced Ramstein Air Base as the winner of the 2020 Air Force Innkeeper Award on Aug. 20.

The award, divided into large and small categories based on number of rooms, recognized the 786th Force Support Squadron Kaiserslautern Military Community lodging team as the best large-category lodging operation in the Air Force.

With nearly 1,300 rooms, KMC lodging spans 30 facilities spread out over four properties on Ramstein, Vogelweh, Kapaun and Landstuhl.

“This award speaks volumes to the outstanding hard work and dedication the lodging team puts forth 24/7,” said Brig.

Gen. Josh M. Olson, 86th Airlift Wing commander.

Air Force lodging operations meeting the highest standards were evaluated on customer service, financial measures and related support activities by an Innkeeper Evaluation Board comprised of lodging experts from the Air Force Services Center.

In previous years evaluations were conducted during in-person installation See INNKEEPER AWARD, Page 2

Jennifer Ankovic, 786th Force Support Squadron lead guest service representative, left, checks in a guest at the Ramstein Inn on Ramstein Air Base, Aug. 25. The 786th FSS Kaiserslautern Military Community lodging operation at Ramstein was awarded the 2020 Air Force Innkeeper Award for being the best large-category lodging operation in the Air Force.

CMSgt Skibitsky: Habitual optimist

by Staff Sgt. Jimmie D. Pike 86th Airlift Wing Public Affairs The 86th Airlift Wing’s new command chief, Chief Master Sgt. Hope L. Skibitsky, is no stranger to leadership. She arrived in August from her previous position at Cannon Air Force Base, N.M. as the 27th Special Operations Wing command chief.

As the 86th AW command

chief, Skibitsky will be integral to the success of the wing by filling the role of senior enlisted advisor to the commander in matters that pertain to training, development, readiness and mission effectiveness.

During an interview with the Armed Forces Network Kaiserslautern last month, Skibitsky reflected on her move, support from the Ramstein team, and how it provided an

insight to helping Airmen here.

“Everyone knows that a (permanent change of station) can be stressful, but a PCS overseas can be twice as stressful,” said Skibitsky. “Our teammates and wingmen did a good job taking care of me. (During) quarantine you’re powerless, a lot of people have to take care of you, so there is a lot of vulnerability.”

See HABITUAL OPTIMIST, Page 3

Kaiserslautern American

Page 2 INNKEEPER AWARD from Page 1 visits, however 2020 candidates received a virtual review of the main facets of their operations.

The virtual review included everything from the front desk area to housekeeping standards and staff training, said Sonya Houston, 786th FSS KMC lodging general manager. It evaluated the operations and logistics section, inventory controls, storage practices, vehicle maintenance, work order management and working relationships with Civil Engineering to maintain facilities.

Created in 1981, the Air Force Innkeeper Award Program recognizes installation-level lodging facilities providing the most outstanding accommodations and customer service to Air Force travelers.

“Even in the midst of COVID-19, we feel that if any base deserves this award, it is Ramstein,” Houston said. “Our mission has been nonstop, and we’ve been excelling at that mission.”

Not even one of the four KMC lodging properties have closed their doors during the pandemic.

Their implementation of and strict adherence to necessary health and safety guidelines ensured that they continued to serve the military community.

“Deployments didn’t stop, redeployments didn’t stop, and aircrew missions didn’t stop,” Houston said. “So we have still been dealing with all of those challenges, and doing it quite well.”

The lodging staff has continued to adapt and modify customer service practices, so they may ensure travelers who must self-quarantine still have everything they need while maintaining proper physical distance.

“We ask if there’s anything they need, and let them know to stay in the room,” said Tunisia Sulzbach, 786th FSS Ramstein lodging manager. “Our housekeepers gather kits to support them. Things to keep their rooms clean – garbage bags, extra linen, towels – to get them through that time. We still continue with customer service, we just had to change it up a little bit.”

The management team made a point to recognize that winning the award was a collective effort. From the frontline workers dealing directly with customers to the behind-the-scenes workers in logistics, the entire staff’s hard work, dedication and determination is what made them the best lodging operation in the Air Force.

“I couldn’t be prouder,” Olson said when speaking to the KMC lodging team. “Thanks for the top-notch customer service and continued excellence you provide in a demanding and ever-changing environment.”

September 4, 2020

Steven McCabe, 786th Force Support Squadron housekeeping supervisor, left, and Victoria Schenk, 786th FSS housekeeping lead, change linens at the Ramstein Inns — Vogelweh on Vogelweh Military Complex, Aug. 25. The 786th FSS Kaiserslautern Military Community lodging operation, comprised of more than 1,200 rooms in 30 facilities spread out over four properties, was awarded the 2020 Air Force Innkeeper Award.

Anthony Allen, 786th Force Support Squadron lodging logistics supply technician, right, and Zio Escobar, 786th FSS lodging logistics material handler and motor vehicle operator, restock housekeeping supplies at the lodging warehouse on Einsiedlerhof Air Station, Aug. 25. From frontline workers dealing directly with customers to behind-the-scenes workers in logistics, the entire 786th FSS Kaiserslautern Military Community lodging staff was recognized by the Air Force Innkeeper Award Program as the best lodging operation in the Air Force.

Eva Barth, 786th Force Support Squadron lodging housekeeper, hangs clean towels at the General John K. Cannon Hotel on Ramstein Air Base, Aug. 27. The Cannon Hotel was one of four Kaiserslautern Military Community lodging properties evaluated on customer service, financial measures and related support activities to win the entire KMC lodging operation the 2020 Air Force Innkeeper Award.

Leadership from the 786th Force Support Squadron Kaiserslautern Military Community lodging team pose for a photo in the lobby of the Ramstein Inn on Ramstein Air Base, Aug. 25. The Air Force Innkeeper Award Program announced the KMC lodging operation as the winner of the 2020 Air Force Innkeeper Award.

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Editorial content is based on news releases, features, editorials and reports prepared by Department of Defense, Air Force

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Kaiserslautern American

September 4, 2020

Page 3

721 MSS EOSF: Peace of mind Story and photos by Staff Sgt. Devin Boyer 86th Airlift Wing Public Affairs

When arriving at a new place for the first time, the unfamiliarity can be overwhelming. This is especially true for Airmen who are expected to execute the mission immediately upon arrival.

For the 721st Mobility Support Squadron, a unit whose majority consist of deployed members on a rotation-based tour, a two-man flight acts as a logistical hub for Airmen and gives them a peace of mind while they focus on the mission. This team is known as the Expeditionary Operations Support Flight.

“For all the members deployed to Ramstein in the capacity of (Air Mobility Command), we make sure they can hit the ground running and not have to worry about anything that’s not their job,” said Tech. Sgt. Jonathan Cissna, 721st MSS EOSF noncommissioned officer in charge.

The 721st MSS consists of mul-

tiple Air Force specialties which provide support for AMC missions coming through Ramstein. Additionally, the Aeromedical Evacuation team assigned to the squadron provides airlift for patients downrange and returns them to Ramstein to receive the medical attention they need.

Due to the nature of the squadron’s mission and vast network of Airmen, the EOSF is an essential component as they ensure every Airman is taken care of.

“When the Airmen get here and they need to immediately start evacuating people from the desert, protecting airplanes, fixing planes or providing life equipment to the aircrews, they don’t have the time and resource knowledge to make sure they’re logistically ready to go.”

Logistic support includes lodging reservations, rental car accommodations and orienting Airmen with their surroundings and base agencies, but that is not all the team does. They are also responsible for processing awards and decorations,

facilitating responses to unexpected family emergencies and attending to a myriad of additional duties.

As one of the few permanently assigned entities in the squadron, the two-man team can fill in the logistical gap and take care of the Airmen so the Airmen can take care of the mission.

“When you’re less stressed out, you’re going to be a lot more efficient at your job and more productive,” said Staff Sgt. Landon Wilkerson, 721st MSS EOSF supervisor.

For jobs like Aeromedical Evacuation and Security Forces Ravens, focus is crucial to mission success. By alleviating the added stressors outside of their official duties, Airmen in these high-impact jobs can continue saving and protecting lives without distraction.

When learning about successful missions out of the squadron, Wilkerson said “It’s nice to know that you’re helping people make a big impact. We’re a small cog in the machine, but essential.”

(Left) U.S. Air Force Tech. Sgt. Jonathan Cissna, 721st Mobility Support Squadron Expeditionary Operations Support Flight noncommissioned officer in charge, back, assists Tech. Sgt. Brian Sanchez, 721st MSS Aircrew Flight Equipment noncommissioned officer in charge, with awards and decorations at Ramstein Air Base, Aug 17.

HABITUAL OPTIMIST from Page 1 There’s strength in that vulnerability — it builds teamwork. I will tell you that it built a lot of empathy to know what struggles Airmen have because I have gone through it, said Skibitsky.

Though this is Skibitsky’s first time at Ramstein Air Base, she is familiar with service overseas and the challenges it brings. Her reaction to the challenge of moving overseas, especially during a worldwide pandemic, highlights one of her strongest traits and a large part of her personal approach to the unknown.

“I’m a habitual optimist,” said Skibitsky. “If you walk into somewhere looking for the suck that’s what you’re going to find,

and that’s an awful way to live.

I’m always looking for the (positive). Throw it at me I’m going to find the good in it.”

While settling into her position alongside Brig. Gen. Joshua M. Olson, 86th AW commander, Skibitsky aims to continue building a professional climate for the members of Ramstein Air Base.

She says there are many things she hopes to tackle during her tenure as command chief, but one enduring theme will be connecting with Airmen.

“My favorite part of being in this position is people want to talk - they love to talk - and I love to listen,” said Skibitsky. “I just want to see us get after the mission and do it while we are taking care of the Airmen and their families.”

U.S. Air Force Staff Sgt. Landon Wilkerson, 721st Mobility Support Squadron Expeditionary Operations Support Flight supervisor, left, and Tech. Sgt. Jonathan Cissna, 721st MSS EOSF noncommissioned officer in charge, sort through documents in their office at Ramstein Air Base, Aug 17. Wilkerson and Cissna are responsible for ensuring Airmen deployed to the 721st MSS are taken care of logistically so they can focus on the mission.

U.S. Air Force Staff Sgt. Landon Wilkerson, 721st Mobility Support Squadron Expeditionary Operations Support Flight supervisor, poses for a photo at Ramstein Air Base, Aug 17. Wilkerson is one of two Airmen assigned to the EOSF, which provides support for 721st MSS deployers who make up the majority of the squadron.

U.S. Air Force Tech. Sgt. Jonathan Cissna, 721st Mobility Support Squadron Expeditionary Operations Support Flight noncommissioned officer in charge, poses for a photo at Ramstein Air Base, Aug 17. Cissna is one of two Airmen assigned to the EOSF, which provides support for the 721st MSS deployers who make up the majority of the squadron.

Kaiserslautern American

Page 4

KMC BLOTTER

TAKE NOTE

COMPILED BY THE 569TH USFPS AND 86TH SFS

AUGUST 24 12:27 a.m.: Driving under the influence in Landstuhl 1:49 p.m.: Damage to personal property in Kaiserslautern AUGUST 25 7 a.m.: Major vehicle collision at Rhine Ordnance Barracks AUGUST 26 1:03 p.m.: Major vehicle collision at Raststaette Goettingen parking lot 1:50 p.m.: Theft in Kaiserslautern 2:32 p.m.: Damage to personal property in Kaiserslautern 4:43 p.m.: Major vehicle collision in Ramstein-Miesenbach AUGUST 27 Nothing significant to report

September 4, 2020

Photo by Schmidt_Alex / Shutterstock.com

AUGUST 28 12:44 p.m.: Theft in Ludwigshafen am Rhein 6:54 p.m.: Major vehicle collision in Machenbach 8:58 p.m.: Major vehicle collision at Pulaski Barracks AUGUST 29 4:37 a.m.: Driving while impaired in Kaiserslautern 12:18 p.m.: Fleeing the scene of a traffic collision in Kaiserslautern AUGUST 30 12:52 a.m.: Driving under the influence in Kaiserslautern 4:20 a.m.: Fraud in Kindsbach 10:27 a.m.: Major vehicle collision in Kaiserslautern 10:52 a.m.: Theft in Kaiserslautern

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.

THE HOUSING HYPE

Photo by Golubovy / Shutterstock.com

COVID-19 updates for KMC Looking for updated information regarding coronavirus and changes to base facilities? Visit www.ramstein.af.mil/COVID-19/ RAO Pink Card Holders Beneficiaries did not have to submit receipts in person to the responsible customs office due to COVID-19. Effective September 1, beneficiaries must to comply with the obligation to notify the Kaiserslautern customs office again, and present all purchase receipts collected since March.

All receipts from purchased goods from the previous month. During the months of September and October, please bring collected receipts in the following weeks to your Customs office: Letters A-H: Week 36/40 Letters I-P: Week 37/41 Letters Q-Z: Week 38/42 Please use the main entrance and get in line at the desk in front of Room 49.

Facemasks are mandatory in the whole building.

Opening hours Customs Kaiserslautern: Mon 8 a.m.-noon, 1-3 p.m.

Tue 8 a.m.-noon Wed 8 a.m.-noon, 1-5:30 p.m.

Thu 8 a.m.-noon, 1-3 p.m.

Fri 8 a.m.-1 p.m.

GACO helps U.S. customers in Germany Even during COVID-19, the GermanAmerican Community Office in Kaiserslautern (located in Rathaus Nord) is still available to assist American customers with host nation-related topics. GACO staff is able to help with German documents and authorities, host nation policies and regulations, questions about disposing trash

off base, drivers’ licenses for U.S. civilians, retirement in Germany, marriage between Americans and foreign nationals, leisure and sports activities, and a lot more. GACO is a resource to help U.S. personnel have an easier and smoother stay in Germany.

As soon as USO is authorized to offer newcomers’ orientation tours in Kaiserslautern again, they will make weekly stops at the GACO. The main entrance of Rathaus Nord is currently closed to the public, but you can make an appointment if you need to discuss your matter in person. For your appointment you will need to use the entrance at Benzinoring 1 where you will be picked up. For more information, visit www.gaco-kl.de; call 0631-363-3010 between 9 a.m. and 1 p.m. Mondays, Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Fridays, and between 2 and 6 p.m. Thursdays; or email info@ gaco-kl.de.

Ramstein Pharmacy Tent Ramstein’s pharmacy is closing the lobby to patient access and dispensing medications through the exterior pharmacy lobby windows (walk-up pharmacy). This enables patients to maintain proper physical distancing. Medication refills can be processed through TRICARE Online or through the automated refill line (06371-865601), and will be ready for pick-up the next duty day after 1 p.m. Pharmacy hours of operation are Mon-Fri 7:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m.

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

PCS coming up?

Here are six Housing tips for a smooth move (Military) Did You Know: The Housing Office requires a 40-day advanced notice of Intent to terminate your government quarters prior to PCSing?

How: First, contact the KMC Housing Office, Assistance Section and: 1. Provide four (4) copies of your PCS Orders and a Port Call date (if known.)

2. Schedule a Pre and Final inspection appointment for your quarters.

3. If you do not have your Orders or a Port Call date, but can anticipate a future date,

then: - Schedule the “Pre” Inspection - A separate appointment will be necessary to schedule the Final inspection 4. Arrange for furniture delivery or pick-up of Family Housing loaner furniture.

- Contact the Furnishings Management Section at DSN 489-6001 or commercial 0631-536-6001 5. Complete your housing unit’s Final Inspection to obtain: - Housing’s clearance documents that will be necessary for your upcoming outprocessing Based on your Port Call date, Temporary

Lodging Allowance days may be authorized up to ten days…for further details, you can ask your Housing Team Representative.

To schedule an appointment or need a question/concern answered, please call the Housing Office Assistance Section at DSN 314489-6672 or commercial 0631-536-6672. You can also e-mail us at KMCHousing@us.af.mil to give your notice.

The KMC Family Housing Team is in the business of 100% “Customer Satisfaction!”

To keep abreast of the many going-ones in Family Housing, you can now visit our

Facebook Page at https://www.facebook.com/ KMCHousingOffice/ To provide exceptional customer service, the Housing Office will close every Wednesday at 11:30 for administrative time. This will allow us to process paperwork for the numerous service members PCS’ing during the summer months.

Upcoming Office Closure: The KMC Housing Office and FMS will be closed on 7 Sep 20 in observance of the holiday.

Safe Travels to you and your family from the KMC Housing Team!

Photo courtesy of the Housing Office

If you’re terminating government quarters

September 4, 2020

Kaiserslautern American

Page 5

Free priority mail express military service for casted mail ballots Courtesy of U.S. Air Forces in Europe and Air Forces Africa A6 Postal Operations Branch From Sept. 1 through Dec. 8, customers can mail their general elections “Casted Ballots” back to the United States free using priority mail express military service.

“The Department of Defense, in collaboration with the United States Postal Service, is again offering this expedited, free service to ensure ballots from American citizens stationed or living overseas arrive in time for the upcoming general federal elections,” said Mr. Lionel Rivera USAFE Air Postal Squadron, Postal Operations Flight.

In order to receive this free service, customers must present their casted ballots at a post office finance window.

Finance window clerks will give customers a receipt copy of the express mail 11-DOD label. The copy of the express

mail label includes a tracking number customers can use to track the status of their ballots on the USPS web site at: https://tools.usps.com/ go/TrackConfirmAction!input. action.

This service is only available to citizens who are casting their vote by mail ballot and cannot be used for other voting material mailings.

“All American citizens overseas, regardless of their status, are authorized to use this free service and the Military Postal System to mail their casted ballots at any military post office,” said Mr. Rivera.

Due to high mail volumes expected for this general election, customers overseas are highly encouraged to mail their casted ballots early to ensure the ballots arrive in time for elections. Customers can contact their local Air Force postmaster for additional information.

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Kaiserslautern American

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September 4, 2020

Recently promoted 86 OSS MSgt excels in new role

U.S. Air Force Master Sgt. Bruce Black, 86th Operations Support Squadron tower assistant chief controller, poses for a photo in the air traffic control tower at Ramstein Air Base, Aug. 18. Black was selected as Airlifter of the Week for his exceptional leadership and coordination of recent operations.

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U.S. Air Force Master Sgt. Bruce Black, 86th Operations Support Squadron tower assistant chief controller, coordinates with another controller at Ramstein Air Base, Aug. 24. Black was the OSS lead for Operation Infinity, Brig. Gen. Mark R. August’s fini-flight.

Story and photos by Senior Airman Noah Coger 86th Airlift Wing Public Affairs An 86th Operations Support Squadron Airman was awarded Airlifter of the Week for his performance during numerous challenging tasks within a new position, at Ramstein Air Base, Aug. 18.

Master Sgt. Bruce Black, 86th OSS tower assistant chief controller, recently stepped into his new rank and position and quickly demonstrated he was the perfect pick for the job.

Black and his team are critical in leading air traffic operations at United States Air Forces in Europe’s most critical power projection platform, Ramstein Air Base.

“As one of the squadron’s newest master sergeants, he embodies what it means to be a senior non-commissioned officer,” said Lt. Col. Henry Pflugradt, 86th OSS commander.

In the duration of one week, Black navigated a series of unique challenges. First, he coordinated new flight departure and arrival patterns due to the erection of a crane over the autobahn east of runway 26.

The crane that popped up presented a number of obstacles for the air traffic control tower, but Black presented safety concerns

and alternate flight suggestions to leadership and helped navigate the continuation of operations.

Additionally, he assisted in the relay of information to an emergency response after an unexploded ordnance was discovered in the southwest area of base, and lastly, he was the OSS lead for Operation Infinity, Brig. Gen. Mark R. August’s fini-flight.

He performed all of these feats with a cool head while also maintaining his day-to-day supervisory duties.

“Master Sgt. Black’s calm demeanor not only helps to lead Airmen through high stress situations, but also instills them with the confidence to achieve new heights in their personal and professional lives,” said Col. Matthew S. Husemann, 86th Airlift Wing vice commander. “I was humbled to watch him in action as the tower executed its mission while simultaneously performing upgrade training for all of the new air traffic control Airmen.”

Black, a native of Columbus, Georgia, says he unwinds in his off time by cooking and has recently started to try his hand at various woodworking projects. He built a couple of corn-hole boards and plans to build a toy chest for his son next.

Steady hands and a calm demeanor are just a part of what

makes Black successful in his endeavors. His hard work and dedication have contributed to his achievements and helped Ramstein sustain rapid global mobility in the wake of a pandemic.

Although the world has struggled to operate in the shadow of COVID-19, Black and his controllers have not only maintained continuity of operations, but have accelerated their own readiness through robust training and improved scheduling, Pflugradt said.

Even with all the praise he has received and the challenges that have been presented to him, Black remains modest and attributes his success to the support of his team.

“Being recognized as the Airlifter of the Week is definitely an honor, but I’m a small part within the airfield operations community,” said Black. “Ramstein is the gateway to the world and for that to remain true, the airfield has to remain open 24/7/365 and our team is constantly making that happen. This year has thrown a lot of punches at us, but we keep doing our part to stay healthy while overseeing 14,000 operations in and out of Ramstein Air Base, and we aren’t done yet.”

It is capable and confident Airmen like Black that contribute to Ramstein’s reputation of being the World’s Best Wing.

September 4, 2020

Kaiserslautern American

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U.S. Air Force Senior Airman Asia Gray, 2nd Security Forces Squadron counter unmanned aircraft systems noncommissioned officer in charge, fourth from the left, poses for a photo with 2nd Mission Support Group leadership, 2nd SFS leadership and her sister, Malaysia Gray, at Barksdale Air Force Base, La., Aug. 19. Gray was awarded as the first recipient of the Kaleth O. Wright Excellence in Leadership Scholarship for Waldorf University, Forest City, Iowa.

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An Airman from the 2nd Security Forces Squadron was selected as the first recipient of the Kaleth O. Wright Excellence in Leadership Scholarship, an honor given on behalf of the Air Force Sergeants Association in conjunction with Waldorf University, Forest City, Iowa.

According to Headquarters AFSA, “the Excellence in Leadership scholarship is presented to an individual who demonstrates leadership qualities in their current performance of duty. The individual shows great potential for increased leadership roles. In addition, the individual is dedicated to continuous improvements of themselves, others and the community.” Senior Airman Asia Gray, 2nd SFS counter unmanned aircraft systems noncommissioned officer in charge, was exactly the person they were looking for.

Gray, a Hattiesburg, Mississippi native, grew up close with her parents and three younger siblings. After graduating high school in 2015, she had plans of becoming a kinesiologist after attending college at the University of Mississippi. She joined the track team in college, but it slowly started to become more of a job than a sport for her and she needed a change.

“I came to this realization

that ever since middle school I had just been going, going and going. There was no break for me,” Gray said. “So, I decided I needed a break from school and I knew that if I would’ve gone back to little ole’ south Mississippi, I would’ve got a cute little job down there and said forget college and just fell in line like everybody else.”

Shortly thereafter, her younger brother enlisted in the Army.

After attending his graduation she knew that the military was her next step. She set up a meeting with a recruiter and three months later, she shipped off to Air Force basic training in 2017 to become a “Defender.”

“I was not anticipating being a part of security forces. I was a medical student and how I got to law enforcement, only God knows and the Air Force had different plans for me,” Gray said.

“But I love my job. I love my life.

I love being at Barksdale (AFB).

Being a cop has been very educational to me and it has shown me a different side of life.”

Even though it was not the career path she expected, she has fully immersed herself and continues to grow where she was planted.

“Airman Gray is a leader among Airmen, she is a selfless leader,” said Master Sgt. Tamieka Morgan, 2nd SFS Defense Force Operations NCOIC and Gray’s former flight chief. “She always leads by example. She is what I

believe to be the epitome of an Airman. She operates far beyond her pay grade and even goes as far as leading (noncommissioned officers). She’s a phenomenal Airman.”

Gray receives her inspiration from mentors. From her military training instructors at Basic Military Training to her squadron leadership at the 2nd SFS, she believes they have helped her get to where she is today in her career. Another inspiration she has is retired Chief Master Sgt. Kaleth Wright himself.

“Before I even got to meet Chief Wright, I had just seen the work he had done with others and for others, and I thought that was just the coolest thing ever,” Gray said. “I want to be just like this man. Literally, I just want to pick up where he left off and just keep finishing that race.”

So far in her Air Force journey, she has won numerous awards to include Barksdale’s Diamond Sharp Award, coined by various Air Force leadership and just recently received a “promote now” on her enlisted performance report, which she was selected as No. 1 out of 52 eligible applicants. And now, she is able to add this scholarship to her list of achievements.

“As an Airman 1st Class, she was the only person on my flight of 40 personnel to be an installation patrolman.

Typically A1Cs are installation

Kaiserslautern American

September 4, 2020

DOD offers diversity, inclusion counseling resources

A plaque naming U.S. Air Force Senior Airman Asia Gray as the first recipient of the Kaleth O. Wright Excellence in Leadership Scholarship sits during an award ceremony at Barksdale Air Force Base, La., Aug. 19. Gray, 2nd Security Forces Squadron counter unmanned aircraft systems noncommissioned officer in charge, plans on finishing her bachelor’s degree in kinesiology, and then obtain a second bachelor’s degree in criminal justice.

by Department of Defense

Malaysia Gray, U.S. Air Force Senior Airman Asia Gray, 2nd Security Forces Squadron counter unmanned aircraft systems noncommissioned officer in charge and 2nd SFS leadership view a plaque Gray was awarded after she was named as the first recipient of the Kaleth O. Wright Excellence in Leadership Scholarship at Barksdale Air Force Base, La., Aug. 19. The scholarship is an honor given on behalf of the Air Force Sergeants Association in conjunction with Waldorf University, Forest City, Iowa.

access controllers, which to the public, coincides with gateguards,” Morgan said. “She was so good at her job, she was trusted by her leadership to do something that usually is reserved for seasoned Senior Airmen and NCOs.” “She trains others, she cares, she takes other Airmen under her wing. And she was just an A1C a couple months ago. I want to say Gray has had Senior Airman on for maybe three or four months,” Morgan added.

With the scholarship, she plans on finishing her bachelor’s

degree in kinesiology and then obtain a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice.

“It’s my push. Not only financially, but it is my push to go in and finish school because, you know, you get in and you get super busy in your Air Force life and career. You start putting your personal stuff aside.

I know I am all work, work, work, and not really personal,” Gray explained. “So, now it's going to push me to go on and finish school because I have

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been putting it off for a while.

This is the push I needed to go and finish my degree.”

“Becoming the first recipient of his award is really amazing. You can’t really put anything like this into words to explain how grateful I feel,” Gray added.

Her selection will officially be announced Aug. 26, during AFSA’s Virtual Professional Airmen’s Conference and Virtual Professional Education and Development Symposium.

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The Department of Defense responded to interest from service personnel by providing its members with diversity and inclusion resources for those who experienced racism, bias and discrimination in either their personal or professional lives.

The DOD partnered with various programs, including Military Family Life Counseling and Military OneSource to leverage their non-medical counseling expertise to address diversity and inclusion issues. Diversity and inclusion coaches will phase into the MFLC program and allow service members to process their reactions to their experiences and to develop successful coping strategies. The MFLC program and its D&I coaches have the skills and capacity to provide coaching services to address the issues of diversity and inclusion; provide the immediacy of contact; and assist service members dealing with encounters of racism, sexism, bias and any form of discrimination.

The Military OneSource call center, available 24/7, provides information and referrals to MFLC D&I coaches, Military OneSource non-medical counseling and peer support, as well as DOD Equal Opportunity representatives and chaplains. This integrated approach to address diversity and inclusion issues offers a range of support options for the military community.

Service members experiencing frustration, sadness, depression

or other anxieties can seek assistance to address their concerns, as well as find the support and care they need.

These resources are provided at no cost.

Military members and their families are encouraged to contact these resources at: • DOD Equal Opportunity representatives • Chaplains • Military Family Life Counselors: Contact Unit MFLC • Military OneSource: www. militaryonesource.mil or 800-342-9647 Unlawful discrimination has no place in the DOD and our DOD EO representatives are available to help create and maintain a culture of inclusion and fairness throughout the DOD workforce.

EO operates to ensure all individuals are provided a full and fair opportunity for employment, career advancement and access to programs without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, disability (physical or mental), gender, age, sexual orientation, genetic information or parental status. All military members who believe they have been a victim of unlawful discrimination based on race, color, national origin, religion or sex that is not otherwise authorized by statute or policy are strongly encouraged to immediately disclose the incidents to their chain of command. All unresolved complaints should be reported to their unit’s Equal Opportunity Office.

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September 4, 2020

DOD crowdsources efforts to promote diversity, inclusion

by Jim Garamone Department of Defense News Defense Secretary Dr. Mark T. Esper asked for the process as part of his Board on Diversity and Inclusion. The board — chaired by Secretary of the Air Force Barbara Barrett — wants input from service members and DOD civilians, and crowdsourcing is one tool they will use.

For those not familiar with the concept, crowdsourcing is the practice of using the internet as a source of information and solutions. Service members and DOD civilians can participate through Oct. 16.

“The secretary wants to hear from all of our service members about what the DOD can do to improve diversity and inclusion,” said Marine Corps Maj. Sharon A. Sisbarro, a member of the board’s support office.

The board members didn’t want to do yet another survey, Sisbarro said. “We adopted a kind of crowdsourcing-like model, where we just said, ‘Tell us what we need to do,’” she added.

Personnel with a DOD common access card can participate in the crowdsourcing effort, she

Senior Enlisted Advisor to the Chairman Ramón “CZ” Colón-López speaks on diversity and inclusion at the Pentagon, Aug. 17. The board — chaired by Secretary of the Air Force Barbara Barrett — wants input from service members and DOD civilians, and crowdsourcing is one tool they will use.

Courtesy photo

said. “Even though you need a CAC to get in, the comments are anonymous,” she emphasized.

This is an effort to create a better culture within the department, Sisbarro said.

The board will look at a range of issues, from grooming standards to first-person experience sharing about the reality of life as a minority, she explained.

Some Fortune 500 companies use crowdsourcing to foster innovation and speed adoption

of ideas, Sisbarro noted, and this is the first effort on the DOD level.

Service members and civilians interested in offering their ideas and solutions can visit https://www.milsuite.mil/book/ defense-diversity.

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September 4, 2020

Thracian Summer 2020: 86 LRS drop it like it’s hot Photos by Tech. Sgt. Devin Nothstine 86th Airlift Wing Public Affairs

U.S. Air Force Staff Sgt. Jessica Smith, 86th Logistics Readiness Squadron unilateral airlift training NCO in-charge assistant, secures the containers on the airdrop bundle during Thracian Summer 2020 at Plovdiv Airport, Bulgaria, Aug. 20. The lids are secured on the CDS bundles to ensure the liquid inside the containers does not leak while the bundle is dropped, transported or recovered.

U.S. Air Force Staff Sgt. Clint Bowen, 86th Logistics Readiness Squadron unilateral airlift training supervisor, prepares a container delivery system to be airdropped during Thracian Summer 2020 at Plovdiv Airport, Bulgaria, Aug. 20. Bowen cut the quarter-inch cotton webbing as part of the recovery process following a successful high-to-low profile airdrop.

U.S. Air Force Airman 1st Class Caleb Hargrove, 86th Logistics Readiness Squadron unilateral airlift training specialist, assembles the 2,000-pound parachute strap for a container delivery system during Thracian Summer 2020 at Plovdiv Airport, Bulgaria, Aug. 20. The strap ensures the parachute attached to the CDS bundle is secure for inflight transportation and properly attached to release the parachute once dropped.

September 4, 2020

Kaiserslautern American

Page 13

U.S. Air Force Airman 1st Class Caleb Hargrove, 86th Logistics Readiness Squadron unilateral airlift training (UAT) specialist, and U.S. Air Force Staff Sgt. Clint Bowen, 86th Logistics Readiness Squadron UAT supervisor, transfer a container delivery system onto a delivery truck during Thracian Summer 2020 at Plovdiv Airport, Bulgaria, Aug. 20. The 37th Airlift Squadron flew multiple high-to-low profile airdrops at the Cheshnegirovo drop zone which required UAT’s assistance with recovering and preparing CDS and low-cost low-altitude bundles daily.

U.S. Air Force Staff Sgt. Clint Bowen, 86th Logistics Readiness Squadron unilateral airlift training supervisor, and U.S. Air Force Airman 1st Class Caleb Hargrove, 86th Logistics Readiness Squadron UAT specialist, prepare to lift and load a container delivery system onto a forklift during Thracian Summer 2020 at Plovdiv Airport, Bulgaria, Aug. 20. The 86th LRS Airmen worked closely with Bulgarian air force members during the flying deployment in Bulgaria to deliver bundles for high-to-low profile airdrops.

U.S. Air Force Airman 1st Class Caleb Hargrove, 86th Logistics Readiness Squadron unilateral airlift training specialist, ties the 2,000-pound parachute strap to secure a parachute to a container delivery system during Thracian Summer 2020 at Plovdiv Airport, Bulgaria, Aug. 20. The strap is tied to secure the lower lateral bands of the parachute as well as to make handles for transporting the parachute.

U.S. Air Force Airman 1st Class Caleb Hargrove, 86th Logistics Readiness Squadron unilateral airlift training specialist, secures a parachute to a container delivery system during Thracian Summer 2020 at Plovdiv Airport, Bulgaria, Aug. 20. The white quarter-inch webbing ties are assembled to hold the parachute in place while the CDS is in transport and to secure the parachute to the load.

Kaiserslautern American

Page 14

September 4, 2020

CSAF outlines strategic approach for Air Force success

by Charles Pope Secretary of the Air Force Public Affairs In his first major pronouncement as Air Force Chief of Staff, Gen. Charles Q. Brown, Jr., declared Aug. 31 that the service must go fast, must collaborate more effectively with Congress and military, industry and allied partners, and “must accelerate the transition from the force we have to the force required for a future high-end fight.”

“We can’t predict the future, but we can definitely shape the future,” Brown said during a media roundtable in which he presented the 8-page strategic approach entitled, “Accelerate Change or Lose.”

“So I think we have a window of opportunity to accelerate some of those changes. And personally, I’d rather drive than ride. I’d rather try to help shape what’s going on versus sitting back observing and being impacted by what’s going on,” he said.

According to Brown, “the document itself is really about why we need to change and foreshadow some aspects of the ‘what’ and the ‘how.’”

“We must rise to the occasion,” he added.

The directive is a mixture of Brown’s expectations for what is required to ensure air superiority and for the Air Force to fulfill its mission to defend the United States and its interests. Though only

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eight pages, the document spans a range of critical topics that touch on doctrine, Air Force culture, and the changing threats and adversaries the nation confronts.

“Our Air Force must accelerate change to control and exploit the air domain to the standard the nation expects and requires from us. If we don’t change – if we fail to adapt – we risk losing the certainty with which we have defended our national interests for decades,” Brown warns in the document.

“Only through collaboration within and throughout will we succeed. The Air Force must work differently with other Department of Defense stakeholders, Congress and both traditional and emerging industry partners to streamline processes and incentivize intelligent risktaking. Most importantly, we must empower our incredible Airmen to solve any problem. We must place value in multi-capable and adaptable team builders, and courageous problem solvers that demonstrate value in diversity of thought, ingenuity and initiative.”

In explaining why the steps must be taken, Brown is blunt about the stakes and about the risks as well as the realities of a new strategic environment defined primarily by threats from “peer competitors” such as China and Russia.

The document drives home the point with a sub-headline declaring, “Good Enough Today Will Fail

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Tomorrow.” That sub-headline follows one in the previous section stating, “Uncontested U.S. Air Force Dominance Is Not Assured.”

“Tomorrow’s Airmen are more likely to fight in highly contested environments, and must be prepared to fight through combat attrition rates and risks to the nation that are more akin to the World War II era than the uncontested environment to which we have since become accustomed,” Brown says in the document. “The forces and operational concepts we need must be different. Our approach to deterrence must adapt to the changes in the security environment.”

When asked about the stark language relating to potential attrition, Brown was direct.

“If we ignore the problem and don’t talk about what’s at risk and the potential for high attrition rates and we just continue on the path we’re on, then shame on us,” he said.

“One of my jobs as Chief of Staff of the Air Force is to provide … my best military advice. As I provide that advice as we go forward, I’ll also articulate the risk … I think I owe it to the Air Force, to our senior leadership, a discussion on what the potential is. When you talk about a peer competitor at a high-end fight that is one of the facts that we have to be thinking about. We can’t just wish that part away,” he said.

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actions and the emerging culture Brown outlines in his strategic approach have been underway, driven in part by the demands of the 2018 National Defense Strategy.

Foremost among them, is the continued push to fully integrated joint warfighting.

“We must focus on the joint warfighting concept, enabled by Joint All-Domain Command and Control and rapidly move forward with digital, low cost, high tech, warfighting capacities,” the document states.

The document puts Brown’s personal stamp on the process for ensuring the Air Force continues to successfully transform itself to not only confront peer powers but to adopt a command and control structure that includes air, land, sea, cyber and space as well as seamless connections with other services and allies.

Brown’s strategic approach embraces a cultural shift that “requires greater integration across the services to deny competitors an exploitable seam between the highground domains and the cyberspace that connects and enables effects across them all. As Airmen, we must think differently about what it means to fly, fight and win.”

The strategy calls on Airmen to be “multi-capable and adaptable team builders, as well as innovative and courageous problem-solvers, and demonstrate value in the diversity of thought, ingenuity and initiative.”

The desire for innovation and problem solving, Brown’s document says, must take place as leaders continue pushing “to streamline bureaucracy to the greatest extent possible.”

It adds, “We must design our capabilities and concepts to defeat our adversaries, exploit their vulnerabilities and play to our strengths.

And we must be able to frame decisions and trade-offs with both a near and long-term view of what value our capabilities provide throughout the lifecycle of performance.”

Brown’s strategic approach acknowledges the progress already made under current Department of the Air Force Secretary Barbara

Barrett, her predecessor Heather Wilson and former Chief of Staff Gen. David L. Goldfein.

More is needed, he says, and complacency or a reduction of effort and focus cannot occur.

“While we have made progress, our Airmen need us to integrate and accelerate the changes necessary to explore new operational concepts and bring more rapidly the capabilities that will help them in the future fights,” the document says.

All of this change, Brown says, is likely to occur at a time of tightening budgets. That demands “ruthless prioritization” of programs and actions.

“Likely future budget pressures will require the most difficult force structure decisions in generations.

We cannot shy away from these decisions,” the document says.

The changing nature of national security, Air Force operations and changing budgets, demands that, “we must candidly assess ourselves and address our own internal impediments to change,” Brown asserts in the strategic approach.

“In doing so, we must acknowledge the realities of the fiscal environment to ensure that the U.S. Air Force is gaining the most value and being good stewards of taxpayer dollars. To be successful, the U.S. Air Force must continue its future design work and accelerate the evolution and application of its operational concepts and force structure to optimize its contribution to Joint All Domain Operations.”

While he describes a challenging future, Brown closes with a note of optimism based in history.

“We have done this before, and together we can do it again,” Brown says in the document.

“Today’s U.S. Air Force, and its assumed dominance, was shaped by highly innovative and courageous Airmen throughout our storied history,” the Strategic Approach says. “Seeing the need for change, they forged new technologicallyadvanced force structures and developed novel operational concepts that paved the way for the many successes we have achieved. We can do it again.”

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September 4, 2020

Page 15

AFPC matches first child custody assignment

by Traci Howells Air Force’s Personnel Center Public Affairs A Luke Air Force Base, Arizona, Airman was granted the first courtordered child custody assignment recently, just one day after the application process opened.

Master Sgt. William Rotroff, an F-35 integrated section chief with the 756th Aircraft Maintenance Squadron, was notified that his application was approved less than 24 hours after he submitted his package.

“I was in shock,” Rotroff said. “I know the assignment process is busy, with a lot of moving parts. I’m just so grateful to the assignments team and everyone that was involved with making this happen.”

Rotroff’s commander, Maj. Joseph Langan, said he had the honor of delivering the good news in person and that Rotroff was overjoyed.

“One of the greatest parts about being a squadron commander is that I have the ability and authority to fix many problems for my Airmen relatively quickly,” Langan said.

“Sometimes the problems are messy and have complex solutions, but this was one of the easiest and most satisfying wins I’ve had during my time in command.”

Rotroff said he found himself in a unique position when his overseas orders cancelled unexpectedly, after he already helped relocate his ex-wife and their four-year-old son to Florida, where she would have a stronger support system in his absence.

He remembered the Air Force recently announced a change in policy that now considers child custody agreements when granting Airmen assignments and deferments, so he contacted his local military personnel flight for more information. He went through the requirements carefully to ensure he was a qualified applicant and submitted his package, expecting to receive a decision back in approximately 30 days.

Cristi Bowes, military assignment policy and procedures at the Air Force's Personnel Center, credited Rotroff for being proactive and having all of his documentation readily available, which she said

contributed to the quick turnaround time. Additionally, she said assignment teams were trained and ready to accept and review requests immediately after the application was made available to Airmen.

“We deliberately designed the process to have minimal required coordination to enable the process to be swift for Airmen and their families,” she said.

“This program truly shows how the Air Force cares for their Airmen and families,” she said. “It provides an opportunity for Airmen to continue serving in the greatest Air Force in the world and not have to choose between their career and their children.”

Chief Master Sgt. Daniel Hoglund, AFPC command chief, said he commends the Air Force for taking bold action to get where it is today.

“The ability to take a vision and turn it into reality has set a mark for future programs to continue to generate wins for our Airmen and families,” he said. “I look forward to this program running on all cylinders and becoming normal muscle movement for our assignment functional

managers in our operations execution directorate.”

He added that it takes a team of experts working behind the scenes to ensure these programs are successful.

“The assignment functional managers and policy experts are merging art with science to create positive outcomes for our Airmen,” Hoglund said.

Rotroff said he expects to arrive in Florida just in time for his son’s fifth birthday and said that it would be a huge gift to both of them.

“Everyone’s situation is different, everyone’s urgency is different, but it’s a blessing this program exists,” Rotroff said. “I’m thankful my son will be able have his mom and dad; his happiness means the world to me.”

The Court-Ordered Child Custody Assignment or Deferment consideration program is applicable to officer and enlisted regular Air Force Airmen on active duty for those who meet the program eligibility requirements and when manning at current and gaining location will support reassignment action.

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September 4, 2020

USAFE-AFAFRICA continues dialogue on race throughout AOR

by Tech. Sgt. Rachel Waller USAFE-AFAFRICA Public Affairs On June 1, then U.S. Air Force Chief of Staff, Gen. David Goldfein, acknowledged in a written message to all commanders that the Air Force is not immune to the spectrum of racial prejudice, systemic discrimination and unconscious bias.

“We must work together to create a culture that values diversity and builds trust,” said Gen. Jeff Harrigian, U.S. Air Forces in Europe and Air Forces Africa commander in a letter to USAFE-AFAFRICA Airmen. “This is the time to listen, share perspectives, and learn from each other.”

With those marching orders in mind, the 86th Airlift Wing Equal Opportunity office created the “Power of Facilitation: Talk About Race,” curriculum and course. Within a week, the

course was implemented across U S A F E - A FA F R I C A bases.

“Members guide the discussion, but the overall topic is race,” said Tech. Sgt. Kinesha Greenlee, 52nd Fighter Wing EO specialist.

“Every class is a learning experience. I always hear a different perspective and a light bulb comes on for me. I want people to walk away knowing it is okay to disagree but have an open mind. We want everyone to continue having these difficult discussions and the course is the first step.”

The class is a train-a-trainer course that helps leaders at all levels to understand why these conversations are important while learning how to create

effective and meaningful dialogue within small groups.

“While discussions about social injustices may be considered controversial, they are essential to our Airmen who may not have always felt included or connected because of their demographics,” said Chief Master Sgt. Maritza Mueller, USAFE-AFAFRICA A1Z Chief Enlisted Manager of Integrated Resilience and EO functional manager. “The feedback we have received from students that have attended the training has been nothing short of

positive and supports the need to continue.”

The 31st Fighter Wing EO team helped organize and participated in a “Unity in Diversity Day,” on July 17. It was the first of the USAFE-AFAFRICA bases to have a standdown day that consisted of group discussions and exercises targeting biases and perceptions.

More than 3,000 Airmen, spouses and dependents participated in the event. Overall, more than 154 facilitators were trained from the 31st FW to help facilitate the day.

“The group discussions will not be stopping anytime soon,” said Master Sgt. Shiantee Walton, 31st FW/EO noncommissioned officer in charge.

“We will continue to use the discussions to bring awareness, dialogue, compassion, educa-

tion and support. We will continue to build unity and reconcile trust.”

In addition to continuing the dialogue on race discussions, USAFE-AFAFRICA A1Z is working to provide relevant training to Airmen at all levels over the next year to help combat unconscious bias.

“Leaders who are not involved in the conversation may not feel they are equipped to facilitate these discussions, but I guarantee every leader can be provided the tools and resources to connect with their Airmen, create a safe environment, and just listen,” said Mueller.

“The solution right now is for leaders to engage, listen, and learn how these events are triggering raw emotion affecting their Airmen,” said Mueller.

Bases across USAFEAFAFRICA will continue the conversation as they continue to host and plan events to normalize dialogue on race within the Air Force.

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September 4, 2020

Page 17

Service before self: USAFE-AFAFRICA Airmen give back

Volunteers from U.S. Air Forces in Europe and Air Forces Africa pose for a group photo after cleaning burial sites at Lorraine American Cemetery and Memorial in France, Aug. 19. Airmen and spouses from USAFE-AFAFRICA came together to volunteer their off-duty time to clean up the cemetery where 10,489 WWII service members are buried.

Courtesy photos

Volunteers from U.S. Air Forces in Europe and Air Forces Africa clean grave markers at Lorraine American Cemetery and Memorial in France, Aug. 19. The cemetery is the largest burial site of WWII service members in Europe.

by Tech. Sgt. Rachel Waller USAFE-AFAFRICA Public Affairs

non-commissioned officer in charge of Protocol. “Knowing that there are 10,489 burials and 444 MIA individuals at the Lorraine American Cemetery alone, is mind blowing and humbling. Knowing that we could contribute to keep their final resting place as clean and peaceful as possible is a

Service Before Self is one of the Air Force’s core values and most Airmen stationed overseas have the unique opportunity to give back not only to their military communities but their host nation communities through volunteerism.

There are many avenues for U.S. Air Forces in Europe and Air Forces Africa Airmen and their families to volunteer through private organizations: Like the American Red Cross and the United Service Organizations.

Recently, Airmen and spouses from USAFE-AFAFRICA came together to volunteer their offduty time to clean up the Lorraine American Cemetery and Memorial in France.

“It’s incredible that we get to wake up every day in Germany with the rest of Europe in our backyard essentially — but often times we can forget how we even got here,” said Staff Sgt. Ayisha Jones, USAFE-AFAFRICA unit deployment management cell. “I think it’s

important to honor the ones that came before us.”

According to the American Battle Monuments Commission, there are 10,489 WWII service members buried amongst 113.5 acres at the Lorraine American Cemetery and 444 are listed as missing in action. It is the largest

burial site of WWII service members in Europe.

The volunteers cleaned the headstones by hand and reflected on what it means to serve.

“We forget about the sacrifices that the men and women who came before us made,” said Tech. Sgt. Angelica Ponce, USAFE-AFAFRICA

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Sun: 3 – 9 p.m.

Spesbacher Str. 1b 66877 Ramstein-Miesenbach Phone: 06371 59 99 08 2

Vietnamese Specialties

SAVE THE DATE

Mon-Sun & Holidays: Daily Buffet Lunch menu starting at €8 Original Pho, Curry Mon-Sun: 11:30 a.m. – 3 p.m.

5:30 p.m. – 11 p.m.

Steinstraße 50, 67657 Kaiserslautern Phone: 0631 - 677 80

Beer Tasting & Brewery Tour in English

Starts at 7 p.m.

Sept. 12ge,rm2an0-ai2d.c0om

Contact Lilly: info@

Check our Facebook pages for more details:

@Germanaid @der.schnorres

Pub

ZUM SCHNORRES SCHLOSSSTR. 30 67722 WINNWEILER Open every Friday from 6 p.m.

Micro Craft Beer Brewery SCHNORRES BRAUEREI HAUPTSTR. 28 67678 MEHLINGEN

rewarding experience.”

The ABMC is always looking for volunteers to help with the upkeep of the 26 permanent cemeteries around the world.

For more volunteer opportunities, contact your local Airman and Family Readiness Center.

Kaiserslautern American

Page 18

September 4, 2020

AFIMSC provides AF with innovative post-COVID workspace options

The Air Force Installation and Mission Support Center is developing new business intelligence tools to help the Air Force optimize post-COVID-19 telework operations across the enterprise. AFIMSC will pursue two pilot studies, one at Luke Air Force Base, Ariz., and the other at Scott AFB, Ill., to assess the real-world feasibility of telework effectiveness and cost savings.

Courtesy image

AY MOND Y DA PASTA €5

DAY THURS AY D PIZZCAM PIZZAS ALL 30

€5

by Joe Bela AFIMSC Public Affairs The Air Force Installation and Mission Support Center is providing the Air Force with innovative solutions for teleworking in the wake of COVID-19.

Members of the Air Force Civil Engineer Center and the AFIMSC Ventures innovation office are working together to develop a viable plan that will optimize telework operations for the workforce.

The team delivered a proposed strategy to Air Force Vice Chief of

Staff Gen. Stephen Wilson during a briefing July 22. The proposal supports the Air Force’s Infrastructure Investment Strategy by contributing to the five-percent demolition goal for existing infrastructure.

A recent study showed that “while there are substantial upfront costs to renovate, consolidate and demolish facilities, in the long-term, the Air Force could save up to $90 million annually in facility sustainment costs like custodial services and utilities,” said Marc Vandeveer, AFIMSC chief innovation officer.

MON – FRI 11:00-14:00 & 16:30-22:00 SAT 12:00-22:00 SUN 16:00-22:00

06371-979465 R. 43, RAMSTEIN-MIESENBACH DSTUHLER ST LAN

livery

Now offering de

Phone: 06371 - 62594 Kaiserstraße 40 66849 Landstuhl

Take Away & Delivery

Daily 11:00 - 20:00 Tuesday closed

www.9chan.business.site

Bruchwiesenstr. 17, 66849 Landstuhl Mon - Thu 11:00-14:30 & 16:30-22:30 Fri 11:00-14:30 & 16:30-23:30

Sat 11:00-23:30 Sun noon-22:30

“We wanted to assist senior leaders in their efforts to develop innovative ways of improving efficiency in our business processes, and leveraging these innovations is one way to avoid costs,” said Neal McElhannon, AFCEC Facility Space Planning and Optimization program manager.

This is particularly true when part of the workforce works from home and occupies collaborative space when it works on site.

“Our team performed the enterprise analysis of facility space utilization to help inform in this decision-making process,” McElhannon said.

Post COVID-19, Air Force leaders are targeting 30% of existing administration space to be converted into telework-friendly configurations, Vandeveer added.

Using existing data on Air Force facilities and infrastructure, and new business intelligence tools developed specifically for this initiative, AFIMSC will pursue two pilot studies, one at Luke Air Force Base, Arizona, and the other at Scott AFB, Illinois, to assess the real-world feasibility of telework effectiveness and cost savings.

Existing in a cloud environment called the VAULT at the Air Force Chief Data Office, the new tools will make it easier for the 1,000-plus account holders to access data across the installation and mission support enterprise to help senior leaders make informed decisions about the future of the Air Force workspace, Vandeveer said.

Kaiserslautern American

September 4, 2020

Summer PCS surge, pandemic make for strange bedfellows in Baumholder lodging facility

Page 19

wn!!! ed Pork o t n i New Pork Ribs • Pull t• Briske

Texas Style BBQ!!! for pick-up only

Brisket Jens August-Süßdorf-Str. 12 66877 Ramstein-Miesenbach (at Micha’s Car Service) Mobile: 0151•111 431 52 Email: info@brisket-jens.de Web: www.brisket-jens.de Every Wednesday, Thursday & Friday 5 p.m.-8 p.m. (or sold out)

Brisket ....... €2.60/100g Pulled pork....€2.-/100g Pork ribs........€2.-/100g Cole slaw .......€1.-/100g BBQ sauce .... €0.50/cup (hot or sweet, 100g)

Mixed plate .. €8.-/each

Brisket • Pork Ribs • Pulled Pork incl. 300g meat, cole slaw, BBQ sauce & 1 bun

Sandwich ..... €5.-/each

Brisket or Pulled Pork incl. cole slaw, BBQ sauce Feel free to order mobile, per email or on

SPECIAL: FRESH MUSSELS

We are open!

Please make your reservation.

A Baumholder Lagerhof lodging facility housecleaning staff member checks her list of occupied rooms ,which are color-coded by quarantined, non-quarantined and checked-out customers.

Story and photos by Keith Pannell U.S. Army Garrison Rheinland-Pfalz The Baumholder Lagerhof lodging facility was just gearing up for the beginning of the Summer Surge — the traditional military move season — when COVID-19 hit.

Lagerhof manager George Franklin has been with Army Lodging more than a quarter of a century. The last six months have been something new for everyone involved in the lodging business.

“There has never been anything like COVID-19,” Franklin said. “It changes your whole perspective of your business.

This is more than just a tropical storm in a normal business day. This is a paradigm shift that came along and made us change all policies.”

Franklin said the Baumholder Military Community presents unique challenges not often found in the world of military lodging.

“Eighty percent of our business monthly is Soldiers and families PCSing,” he said. “Many other lodging facilities have more of a leisure travel and TDY customer base. Here, we have those boots on the ground that we know we’re going to have to provide for.”

The 45 rooms and two standalone houses that make up the Lagerhof are a mixture of singleperson and family rooms. The Lagerhof has 14 members on staff and the facility has been near or at capacity since March.

“Everything changed,” said

Martina Wagner, Housekeeping supervisor. “We’ve always cleaned very well, so that hasn’t changed. Now, we have sanitary gel everywhere for the customers and our food service has changed.”

The small dining area in the facility is now dine-in or carry out. A staff member will make a tray so the customer, who may be in mandatory 14-day quarantine, doesn’t handle food or appliances. Those who choose to sit at a table must fill out an information slip for tracing purposes, just as they would in any restaurant off post.

Wagner said there are two categories of customers every day; Soldiers and families leaving who don’t have to quarantine and those arriving who do.

“For those who are under quarantine, they can set their linens out in the hall and we’ll replace them,” she said. “Or, they will go sit outside for some fresh air for a while so we can clean their room.”

Franklin said he hasn’t had many issues with guests trying to break quarantine. He said most of the time, those who do try simply weren’t told by sponsors or their gaining unit what quarantine means.

“We hand out our policies to every one of the service members and their families, to include the sponsor, to let them know these are our policies during that 14-day quarantine,” said Franklin. “Here’s the things we do, here’s the things we provide and here’s how we want you to fall in line with that.”

Keeping the quarantined and the non-quarantined separated in the facility is a difficult chore, Franklin said. They try to keep the two separated on different sides of the facility. However, the summer surge sometimes made that impossible.

“We were full and we may have a family of six I need to move over to one side and a single Soldier to the other to make room. It was a chess game for a while,” Franklin said. “We had more families than singles so it caused us to really think about how to rearrange things. But, every one of our service members who have come through here have adapted so well.”

Franklin said none of his employees batted an eye back in March when he told them there would be customers who potentially could have COVID-19.

“None at all,” he said. “We can all read social media, watch the news and make up our own minds. We sat everyone down and made sure they understand the seriousness and they all came to work the next day.”

“Whatever we have do, we do, and we keep working. We wear masks, gloves and any other protections we need to.

But, we’ve always done that,” said Lilo Peters, cleaning staff.

“We’re Teflon.”

In June of this year, the Baumholder Lagerhof staff learned they won first place in the 2019 Army Lodging Operation of the Year — Small facility category, a feat Franklin chalks up to the staff treating each other, and the guests, like family.

Lots of outdoor seating!

Visit www.burgschaenke-kl.de

Tel. 0631-351 530 Schlossstr. 1 Kaiserslautern-Hohenecken 10 mins from Vogelweh

 Credit cards  Free parking

Every day from 11:30 a.m.- 9:30 p.m.

Authentic Pizza from the wood oven!

Take out available!

Owner Daniele Tarantini Kaiserstr. 79 66849 Landstuhl Phone 06371-914 441

Open daily 11:30-14:00 & 17:30-22:00 (Sat closed at lunch) Closed Wednesday

Fischerstraße 78 • 67655 Kaiserslautern +49 631 20 56 2-0 • hampton.com

OPEN NOW!

Welcome!

We love having you here!

KMC OPENING SPECIAL Book online and save 12% by using this promotion code: US1

Kaiserslautern American

Page 20

September 4, 2020

COMMUNITY EVENTS Photo by Andrey_Popov/Shutterstock.com

»» Contagious Comedy - An Evening of One Act Comedies (and one Greek tragedy!) Get lost in the humor and

laughter of the hysterical one act PG rated comedies, with this beloved KMC Onstage show performing at the KMC Onstage Studio on Daenner Kaserne, Bldg. 3109, Sep. 25-27 and Oct. 2-4. Fri and Sat shows have the curtain going up at 7 p.m., Sun at 3 p.m. Tickets can be bought at the door the day of the show, adults for $8 and student/ seniors for $5. For more information, contact KMC Onstage Theater, Kleber Kaserne, Bldg. 3232, 483-6626; 0631411-6626. »» Family and MWR Community Expo:

Whether you are new to the area or you have called this area of Germany home for a while, the Family and MWR

Expo is a great place to speak with representatives from the community.

Learn about Family and MWR services and programs as well as meet new friends, all while becoming more acquainted with your local area and what it has to offer. Join us Sep.18 on Vogelweh at the Kazabra Club Bldg.

2057 from 11:30 a.m. until 1:30 p.m. to have some fun and learn more about the area you call home. For more information go to Kaiserslautern. armymwr.com. »» Stuffed animal sleepover: Drop off your stuffed animal for a night of fun at the Baumholder Library Oct. 1 between 10 a.m. and 6 p.m. Pick up is the next day between 12 and 4 p.m. where you can see what kind of mischief they got themselves into between

September Special

www.frank-korbwaren.de

€13.9

€9. 955

Candleholder, Length approx. 23.5 inches Offer valid until September 30.

Opening hours:

Monday - Friday 10 a.m. - 6 p.m.

Saturday 10 a.m. - 4 p.m.

Pirmasenser Str. 70 | 66994 Dahn | Tel. 0 63 91 - 31 00 Baskets - Decorations - Home Textiles

the shelves the night before! For more information, contact the Baumholder Library, Smith Bks. Bldg. 8332, 5312841, 0611-143-531-2841. »» Halftime Sports Bar now offering dinein: The Halftime Sports Bar is open

again! Service is take-out or dine-in, Mon-Thu, 11 a.m.-2 p.m. and 4-7 p.m., Fri, 11 a.m.- 2 p.m. and 4-10 p.m., Sat, 11:30 a.m.-7 p.m., closed on Sundays. Enjoy great burgers, Reubens and classic bar food. The menu can be found at Kaiserslautern. armymwr.com/programs/landstuhlcommunity-club. Call in your order ahead of time, or stop by. 486-6107 or 06371-86-6107. »» Flea Market at Armstrong’s Club:

Whether you are new to the area, are looking to fill your home with some treasures, or need to make some room after all the online shopping the past few months, you will not want to miss the Flea Market Sep. 12 at the Armstrong’s Club parking lot from 10

a.m.-2 p.m. If you are looking to sell your goods, tables are $20 each and can be reserved through WebTrac. For more information go to Kaiserslautern. armymwr.com or contact Armstrong’s Club, Vogelweh Housing, Bldg. 1036, 541-9114/9115; 0611-143-5419114/9115. »» SKIESUnlimited: Gymnastics classes:

SKIESUnlimited offers gymnastics classes for children ages 12 months to 18 years old. For class offerings, times and prices contact Parent Central Services, Rhine Ordnance Bks., Bldg. 162, 541-9066; 0611-143-5419065/9066/9067. »» Rocky Horror Shadow Show Auditions:

Be a part of the huge annual KMC Onstage Theater production of the Rocky Horror Shadow Show by auditioning for roles in the cult classic Sep. 14 & 15 from 6-8 p.m. at the KMC Onstage on Kleber Kaserne, Bldg. 3232. Come prepared for a cold read and vocal auditions along with

learning short choreography. No experience is necessary. Casting 15 roles to include ensemble. For more information, contact KMC Onstage, Kleber Kaserne, Bldg. 3232, 483-6626; 0631-411-6626. »» Frozen Jr. Auditions: Based on the beloved Disney film, the story centers on the relationship between two sisters who are princesses, Elsa and Anna. After inheriting the throne, Elsa flees, inadvertently causing the kingdom to become frozen in an eternal winter. Anna must venture out to find her sister and bring her back. Auditions will be held Sep 28 & 29 from 4:30-6:30 p.m. at the KCAC on Daenner Kaserne, Bldg, 3109 for youth ages 6-18 only. For more information, contact KMC Onstage, Kleber Kaserne, Bldg. 3232, 483-6626; 0631-4116626. »» German Hunting Course and Certification at Kaiserslautern Outdoor Recreation:

Kaiserslautern Outdoor Recreation offers you an opportunity to earn your certification to hunt in Germany for only 10% of what a similar course would cost on the economy until Oct. 17. The German Hunting Course is an intensive course that covers all facets of hunting in Germany. During this course, participants will learn land management, game disease and harvest plans, as well as earn the right to hunt and own firearms in Germany. Hunting license is valid throughout the EU and is lifelong.

Ages 18+. Contact Kaiserslautern Outdoor Recreation today at Pulaski Bks., Bldg. 2905, 493-4117, 06313406-4117 for more information and to get signed up, spots are limited! »» Baumholder German Hunting Course and Certification:

Baumholder Outdoor Recreation offers you an opportunity to earn your certification to hunt in Germany for only 10% of what a similar course would cost on the economy from Sep. 12-Dec. 6. The German Hunting Course is an intensive course that covers all facets of hunting in Germany.

During this course, participants will learn land management, game disease and harvest plans, as well as earn the right to hunt and own firearms in Germany. Hunting license is valid throughout the EU and is lifelong.

Ages 18+. Contact Baumholder Outdoor Recreation today for more information and to get signed up, spots are limited! Baumholder Outdoor Recreation, Smith Bks., Bldg. 8167, 531-3401/3402, 0611-143-531-3401/02.

Kaiserslautern American

September 4, 2020

Page 21

Can’t-miss German day trips A-Z: Elmstein

by MilitaryinGermany.com In its way, Elmstein is as quintessentially German as Neuschwanstein Castle or the Brandenburg Gate. But you won’t find it on any Top 10 lists.

Which is good, because Elmstein can be your little secret.

And though this little village in the heart of the Palatinate Forest isn’t necessarily an obvious destination, a trip to Elmstein practically guarantees you something amazing: a gorgeous outdoor adventure.

Just in Case: Two more Elmstein adventures If you’re hungry for more Palatinate Forest fun after (or

Photo by Ammit Jack / Shutterstock.com

before) finishing your trail time, consider these options.

1. Elmstein Zipline Park.

Perfect for families with children older than age 12, or for adults with a sense of adventure. Fly through the trees and get a totally different outlook on the forest.

2. Elmstein village. Though small, it presents a lovely opportunity to stroll the streets, visit the castle ruins, or duck into a mountain biking tour shop.

Getting There By car, Elmstein is 30 minutes from Kaiserslautern, 90

Kaiserslautern Evangelical

Lutheran Church 8:30 am Worship & Holy Communion Sunday School Following

www.KELC.eu

For U.S. government employees, including service members, remember to always follow command regulations, which may be different than host nation policies, when it comes to travel.

Agape Preschool is looking for engaging, fun and motivated Teachers for both K3 and K4 classes.

Serious inquiries are invited to call Call us at +49 (0) 6371-463440 or 0 176 - 632 141 86 or Email: preschool@agapecfc.org

Service in English

Meeting in Ev.-Luth. St. Michaelis Church, Karpfenstr. 7, 67655 Kaiserslautern Email: KaiserslauternLutheran@gmail.com or call 0152-54677961 for directions.

Joe Asher, Pastor

minutes from Wiesbaden and slightly less than two hours from Stuttgart.

KAISERSLAUTERN

CHURCH OF CHRIST www.ktowncoc.org

The one thing you have to see: The Palatinate forest If you travel to Elmstein, it is impossible to miss the Palatinate Forest, which contains one of Germany’s largest and most beautiful stretches of wilderness. In fact, you’ll be immersed by towering trees, brooding shadows and beautiful curving roads long before you get there.

And when you do arrive, you need to leave again. Because to truly see the Palatinate Forest, you have to get out of your car, find a trail (there are many, and almost any one will do), and disappear into the woods. Bring a picnic. Bring your dog. Go by foot or by bike. But just do it.

The Palatinate Forest is exquisite year-round, and particularly so in late summer and autumn. It’s also a tranquil place – which can be a wonderful antidote to autobahns or months spent cooped up with your family. The forest also takes all types: it’s equally great for children, adults, those who prefer to meander and those who prefer to race.

Sun: 10 am, 11 am and 6 pm Wed: 7 pm Mühlstrasse 34 67659 Kaiserslautern Tel. 06 31 - 36 18 59 92 Tel. 06 371 - 46 75 16

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

Buddhist (sGi)

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

Ramstein South Chapel Jewish Shul Area (Bldg 2403) Shabbat Evening Service: 6:00 p.m. Fridays Ramstein South Chapel (Bldg 2403) Service: 10:00 a.m. Saturdays

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)

islamic services

Service: 7:00 p.m. Saturdays

Ramstein South Chapel Mosque Area (Bldg 2403) Jummah Prayers: 1:15 p.m. Fridays Daily Prayers: 1:30 p.m. Monday-Thursday

Wisconsin evangelical lutheran synod (Wels) Ramstein South Chapel (Bldg 2403) Service: 4:00 p.m. 2nd & 4th Sundays

Page 22

Kaiserslautern American

September 4, 2020

Kaiserslautern American

September 4, 2020

Page 23

CINEMA & HOME CINEMA HIGHLIGHTS

Photo by repbone / Shutterstock.com

Movies available on the silver screen at Broadway Kino in English!

THRILLER

ACTION, SCI-FI, THRILLER

Poster and screenshots by Solstice Studios

HORROR

Poster by Warner Bros. Pictures

Poster by IFC Midnight

Unhinged (2020)

Tenet (2020)

The Wretched (2019)

Rachel is running late to work when she has an altercation at a traffic light with a stranger.

Soon, Rachel finds herself and everyone she loves the target of a man who decides to make one last mark upon the world by teaching her a series of deadly lessons.

Cast: Russell Crowe, Jimmi Simpson, Caren Pistorius Director: Derrick Borte

Armed with only one word, Tenet, and fighting for the survival of the entire world, a Protagonist journeys through a twilight world of international espionage on a mission that will unfold in something beyond real time.

Cast: John David Washington, Robert Pattinson, Elizabeth Debicki Director: Christopher Nolan

A defiant teenage boy, struggling with his parent’s imminent divorce, faces off with an old witch who has possessed the neighbor next door.

Cast: John-Paul Howard, Piper Curda, Jamison Jones, Azie Tesfai, Gabriela Quezada Bloomgarden Directors: Brett Pierce, Drew T. Pierce

Some of the latest blockbusters and series available to rent or stream! Check your streaming service for availability.

ACTION, ADVENTURE, DRAMA

Poster by Walt Disney Studios

REALITY-TV

CRIME, DRAMA, MYSTERY

Poster by Apple Inc.

Poster by Disney–ABC Domestic Television

ADVENTURE, FAMILY

COMEDY

Poster by Sinking Ship Entertainment

Poster by Netflix

Mulan (2020)

Long way up (2020)

Ratched (2020)

Dino Dana: The Movie (2020)

Sneakerheads (2020)

To save her ailing father from serving in the Imperial Army, a fearless young woman disguises herself as a man to battle northern invaders in China.

Cast: Yifei Liu, Donnie Yen, Li Gong, Jet Li, Jason Scott Lee, Yoson An Director: Niki Caro

Covering 13,000 miles over 100 days through 16 border crossings and 13 countries, Ewan and Charley journey through glorious and underexposed landscapes in their most challenging expedition to date.

Cast: Charley Boorman, Ewan McGregor Producers: David Alexanian, Russ Malkin

Ratched is a suspenseful drama series that tells the origin story of asylum nurse Mildred.

In 1947, she arrives in Northern California to seek employment at a leading psychiatric hospital where new and unsettling experiments have begun on the human mind.

Cast: Sarah Paulson, Judy Davis Creator: Evan Romansky

Follow Dana Jain, a feisty 10-year-old ‘paleontologist in training’ who eats, sleeps and breathes dinos, as she tries to solve dino experiment 901 — where are all the dino kids?

Cast: Michela Luci, Saara Chaudry, Richie Lawrence Director: J.J. Johnson

Devin, a former sneakerhead turned stayat-home dad, finds himself deep in the hole after falling for one of old friend Bobby’s crazy schemes. To get his money back, the at-odds duo goes on the hunt for the most elusive kicks in the game..

Cast: Allen Maldonado, Andrew Bachelor Creator: Jay Longino

Ramstein

For reservations & information call 06371-937037 For all movies and showtimes visit

Photo by Monkey Business Images / Shutterstock.com

w w w. b r o a d w a y k i n o . c o m / k m c