Annual Kindergraves Memorial Ceremony connects
Deterrent Viking sharpens EOD readiness, Pages 16 &17
Page 26
86th SFS defender receives Purple Heart, Page 2
conducts
Command, Page 13
Photos by Staff Sgt. Sabrina Fuller-Judd 86th Airlift Wing Public Affairs
86th SFS defender receives Purple Heart for deployment actions
Story & photo by
Senior Airman Trevor Calvert 86th Airlift Wing Public Affairs
The incoming alarm wasn’t new, Staff Sgt. Andrew Erixon’s team had heard it many times before on that deployment. This time, the attack began, and the rest came down to training.
Erixon, 86th Security Forces Squadron deployment manager, received a Purple Heart during a ceremony at Ramstein Air Base, May 13, for injuries he sustained leading his team through the attack.
The Purple Heart is the oldest U.S. military decoration still awarded to service members. It traces back to 1782, when George Washington created the Badge of Military Merit to recognize his soldiers, and was reintroduced in 1932 on the 200th anniversary of his birthday. It is presented to those wounded or killed in action against an enemy of the United States.
The ceremony closed out a chapter for Erixon. He’d thought about this day for a long time, two years since the attack, much of the time spent wondering how, or whether, the day would come.
“It feels like I’m closing that chapter,” Erixon said. “Now I can focus on what’s ahead.”
When the attack came, Erixon was acting as a squad leader. He moved his Airmen towards cover and ran for a bunker with another Airman. Then, a munition struck close by as they reached it.
“Honestly, nothing goes through your mind when something like that happens,” Erixon said. “You just follow your training. Your brain shuts off, and you do what you remember from your training.”
After the all-clear was given, Erixon went back to work, helping to account for his people and directing his team to safety. It wasn’t until later, watching him at his post, that his leadership realized something was wrong.
Senior Master Sgt. Thomas Valenzuela, 75th SFS operations superintendent, was Erixon’s flight chief during the deployment. He noticed Erixon had gone pale and was
struggling to hear his radio. Erixon told him he was fine. He wasn’t, he’d been close enough to the blast to receive a concussion, and Valenzuela coordinated his medical care.
“His actions surprised me that day,”
Valenzuela said. “Being in the vicinity of an explosion and then continuing to lead a recovery operation while suffering an injury, that says a lot about his character and grit. He didn’t want to leave his Airmen.”
Valenzuela had known Erixon since 2022, as his flight chief during the deployment. He described him as a dependable, tenacious non-commissioned officer, not afraid to admit when he’s wrong or when he doesn’t know an answer, and someone his Airmen could go to with anything. Where Valenzuela credits the man, Erixon credits the training.
“It shows me the training is very, very important,” Erixon said. “The battle drills,
the small things, the repetition that takes over when there’s no time to think.”
Erixon was one of several defenders wounded in the attack. For Valenzuela, the moment meant more than recognition for one Airman.
“No leader wishes to see any of their troops wounded in combat,” Valenzuela said. “The goal was to go out the door with all my Airmen and come home with all my Airmen.”
U.S. Air Force Staff Sgt. Andrew Erixon, right, 86th Security Forces Squadron deployment manager, receives a Purple Heart medal from U.S. Air Force Brig. Gen. Adrienne L. Williams, 86th Airlift Wing commander, during a ceremony at Ramstein Air Base, May 13. The Purple Heart is the oldest U.S. military decoration still awarded to service members, presented to those wounded or killed in action.
Jochen Balzulat, German-American Club Kaiserslautern president, speaks during the Kindergraves Memorial Ceremony at Daenner Chapel, May 16. The Kaiserslautern Kindergraves Memorial Foundation, which is co-chaired by the German-American Club Kaiserslautern and the Ramstein Area Chiefs’ Group, was established in 1986 to maintain the memorial site, organize remembrance ceremonies and address family inquiries. Photos by Staff Sgt. Sabrina Fuller-Judd
U.S. Air Force Capt. Rotimi Adedokun, 86th Airlift Wing chaplain, offers a graveside blessing with Max Eisfeld, Kaiserslautern Church district priest, during the Kindergraves Memorial Ceremony in Kaiserslautern, May 16. The memorial ceremony, commemorating the 451 children who were part of the U.S. military community and died early in life between 1952 and 1971, consisted of a chapel service followed by a wreath laying and graveside blessing.
Anja Pfeiffer, City of Kaiserslautern deputy mayor, speaks to U.S. and German Kaiserslautern Military Community attendees during the Kindergraves Memorial Ceremony at Daenner Chapel, May 16.
U.S. Air Force Chief Master Sgt. Clifford Lawton, left, 86th Airlift Wing command chief and Chief Master Sgt. Timothy Herrman, 569th United States Forces Police Squadron senior enlisted leader, lay a wreath during the Kindergraves Memorial Ceremony in Kaiserslautern, May 16.
U.S. Air Force Airman assigned to the 86th Airlift Wing reads the names of those buried at the Kindergraves Memorial Site in Kaiserslautern, May 16.
THE HOUSING HYPE TAKE NOTE
Updated Clinic Hours – Important Notice
The 86th Medical Group has updated hours to support mandatory training and unit readiness. The clinic will be CLOSED all day on the third Wednesday of every month for mandatory training.
2026 closure dates are as follows: June 17, July 15, August 19, September 16, October 21, November 18, December 16.
Additionally, we will close at 3 p.m. every Wednesday for unit physical training (PT). Need medical advice while we’re training? Call the Nurse Advice Line: 0800-825-1600 or 06371-46-2273 (Option 3). For life-threatening emergencies, dial 112 or go to the nearest Emergency Room. Thank you for your understanding as we work to maintain a ready and resilient medical force.
ATTN: Those packing up, leaving the KMC
Housing Appearance
KMC Military Family Housing Residents! Curb appeal is important when it comes to showcasing your military family home. Maintaining the landscape and decor reflects a high military family’s standard of living. Please ensure your landscape and homes are kept in tip-top shape by seeding, mowing, edging up, watering, trimming bushes and removal of unsightly weeds.
As a reminder, you must obtain written permission before you make any alterations, additions or improvements to the exterior of your home. Our Self-Help store (Ramstein and Vogelweh) will provide you with the tools and materials to maintain your lawn. You can visit the Self-Help Stores Mon-Fri 10:00-18:00 and Saturday 8:00-16:00, closed on U.S., and German federal holidays.
The KMC Housing Flight thanks you for your cooperation.
Many members wait too long to begin the household goods moving process, thereby causing additional stress and delays. The 86th Logistics Readiness Squadron Personal Property Office advises movers to call them at +49-631-536-7727 three weeks before moving to begin the booking process.
Finance Customer Service
Finance customer service walk-ins are 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. Monday-Friday, in building 2108. Appointments can be booked through the QR code. For all other matters, please submit a ticket through the Comptroller Services Portal at https:// csp.cce.af.mil/
Official Photo Studio has moved
The 86th AW/PA Official Photo Studio has moved to our new permanent location. The new location is in the second-floor offices located in the back portion of the Hercules Theatre, Bldg 2101. To schedule an appointment, go to www.ramstein.af.mil. If you have any questions call DSN: 480-9199.
86 AW Retiree Activities Office –Information
The RAO has moved to a new location, we are now in Building 2787 on Kapaun.
Office hours: Monday through Friday 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., Closed for lunch 12 p.m. to 1 p.m. You may also contact us at email: 86AW. rao@us.af.mil.
Volunteers Needed!
The Retiree Activities Office is seeking dedicated volunteers. Whether you are a retiree, veteran, spouse, or surviving spouse, we welcome you to join our outstanding team. Help identify issues affecting retirees, assist in finding solutions, and support others with your experience and expertise. Your fellow retirees need you.To volunteer, please contact Christina Randel (86 AW RAO Director) at 0151-15297900 or email us at the address above.
Photo by Golubovy/Shutterstock.com
Leadership Connect: Building agile leaders for a dynamic force
by David Meade
U.S. Air Forces Europe - Air Forces Africa
U.S. Air Force and Army officers, enlisted and senior civilian leaders recently gathered with local community leaders to take part in the 2025-2026 iteration of the Leadership Connect Germany program.
The LCG program connects experienced Air Force and Army leaders from the Third Air Force wings at Ramstein and Spangdahlem Air Bases in Germany, and other installations, with civilian industry leaders in the areas of business, academia, industry, culture and public service.
Introduced in 2021 at England Royal Air Force bases Lakenheath and Mildenhall, the program expanded to Germany in 2023 due to its recognized success in developing leadership skills. This year the LCG program broadened its participants to include U.S. Army Soldiers.
The LCG program continues to focus on key leadership topics such as modernization, critical thinking and leadership decisions in fast-changing environments. To further explore these concepts, attendees conducted off-base site visits and leadership engagements with prominent regional organizations.
The 2025-2026 engagements included indepth visits to public broadcast corporation Südwestrundfunk, Westpfalz-Klinikum hospital, the 1. FC Kaiserslautern football club stadium, MiniTec manufacturing plant, multinational engineering company Bosch, fiberrope production company Verope, and a Jakob Becker waste management facility.
For military participants, stepping into these diverse civilian environments provided a unique opportunity for professional growth.
“The Leadership Connect program is
incredibly valuable for our military members because it challenges them to view complex problems through a completely different lens,” said U.S. Air Force Col. Matt Bartlett, Third Air Force deputy commander. “By engaging with successful leaders in the civilian sector, our Airmen, Soldiers, and civilians develop a broader, more adaptable leadership toolkit that directly translates to how we solve problems, manage resources, and lead our own organizations.”
Participants in the program met regularly throughout the winter and spring, giving attendees continuous opportunities to expand their abilities by exchanging ideas and strategies with their host-nation counterparts.
“Stepping outside our standard military framework to see how private-sector innovators approach complex problems was a game changer,” said U.S. Air Force Master Sgt. Devon “Bull” Bullock, 86th Aircraft Maintenance Squadron flight chief. “It helps you re-examine your own team’s operations and ask how we can be smarter and more efficient with the resources we have. Realizing that the principles of leading people, managing scarce resources, and making tough calls are universal has fundamentally expanded my leadership toolkit.”
The 2026 program culminated in a capstone event where the participating local German business leaders were invited inside the gates of Ramstein Air Base. After receiving a tour of the installation and visiting a C-130J Super Hercules up close, the cohort gathered for a graduation lunch hosted by U.S. Air Force Maj. Gen. Moga, Third Air Force commander, celebrating the enduring community partnerships and newly honed leadership skills that participants will carry forward into their future organizations.
Air Force Lt. Col.
603rd Air
personnel recovery coordination cell, speaks to an Allgemeiner Deutscher
roof of the Westpfalz-Klinikum in Kaiserslautern, March 13. The LCG
Air Force and Army leaders from the Third Air Force wings at Ramstein and Spangdahlem
Germany, and other installations, with civilian industry leaders in the areas of business, academia, industry, culture and public service.
Participants of the Leadership Connect Germany program, civic industry leaders, and U.S. Maj Gen. Paul D. Moga, Third Air Force commander, pose for a group photo at Ramstein Air Base, April 24. The 2026 program culminated in a capstone event where the participating local German business leaders were invited inside the gates of the base.
Photo by David Meade
U.S.
Heather Corless (right),
Operations Center deputy director,
Automobil Club helicopter pilot on the
program connects experienced
Air Bases in
Photo by 1st Lt. Kurt Finkenstaedt
U.S. military and civilian participants from the Leadership Connect Germany program take a tour of the orchestra recording hall at Südwestrundfunk in Kaiserslautern, Feb 27. The LCG program focuses on key leadership topics such as modernization, critical thinking and leadership decisions in fast-changing environments.
Photo by David Meade
USAFE-AFAFRICA Medical group leaders sync joint planning at tabletop exercise
Story & photo by Senior Airman Trevor Calvert 86th Airlift Wing Public Affairs
U.S. Air Force medical leaders gathered in Garmisch 4-8 May, 2026, for the U.S. Air Forces in Europe – Air Forces Africa Surgeon General annual tabletop exercise.
Senior leadership joined medical group command teams to equip and plan for operational contingencies through tabletop discussion forum communicating scenarios in a controlled setting to identify gaps, align planning and build a common operational picture.
This tabletop exercise serves as a precursor to larger operational field exercises, giving senior leaders and medical group commanders a shared framework before moving to live training with international partners across the European theater.
Ensuring group leaders have direct access to senior leadership is pivotal in the service’s medical field to save lives quickly and effectively.
This year’s tabletop exercise welcomed distinguished visitors including U.S. Air Force Lt. Gen.
John J. DeGoes, Air Force and Space Force surgeon general, and U.S. Air Force Maj. Gen. Jeannine M. Ryder, Medical Readiness Command-Bravo commander and Defense Health Network-Continental director.
Now in its fourth year, the exercise was hosted by U.S. Air Force Col. Thomas Stamp, USAFE-AFAFRICA command surgeon, and brought together command teams from all eight military treatment facilities across Europe.
“Our goal is to sync with U.S. European Command across the joint force so we can provide the EUCOM commander with the best options from a medical standpoint,” Stamp said. “We are accomplishing the mission of fighting tonight, fighting tomorrow and fighting together.”
The exercise is built around three core objectives: building a shared understanding of each facility’s capabilities across the theater, helping medical group teams understand their individual role in a larger fight and providing an opportunity to advocate for resources and policy changes
directly to senior leadership.
“The third piece, which is really aimed at our distinguished visitors, is an opportunity for us to bring challenges and the opportunity for advocacy,” Stamp said. “To help senior leaders understand why this theater has some advantages and disadvantages, so that they can provide us with resources where we need it.”
DeGoes used the exercise to take in operational concerns directly from medical group commanders and assess where U.S. Air Force headquarters can better support the theater.
“I’m looking at it from how we best support our forces in Europe and to see what the issues are operationally,” DeGoes said. “The Air Force Medical Service is in the process of standing up Air Force Medical Command, and that transition would eventually include USAFE’s medical groups.”
The exercise pushed leaders to think about how care delivery would change in a contested war environment, where dispersed operations and evolving threats are
reshaping how medics operate.
“How do you prepare medically for that environment?” DeGoes said. “How do we have our medics deliver the same amount of care while also making sure they are safe to execute their mission in that kind of newer threat environment?”
Throughout the event, scenarios were built around a fast-moving European conflict where medical teams would have minimal lead time and finite resources to work with. Each group walked through what they could realistically accomplish in a potential conflict, accounting for personnel, equipment, training limitations and the competing day to day demands of caring for their installation populations.
“If we were to enter a conflict on the European continent, it would probably happen with very little forewarning and require a very fast reaction,” Stamp said. “The exercise forces teams to make decisions under pressure, with competing demands and finite resources.”
U.S. Navy Capt. Wayne Smith,
U.S. European Command surgeon, was invited to offer participants a joint force perspective. Smith attended to share how the combatant command thinks about medical planning, what the command expects from the air component in a contingency and where the joint force needs to be aligned ahead of any operation.
“We operate and fight as a joint force, and it’s not easy,” Smith said. “It takes a lot of effort because there are very unique cultures and capabilities, and we sometimes speak different languages.”
Both the Navy and Air Force benefit from these exchanges, with the relationships built well before an operation, often becoming the foundation of how the services work together in a contingency.
“No plan survives first contact, it’s the planning process,” Smith said. “These exercises foster relationships among the team through communication, collaboration and the exchange of ideas. You have to be willing to get uncomfortable, and that’s truly the real power of collaboration.”
U.S. Department of War medical leaders and joint partners pose for a group photo during the U.S. Air Forces in Europe – Air Forces Africa Surgeon General annual tabletop exercise at Garmisch, May 6. The yearly exercise brought together medical group command teams from across the European theater to synchronize planning, assess capabilities and prepare for operational contingencies in support of U.S. European Command.
US Army Surgeon General speaks at Senior Military Medical Leader Forum in Germany
Story & photo by Kirk Frady Medical Readiness Command, Europe
Medical Readiness Command, Europe and Defense Health Network Europe brought together their senior U.S. Army, Air Force and Navy medical leaders from across Europe May 11-12 at Sembach Kaserne to take part in a Senior Leader Forum.
The primary purpose of the two-day forum was to not only enable the successful transition between the outgoing and incoming leaders for Medical Readiness Command, Europe, and Defense Health Network Europe, but also to provide an overall strategy assessment update and allow military treatment facility leaders to provide their initial in-briefs to the incoming commanding general.
The gathering of more than seventy senior U.S. military medical leaders from across the European theater offered a unique opportunity for the medical leaders to engage in a series of lengthy discussions, share ideas and promote collaboration among the services.
The guest speaker at the Senior Leader Forum was Lt. Gen. Mary Izaguirre, the U.S. Army Surgeon
General and Commander of U.S. Army Medical Command.
During her opening remarks to the group, Izaguirre said, “As America’s medical ambassadors, thank you for leading our nation’s medical formations, for building bridges with our allies and partners.”
According to a senior military official, considering political instability across the globe and the current armed conflicts ongoing in Eastern Europe and the Middle East, it is inherent that U.S. Army medical forces remain technically and tactically proficient and can perform their wartime missions on short notice.
“Be more uncomfortable with the status quo than with the unknown,” added Izaguirre. “I challenge all of you to embrace change, challenge assumptions, and lead transformation. Be the change agents our warfighters and their families deserve. Fight for them.”
According to senior military sources, the next ground fight will be different than anything we have experienced in generations. It will require innovation and changing how the U.S. military has done
things in the past.
“Our mission in Europe is defined by one objective – we defend the homeland by medically setting this theater long before conflict begins,” said Izaguirre. “Preparation is your mission.”
Throughout the two-day forum, participants engaged in a series of lengthy discussions and presentations focusing on various aspects of the military medical enterprise to include supporting large-scale combat operations across an entire theater.
According to event planners, this forum will serve as a catalyst for posturing U.S. military medical assets in Europe to better support the warfighter.
“Combat credible care is a promise to our nation that military medicine is ready, standing shoulder to shoulder with our warfighters to deliver the best care in the world,” added Izaguirre.
According to event planners, this Senior Leader Forum provides the foundation for an overall transformation and evolution process in the way U.S. military medical assets work together to support the warfighter, especially here in the European Theater.
The U.S. Army Surgeon General and Commander of U.S. Army Medical Command Lt. Gen. Mary Izaguirre along with Command Sgt. Maj. John Dobbins, Command Sergeant Major for U.S. Army Medical Command, and Command Chief Warrant Officer Deanna Hughes, paid a visit to Medical Readiness Command, Europe and Defense Health Network Europe Headquarters at Sembach Kaserne May 12. Izaguirre and her team are in Germany where they are taking part in a Senior Leader Forum hosted for senior U.S. military medical leaders stationed across the European Theater. The team will also visit the U.S. Army Europe and Africa hosted Sword 26 Exercise taking place in Poland. (Pictured from left to right are Brig. Gen. Mark Stackle, Chief Warrant Officer 5 Deanna Hughes, Lt. Gen. Mary Izaguirre, Command Sgt. Maj. John Dobbins, Brig. Gen. Roger Giraud and Command Sgt. Maj. Kalani Kalili).
Owning the night
A Joint Terminal Attack Controller with the 406th Air Expeditionary Wing provides real-time weather updates and jump clearance for evening training operations over Djibouti, May 2. These specialized operators are critical to securing the airspace and coordinating complex fire support during highstakes recovery missions.
Joint Terminal Attack Controller with the 406th Air Expeditionary Wing provides real-time weather updates and jump clearance for evening military freefall training over Djibouti, May 2. Routine night and low-light training jumps ensure the Airmen maintain peak readiness to execute personnel recovery and combat search and rescue missions within the U.S. Africa Command area of responsibility.
Members of the 406th Air Expeditionary Wing conduct evening military freefall training over Djibouti, May 2. Operating from the African continent requires highly adaptable forces capable of projecting rescue support across distances at a moment’s notice.
A member of the 406th Air Expeditionary Wing prepares to land after conducting evening military freefall training over Djibouti, May 2. Consistent low-light training is critical to maintaining the rapid-response capabilities required for combat search and rescue in austere environments.
Airmen from the 406th Air Expeditionary Wing jump from a C-130H during evening military freefall training over Djibouti, May 2.
A
Photos by Master Sgt. Carlin Leslie 406th Air Expeditionary Wing Public Affairs
A member of the 406th Air Expeditionary Wing recovers his parachute after conducting evening military freefall training over Djibouti, May 2.
US Air Force, US Army join a nurse technician week panel
U.S. Air Force and U.S. Army medical personnel engage with attendees during the nurse technician panel at Ramstein Air Base, May 7. The discussion ranged from how to spur career growth to personal life balance within the joint-service.
Photos by Airman 1st Class Michelle Sies 86th Airlift Wing Public Affairs
U.S. Air Force and U.S. Army medical personnel discuss challenges during the nurse technician panel at Ramstein Air Base, May 7. They discussed work-life balance and opportunities to pursue development within the career field.
U.S. Air Force Airmen assigned to the 86th Medical Group and U.S. Army Soldiers from the Landstuhl Regional Medical Center attend a nurse technician panel on Ramstein Air Base, May 7. The panel was hosted as the first step in preparation for the 86th MDG and LRMC personnel to integrate into a single medical group facility.
UNTERWEGS
TIME TRAVELEXPERIENCE HISTORY
- VR TOUR IN THE MIDDLE AGES
MAY 22 + 25, 2:30/4:30 P.M., OTTERBERG
In 2026 the City of Otterberg is offering American fellow citizens a “Time Travel” tour, a unique experience that brings history to life in a fascinating way. Participants are enthusiastic about this incomparable journey through time, which combines tradition and modernity in a unique way, in English. Time Travel - experience history with all your senses. The Time Travel tour is a unique experience that takes participants deep into the past and allows them to experience history in a completely new and unexpected way. Be there when the new season starts and let yourself be inspired by this fascinating journey through time! Further dates: June 7, July 12. Bookable online at https://www.otterbachotterberg.de/tourismus-freizeit/gaestefuehrungen/time
REMEMBRANCE MARCH
JUNE 5 – 6, WALDSEE, GERMANY TO FRANCE
100km/24 Remembrance March from Germany to France. The route follows memorials, battle fields, from the Siegfried Line/Westwall to the Finish, the Maginot Line in France. Reenactors are very welcome (German, US) There is a shorter 17k route available (Certificate!), from the border to the Finish. We walk in Remembrance of all Soldiers, Sailors and Airmen and civilians of all nationalities. Start your training and honor all victims of war! Registration at kontakt@ig-heimatforschung. de or erik.wieman@gmail.com Further details: https://www.ig-heimatforschung.de/ projekte-allg/100km-world-war-ii-escapeevasion-remembrance-march/
PFINGSTSOMMERFEST
MIT KULTURWANDERUNG
(PENTECOST SUMMER FESTIVAL WITH HIKE)
MAY 24, TENNISPLATZ, ENKENBACH On Pentecost Sunday, May 24, 2026, the local community of EnkenbachAlsenborn, together with participating groups and clubs, will once again host a Pentecost Summer Festival with a cultural hike. Traditionally, it begins with a Weißwurst breakfast before the hiking group sets off to pass through various cultural and culinary stations in the other half of the community, where a large closing festival with the two wellknown live bands “Random Delight” and “KVK-Band” will be celebrated in a relaxed manner. There will also be play activities for the younger ones.
PFINGSTMONTAG
(PENTECOSTAL MONDAY)
MAY 25, GERMANY-WIDE Monday, May 25 is a German holiday, as
well as in most European countries, based on a religious background. All stores and official offices will be closed for business in observance of the holiday. This year it coincides with U.S. Memorial Day.
GUIDED CEMETERY TOUR
MAY 29, 3 P.M., MAIN CEMETERY/ DONNERSBERGSTRASSE,
The guided tour of the Kaiserslautern Main Cemetery, including the old Jewish Cemetery, delivers insight into Kaiserslautern’s cemetery culture and history. The round tour leads to splendid tombstones and important public figures in Kaiserslautern’s town history. Male visitors should not forget to bring headwear. Meeting Point: Entrance Donnersbergstraße, Aussegnungshalle (blessing hall). A registration is required per mail to Touristinformation@kaiserslautern.de or phone +49 (0)631 365 4019. Meeting Point: Entrance Donnersbergstraße, Aussegnungshalle (blessing hall). A registration is required per mail to Touristinformation@kaiserslautern. de or phone +49 (0)631 365 4019.
MAIKERWE (MAY FAIR)
MAY 29 – JUNE 8, MESSEPLATZ, KAISERSLAUTERN
Experience plenty of variety, fun, and excitement at the Kaiserslautern fairgrounds. The Lautrer Kerwe is the largest folk festival in the West Palatinate and is well known far beyond its borders. Fancy a little mini vacation from everyday life? No problem! Whether you want to relax and switch off or rather dive in and let loose – the Lauter festival leaves nothing to be desired! The market organizers will ensure that among the roughly 140 vendors, the classic rides, like the Ferris wheel and chain carousel that simply belong to the fairground feeling, are just as represented as the trendy new attractions. Fascinating fireworks, live music, and plenty of food and drinks. The scent of roasted almonds, gingerbread, crepes, and cotton candy enchants not only sweet tooths, for more savory dishes, there are grilled pork knuckles, crispy chicken, crunchy sausages, steaks, various fish specialties, and much more!
BAUERNMARKT (FARMERS’ MARKET)
MAY 31, NEUER DORFPLATZ, WEILERBACH
Enjoy a colorful farmers’ market with fresh regional produce, artisan display, food and drinks, and start getting into the summer spirit!
SUNDAY SHOPPING
MAY 31, 1 – 6 P.M., CITY CENTER/COMMERCIAL AREA, KAISERSLAUTERN
Shopping pleasure for the whole family. the shopping city of Kaiserslautern invites you to the popular open-for-
business Sunday. Numerous shops in the city center as well as in the commercial areas will open their doors and offer visitors a relaxed shopping experience. In addition to the latest fashion and technology trends, attractive offers await visitors. The diverse gastronomy in the city center also invites you to linger. As usual, all public parking spaces in Kaiserslautern can be used free of charge this Sunday.
HOHENECKEN CASTLE TOUR
JUNE 3, 4 P.M., CASTLE PARKING LOT, HOHENECKEN
A walk up to the Hohenecken Castle is exciting: not only to enjoy the panoramic view over the Palatinate Forest, but also to explore the castle from the Hohenstaufen period. It was built out of the local red sandstone in the 12th century and then destroyed in 1688. Come and hear the tales of the buried treasure or Maid Hildegard of Hoheneck. Discover the use of the various chambers with many details from life in the Middle Ages. In collaboration with the Association of Friends of the Hohenecken Castle. Meeting point: Hohenecken Castle Parking: Burgherrenhalle, Forststraße 2a. A registration is required per mail to da-geh-ich-mit@kaiserslautern.de or phone +49 (0)631 365 4019.
FRONLEICHNAM
(CORPUS CHRISTI DAY)
JUNE 4, GERMANY-WIDE
Fronleichnam is a German holiday celebrated on Thursday, June 4. Based on a religious background, all stores and official offices will be closed for business in observance of the holiday.
RÖMERFEST
(ROMAN FESTIVAL)
JUNE 6 AND 7, CITY CENTER/ SCHLOSSPARK, ALZEY
In the beautiful setting of Alzey Castle, 130 performers present Roman civilian life with great attention to detail. There are numerous spectacular events, including gladiator fights, Roman cavalry displays, shooting demonstrations, a bird of prey show, formations, and equestrian demonstrations. Children can discover and try out Roman techniques during hands-on activities. Roman merchants, along with food and drinks, invite visitors to browse and enjoy themselves on Saturday and Sunday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Tickets for the Roman Festival are available in advance and at the box office. Or, enjoy a Roman City Tour – Salve, Altiaium – “A Trip Through Roman Times” Saturday, June 6 and Sunday, June 7 at 10:30 a.m. and 1:30 p.m. Meeting point: Town Hall forecourt. City tour (approx. 1.5 hours), exclusive guided tour of the Roman
camp (approx. 0.5 hours), a glass of Roman wine “Mulsum” & free admission to the Roman Festival.
40 YEARS UNESCO WORLD HERITAGE SITE
VARIOUS DATES, KAISERTHERMEN/ AMPHITHEATER, TRIER
The City of Trier is celebrating its 40th anniversary of being a UNESCO World Heritage Site with its Roman ruins. Various special events, such as gladiator fights, Roman cavalry demonstrations, “Food and Drink in the Roman Empire,”, and a Roman military display are taking place throughout the summer. For details and dates visit: www.trier-info. de/40-jahre-welterbe
FRÜHLINGSFEST
(SPRING FESTIVAL)
JUNE 13 – 15, CITY CENTER, OTTERBERG
The Spring Festival in Otterberg is held every two years and opens on Saturday, June 13 at 7:00 p.m. on the square in front of the Abbey Church. The mayor and the Spring Queen inaugurate the festival with music from the Otterberg “Harmonie” association, followed by a well-known regional live band from about 8:30 p.m. At 6:00 a.m. on Sunday cannon shots wake the town and signal a musical parade by the Harmonie club, and everyone is invited to join the march and the subsequent breakfast. The festival’s highlight is a historic parade at 1:00 p.m., featuring over 1,000 participants in period costumes, fanfare bands, Cistercian monks, Walloons, Huguenots, the town’s night watchman, and the Spring Queen in a decorated carriage. Kindergartens, elementary schools, local clubs, businesses, and themed floats add color to the procession. After the parade, participants and guests walk together to the forest festival site about 3 km outside town on the road to Höringen.
ROCK OF AGES MUSICAL
JUNE 13, 8:30 P.M., FREILICHTBÜHNE, KATZWEILER
ROCK OF AGES: Hairspray, leather, and the greatest rock anthems of the 80s! Get ready for a journey back in time to the era of glam metal! The open-air stage in Katzweiler presents the Broadway jukebox musical that makes every rock fan’s heart beat faster: Experience an explosive mix of great love, crazy characters, and unforgettable rock anthems of the 1980s – all under the summery starry sky of Katzweiler. The plot is carried by the greatest hits of the 80s rock giants. Sing and headbang along to immortal classics from: Night Ranger REO Speedwagon Pat Benatar Twisted Sister Poison Foreigner ... and many more! Further dates online at www.
citykit.plus, www.westpfalz.de, www. kaiserslautern.plus
DIE LANGE NACHT
DER KULTUR 2026
(LONG NIGHT OF CULTURE)
JUNE 13 – 14, CITY CENTER, KAISERSLAUTERN
Coordinated by the city’s Department of Culture, the event fills the city center with over 30 venues and hundreds of artists, letting visitors create their own program. Highlights include the Lange -Nacht-Bus with Stefano Cattaneo and Carlos Abyazar, plus music, dance, visual art, performance and experimental works — e.g., the Fruchthalle foyer audiovisual and a 360° installation at 42kaiserslautern. Major institutions (Pfalzgalerie, Pfalztheater, music school, city museum) and the independent scene (SUKURA, Kabinett K2 / KunstRaum Westpfalz, UNION-Studio, Salon Schmitt) and partners like the illuminated Japanese Garden all participate. Full program: https://safe.menlosecurity.com/doc/ docview/viewer/docN819B2A9F8501428c81294e8207b657faeed6b1361e430690a0259424f0e4d4dac1fa2bb4e2be
GROUP TOURS IN ENGLISH
VARIOUS DATES, TOURIST INFO, KAISERSLAUTERN
Kaiserslautern is celebrating its 750th anniversary of city rights this year. For group tours in honor of the occasion, such as a city bus tour, guided cemetery tour, guided historic walk, Hohenecken castle, K’town for kids and more, visit: https://www.kaiserslautern.de/tourismus_freizeit_kultur/tourismus/besichtigungstouren/besichtigungstouren_ gruppen/index.html.en
MAINZER JOHANNISNACHT
JUNE 19 – 22, RHINE PROMENADE/ CITY CENTER, MAINZ
In 1968, the year of the 500th anniversary of Johannes Gutenberg’s death, Karl Delorme, launched the folk festival. Since then, the memory of the great inventor Johannes Gutenberg has been celebrated. Look forward to a grand celebration with a diverse program: Johannisnacht stretches along the banks of the Rhine from the Kaisertor to the Weintor and from Fischtorplatz via Liebfrauenplatz to Schillerplatz. In addition to carousels and other rides, there is an artists’ market along the banks of the Rhine. The market offers handmade products and a variety of creative ideas in the areas of jewelry, clothing, decoration and gifts. Also look forward to an extra-large, colorful program featuring talented artists and more in RheinlandPfalz’s capital city. Details: https:// www.mainzer-johannisnacht.de/en/
Photo by Alexander Pütz
ABC in KMC: Sembach
Though the peaceful village of Sembach — complete with its own autobahn exit — is little known to many in the Kaiserslautern Military Community, the U.S. Army post on the hill, commonly called Sembach Kaserne, has played a significant role in the region’s military history.
The village itself has about 1,200 local inhabitants, and about 220 American service members and their dependents have also found a home. Always interested and eager to participate in village events, they add dynamic to a lively community.
An imperial visitor
Sembach was first officially documented in the 13th century and eleven historic buildings are recorded in the village. These include an old schoolhouse, a town hall, two churches, the “Ritterbau,” a sandstone structure along L401, a former post office and a veteran’s monument at the cemetery.
Sembach was part of the French Republic in the early 1800s and it is said that Napoleon himself spent a night at the “Amtshaus” (official house) enroute to Mainz and gave the historic plaza its name “Pariser Hof.” He is also noted for constructing the “Kaiserstrasse” from Paris to Mainz, now known as L401. The “Amtshaus” and the “Zehntenscheune,” (tithe barn), where farmer’s paid dues with the tenth portion of their harvest, had to be torn down and the area in the village center has undergone con-
Welcome to Sembach!
I am deeply encouraged by the strength of our German-American partnership. In nearly two years as Mayor of Sembach, we have achieved much, and it is truly inspiring to see our communities steadily unite. I hope we continue building on this momentum together. Sembach is proud to have you with us always.
Personally, alongside my mayoral duties I also proudly serve with the U.S. Forces. As I mark my 20-year anniversary this year, watching our communities grow closer fills me with great pride and gratitude.
Mayor Peter Beutler
struction with two new residential buildings.
The village itself is a quiet residential area, where children can play ball on side streets and residents enjoy long walks with furry friends along bright yellow rapeseed fields and blue seas of cornflowers. There are diverse recreational places to experience in the vicinity, such as Donnersberg with the Celtic Village, and its Samhain Festival on Halloween, and Mehlinger Heide.
Military significance
From 1953 to 1995 the community was home to Sembach Air Base, the 86th Fighter Wing and 17th Air Force. Surprisingly, the base was comprised of two sections roughly a mile apart. The one, up on the hill, called “Heuberg” (hay mountain) lies in Donnersberg County and consisted of administrative facilities, a housing area, schools, a chapel and movie theater, a medical center and two clubs. The other section further south housed the runway and support facilities, such as the 601st Civil Engineering Squadron and operational units.
Although the installation is small, it sits inside two different municipal unions (Winnweiler and Enkenbach-Alsenborn) and even spans two counties. After the war, military planners wanted bases to deter Soviet aggression and to project strength, while local farmers fought to keep their land and repeatedly disrupted surveying. Following protracted negotiations, officials reached a
compromise and split the site: the runway was built on the flat terrain in Kaiserslautern County, and the hilltop land, then mostly forest with little agricultural value, in Donnersberg County was used for support facilities. The county and community line (Sembach/ Münchweiler) now runs almost directly through the gatehouse at the hilltop entrance.
In 1995 the flightline premises were returned to the German government and have been developed into a 226-hectare large commercial center with quick access to A63. Several companies have settled there, including a waste disposal enterprise, a glass recycling firm, energy and IT-related firms and a large shipping and distribution company. A water tower close to the control tower paints a lovely red skyline during summer sunsets.
Army taking over
Many of the organizations on the upper section of the base were relocated to Ramstein Air Base after 1995 and eventually the premises were closed in 2010 to be transferred to the U.S. Army.
Since then, a number of Army organizations have moved to the installation including 68th Theater Medical Command, Medical Readiness Command, Europe, Defense Health Network Europe, 10th Army Air and Missile Defense Command, DOWEA – Europe Elementary School, 52d Air Defense Artillery (10th AAMDC), 30th Medical Brigade, 519th Hospital Center (30th MB), U.S. Army NATO Brigade, 409th
Contracting Support Brigade, 598th Transportation Brigade, Exchange (AAFES) – Europe, TRICARE Eurasia & Africa, Medical Support Unit – Europe, 779th Medical Wing, 33rd Army (USAREUR) Band, Defense Health Agency, American Forces Network – Europe, Correctional Activity – Europe, Service Credit Union Europe HQ, US Navy Warrior Transition Program (WTP), USAREUR-AF Vehicle Registration, U.S. Army Aeronautical Services Detachment, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Central Europe, Defense Logistics Agency –Energy, Defense Manpower Data Center, Support Center – Europe, WIC Overseas, Army Recreation Machine Program, Region Library Services, Musical Instrument Repair - Europe/Pacific, and Network Enterprise Center Ops Cell, 102d SIG Bn.
Country life
Sembach offers year- round activities, from the August Kerwe and parade to the summer Bulldog Rennen tractor races, St. Martin’s parade with its bonfire, and the November boundary walk. The Musikverein presents regular concerts, December features a living Advent calendar, and three local restaurants provide welcoming spots to meet residents.
The newly formed Landfrauenverein brightens the village with seasonal flower plantings and decorations, organizes family events and flea markets, runs a small library, and invites new members. A
book - exchange booth is also available at the central bus stop.
Community Engagement
Military members and their families actively supported events all season. 30 MED soldiers helped set up and break down the annual town festival, while DES provided a firetruck to fill water tanks. The American community ran a food and drink stand at Christmas events, and a German-American Stammtisch — plus a Facebook group — led to a German-bowling night. A language and culture class began in February, a town hall for the American population was held in March, and service members attended the Night of the Oscars; more highlights are planned. Several U.S. and NATO children now attend the local kindergarten and are experiencing German culture from an early age.
Storks love Sembach!
The former runway area has been renatured and is home to large flocks of storks every year as well as scores of smaller bush dwellers and rodents. A large solar park is located at the eastern end of the former runway. A bold old oak tree, once hit by lightning, at the corner of the access road coming up “Snake Hill” speaks of the times when service members were welcomed home with yellow ribbons in the 1970’s.
Quaint — “klein, aber fein,” as Germans say — Sembach may be small, but it has played an outsized role in history and remains a charming community today.
Story & photo by Gina Hutchins-Inman 86th Airlift Wing Public Affairs
Sembach Kaserne, or Heuberg, seen from the village with bright yellow rapeseed fields.
USAG Rheinland-Pfalz honors selfless service at Volunteer of the Year ceremony
by Mary Del Rosario U.S. Army Garrison Rheinland-Pfalz
U.S. Army Garrison Rheinland-Pfalz honored the outstanding service of its volunteer workforce during the Volunteer of the Year recognition ceremony at Sembach Kaserne, May 8.
More than 100 guests attended the event to honor the 57 nominees. Col. Jeffery Higgins, USAG Rheinland-Pfalz commander, opened the ceremony.
“We are here to recognize the men and women who dedicate their most precious commodity, their time, to the betterment of our military community,” said Higgins. “You are
the force multipliers that make our sprawling operations not just functional, but successful,” he added.
In 2025, USAG Rheinland-Pfalz volunteers contributed more than 40,000 hours valued at $1.4 million supporting programs including Army Community Service, Child and Youth Services, Cub Scouts, American Forces Network, KMC Onstage, Religious Services, Armstrong’s Club, Better Opportunities for Single Soldiers, Department of War Education Activity, Global Military Lactation Community and the United Service Organizations.
The winners in each category were:
• Military Volunteer of the Year: Francisco La Porte
• Single Soldier: Ija’Nai Moore
• Family member: Bailee McCollum
• Civilian: Toby Holland
• Youth: Keandre Anderson
Nelly Olson, Army Community Service Employment Readiness Program Manager with USAG Rheinland-Pfalz’s Directorate of Family and Morale, Welfare and Recreation, who also serves as the Army Volunteer Corps Coordinator for the garrison, said this annual event promotes a culture of giving back, while boosting volunteer and community morale.
“Recognizing our volunteers is our way to say thank you and honor the selfless impact they make within our community,” she said.
Interested volunteers can explore garrison volunteer opportunities by making an account in the Volunteer Management Information System at https://vmis. armyfamilywebportal.com
U.S. Army Garrison Rheinland-Pfalz sets, serves, and secures the total force community, enabling power projection for the European Theater.
Connect with us:https://linktr.ee/usag_rp
U.S. Army Garrison Rheinland-Pfalz recognized its volunteer workforce during a Volunteer of the Year ceremony at Sembach Kaserne, May 8. In 2025, volunteers contributed more than 40,000 hours, valued at $1.4 million supporting programs including Army Community Service, Child and Youth Services, Cub Scouts, American Forces Network, KMC Onstage, Religious Services, Armstrong’s Club, Better Opportunities for Single Soldiers, Department of War Education Activity, Global Military Lactation Community and the United Service Organizations. Photos by Sgt. Terry Vongsouthi, Training Support Activity Europe
Medical Readiness Command, Europe conducts Change of Command
Medical Readiness Command, Europe bid farewell to its commanding general and welcomed a new commander during a change of command ceremony May 13 at Sembach Kaserne.
U.S. Army Brig. Gen. Roger Giraud, who commanded MRC, EUR since Oct. 2023, relinquished command to U.S. Army Brig. Gen. Mark Stackle.
Giraud departs Europe for his new position in Falls Church, Va., where he will assume the duties as Deputy Surgeon General for the U.S. Army Office of the Surgeon General and Army Medical Command.
Stackle comes to MRC, EUR from Ft. Bragg, N.C., where he was the command surgeon for U.S. Army Western Hemisphere Command.
In addition to being the commanding general of MRC, EUR, Giraud also served as the command surgeon for U.S. Army Europe and Africa, director of Defense Health Network Europe and 21st Chief U.S. Army Medical Service Corps.
The reviewing officer for the change of command ceremony was U.S. Army Lt. Gen. Mary K. Izaguirre, the U.S. Army Surgeon General and commander of U.S. Army Medical Command.
“Under Brig. Gen. Giraud’s leadership,
Medical Readiness Command, Europe and Defense Health Network Europe became an integrated, unified command structure that span Army, Navy, and Air Force medical facilities,” said Izaguirre. “Holding true to his conviction that he would fight one headquarters, regardless of the numbers of “hats” he wore, he charged these staffs to operate as a single, cohesive headquarters through complex NATO and USAREUR-AF exercises, maximizing value to the warfighter.”
During her remarks, Izaguirre also welcomed Stackle as the new MRC, EUR commander, and challenged him to ensure the command continues to be ready, responsive and relevant to the Army’s mission and flexible to today’s dynamic environment.
U.S. Army medical Soldiers have been providing comfort, care and compassion to the wounded, ill and injured across Europe since the end of World War II.
“For two and a half centuries, Army medicine has stood shoulder to shoulder with our warfighters, ensuring that Soldiers are kept in formations, in the field and in the fight,” added Izaguirre. “Your mission remains unchanged — to strengthen the hand of the commanding general by keeping the force in the most vigorous health. This is the task that Medical Readiness Command, Europe executes every single day.”
In his farewell remarks, Giraud thanked his family for their unconditional support and the MRC, EUR and DHN-EUR teams for their hard work and dedication.
“Ceremonies like this are important,” said Giraud. “They mark transition — but more importantly, they mark trust. Trust in leadership. Trust in teams and trust in the mission that endures long after any one of us moves on.”
According to senior military medical sources, Medical Readiness Command, Europe and Defense Health Network Europe have set the pace for the military medical enterprise in Europe.
“Whether it’s training Ukrainian Armed Forces medics on tactical combat casualty care, deploying to and treating real world patients in Africa as part of a medical readiness exercise, treating military working dogs, providing care for forward deployed soldiers in support of the eastern flank, rising to the challenge in Midnight Hammer and then Epic Fury, or performing critical surgical procedures at Landstuhl Regional Medical Center, our servicemembers continue that legacy of care,” added Giraud.
In his first opportunity to address the command, Stackle thanked the MRC,EUR team for their efforts in putting together the change of command ceremony and that he looks forward to working with members of the team.
“To the men and women of Medical Readiness Command, Europe, I am in awe of what you do every day,” said Stackle. “You are a cornerstone of our medical support and a critical component of our warfighting readiness.”
Stackle also emphasized the importance of integrated teams and collaboration among the various military medical services in Europe.
“As the past several months have shown, this is not a mission we undertake alone,” added Stackle. “We are the core of a powerful and integrated “team of teams” known as Team MED EUR-AF.”
As part of the MRC, EUR mission, it generates individual and collective readiness of the Army medical force in Europe, while providing high quality Health Service Support/ Force Health Protection capabilities to enable the readiness of supported commands in Europe and Africa.
In addition to taking command of Medical Readiness Command, Europe, Stackle also assumed duties as director of the Defense Health Network Europe. Proudly serving 220,000 beneficiaries, the DHN-EUR network delivers ready, reliable care and supports medical readiness in 22 strategically located military treatment facilities in Bahrain,
Story & photo by Kirk Frady Medical Readiness Command, Europe
Belgium, Germany, Greece, Italy, Spain, Turkey, and the United Kingdom.
U.S. Army Gen. Christopher Donahue, commander of U.S. Army Europe and Africa, presents the Legion of Merit award to Brig. Gen. Roger Giraud May 13. Medical Readiness Command, Europe bid farewell to U.S. Army Brig. Gen. Roger Giraud during a change of command ceremony May 13 at Sembach Kaserne. Brig. Gen. Giraud, who commanded MRC, EUR since Oct. 2023, relinquished command to U.S. Army Brig. Gen. Mark Stackle. Giraud departs Europe for his new position in Falls Church, Va., where he will assume the duties as Deputy Surgeon General for the U.S. Army Office of the Surgeon General and Army Medical Command. (Pictured from left to right: Lt. Gen. Mary Izaguirre, Gen. Christopher Donahue, Brig. Gen. Roger Giraud and Kelly Giraud).
Sword 2026 casualty staging area
U.S. Army Capt. Tony Onyingo, a public health nurse assigned to the 167th Medical Augmentation Detachment, 30th Medical Brigade, renders aid to a simulated casualty at the Sword 26 casualty staging area during training at Drawsko Combat Training Center, Poland, May 12. The training improves Soldiers’ ability to stabilize casualties and coordinate movement under realistic conditions. Although NATO allied medical practitioners commonly use a CSU, the U.S. Army has not previously trained with the use of a CSU during medical missions. During Sword 26, 30th MB is practicing this innovation to gain lessons learned during a simulated LSCO flight as well as enhance interoperability with NATO medical allies.
U.S. Army Soldiers assigned to the 30th Medical Brigade, 21st Theater Sustainment Command, off-load a simulated casualty after providing medical aid during Sword 26 casualty staging area training at Drawsko Combat Training Center, Poland, May 12. Casualty care training builds confidence and improves unit readiness during high-stress situations.
U.S. Army Sgt. Charles Dubin, a practical nursing specialist assigned to the 519th Hospital Center, 30th Medical Brigade, treats a simulated casualty at the Sword 26 casualty staging area during training at Drawsko Combat Training Center, Poland, May 12. The event strengthens tactical medical skills and reinforces the importance of rapid casualty care in a field environment.
assigned to the 591st Hospital Center and 167th Medical Augmentation Detachment, 30th Medical Brigade, carry a simulated casualty to the Sword 26 casualty staging area at Drawsko Combat Training Center, Poland, May 12. Casualty movement training helps prepare Soldiers to respond quickly and effectively during combat operations.
U.S. Army Sgt. Kyurn Taylor (left) and Spc. Johnathon Gragg (right),
Photos by Pfc. Kaiden Silversmith 21st Theater Sustainment Command
U.S. Army Sgt. Kyurn Taylor, a practical nursing specialist assigned to the 591st Hospital Center, 30th Medical Brigade, directs a simulated casualty into the Sword 26 casualty staging area at Drawsko Combat Training Center, Poland, May 12. Casualty staging areas help organize treatment, accountability and evacuation during large-scale training events.
US Army Brig. Gen. Mark Stackle assumes command of Medical Readiness Command, Europe
by Kirk Frady Medical Readiness Command, Europe
U.S. Army Brig. Gen. (Dr.) Mark Stackle, the new commander of Medical Readiness Command, Europe (MRC, EUR) and director of Defense Health Network - Europe (DHN-EUR), conducts his first town hall meeting with military and civilian staff members of both organizations May 14 at Sembach’s Tiger Theater. Stackle took command of Medical Readiness Command, Europe during a ceremony at Sembach Kaserne May 13. Stackle comes to MRC, EUR
from Ft. Bragg, North Carolina where he was the command surgeon for U.S. Army Western Hemisphere Command. Prior to that, he commanded Brooke Army Medical Center and the United States Army Institute of Surgical Research at Ft. Sam Houston, Texas. He is certified by the American Board of Family Medicine and is a Fellow of the American Academy of Family Physicians. He received his Doctor of Medicine degree from Georgetown University School of Medicine and completed his Family Medicine residency at Tripler Army Medical Center in Hawaii where he served as Chief Resident.
21st TSC Hero of the Week, Sgt. JaLesa Morrow
by Sarah Ridenour 21st Theater Sustainment Command
Meet Sgt. JaLesa Morrow, a 42A human resources specialist with Area Support Group – Black Sea.
Sgt. Morrow’s leadership describes her as a “relentless go-getter.” She anticipates issues, streamlines processes, and gets things done. Her proactive work ethic ensures that critical personnel actions are
processed flawlessly, directly contributing to our overall readiness and mission success.
Morrow exemplifies leading from the front when it comes to taking care of her Soldiers. She is deeply invested in the welfare of her team, ensuring that no Soldier is left unsupported. Her dedication to customer service and her genuine care for the people in the organization make her an invaluable asset to ASG-BS.
U.S. Army Soldiers assigned to the 30th Medical Brigade, 21st Theater Sustainment Command, move a simulated casualty to the Sword 26 casualty staging area at Drawsko Combat Training Center, Poland, May 12. The exercise builds readiness by testing casualty care, communication and evacuation procedures in a tactical environment.
Defuse, clear, enable: Deterrent Viking sharpens
Story & photos by Senior Airman Dylan Myers 86th Airlift Wing Public Affairs
Explosive ordnance disposal Airmen assigned to the 786th Civil Engineer Squadron hosted Operation Deterrent Viking II at Baumholder Military Training Area, May 3–8. Operation Deterrent Viking brought together over 50 EOD technicians, strengthening EOD capabilities, from units across Incirlik Air Base, Türkiye; Spangdahlem Air Base; Aviano Air Base, Italy; Cape Canaveral, Florida; and NATO Allies from Slovakia and Belgium.
The comprehensive training objectives of the event aimed to sharpen skills like unexploded ordnance identification and disposal, land navigation, casualty evacuation, controlled detonations, in addition to live counter-drone procedures for the first time during Deterrent Viking. EOD technicians worked through scenarios that involved performing defensive procedures while unmanned aircraft systems from simulated oppositional forces operated over participants.
U.S. Air Force Master Sgt. Weston Cobb, 786th CES EOD quality assurance noncommissioned officer in charge, said the training event was built to replicate the full weight of a deployed environment. “Think of it as a complete deployment training event,” Cobb said. “We’re out with minimal tools, minimal equipment, minimal support, doing the same job in high risk, nonpermissive environments.”
Divided into ten teams, members ran operations simultaneously throughout the
week before ending each day with a debrief, exchanging lessons learned, and refining tactics across units, partners and Allies. Event planners adjusted scenarios in realtime based on team performance, pulling directly from real-world reports to keep training relevant to the threats EOD forces face globally.
The Baumholder Military Training Area allowed for U.S. Airmen and Allied forces to be fully immersed in a simulated real world environment. This provided handson, large-scale experience of collaboration and team coordination sharpening proficiency downrange.
“A lot of our skills are perishable,” said Senior Airman Kelsey Ockman, 786th Civil Engineer Squadron EOD team member. “Getting hands-on time with ordnance and improvised explosive devices — that’s all very valuable time for us to train.”
Cobb said beyond technical proficiency,
Operation Deterrent Viking built the confidence that carries EOD technicians through their most demanding moments downrange.
“You can watch it from day one to day five and it just grows,” Cobb said. “They get more confident, more courageous and they attack things from completely different angles than what they had previously because of the skills they gain here.”
Training events like Operation Deterrent Viking ensure EOD forces remain ready to clear explosive threats and sustain the Air Force’s ability to generate airpower in support of NATO commitments across the European theater.
U.S. Air Force explosive ordinance disposal technicians prepare for an EOD inject at the Baumholder Military Training Area, technicians enable CEG Airmen safe access to damaged infrastructure after an attack, making their readiness the foundation
U.S. Air Force Staff Sgt. Adam Bell, 45th Civil Engineer Squadron Explosive Ordnance Disposal flight team member, secures the around a simulated damaged and disabled aircraft, during Operation Deterrent Viking on the Baumholder Military Training Area, 7. EOD technicians from the 45th CES EOD from Patrick Space Force Base, Florida, came to participate in Operation Deterrent alongside a plethora of other organizations and Allied partners to share best practices.
Airmen receive a post-training brief during Operation Deterrent Viking at the Baumholder Military Training Area, May 7. EOD provide full-spectrum response capability to incidents involving chemical, biological, radiological and nuclear hazards contingency operations. Exercises like Deterrent Viking validate a unit’s ability to scale that response across multiple squadr across the European theater.
Allied and partner nation Explosive Ordnance Disposal technicians watch the controlled detonation of explosives during Deterrent Viking on the Baumholder Military Training Area, May 7. Training alongside units from across the European theater allowed technicians to practice integrating augmented forces, a key component of executing EOD operations at a large scale during contingency operations.
May 5. As the EOD flight within the 786th Civil Engineering Group, foundation of installation recovery operations.
U.S. Air Force Staff Sgt. Taylor Lanteine, 786th Civil Engineer Squadron explosive ordnance disposal flight team leader, uses a metal detector during Operation Deterrent Viking training Baumholder Military Training Area, May 5. EOD technicians employ specialized tools including robotics, X-ray and radiation detection equipment. Exercises like Deterrent Viking continue to evolve alongside emerging threats, most recently incorporating live drone swarm operations.
U.S. Air Force Airman 1st Class Dallin Gottfredson, right, and Senior Airman Cameroon Poe, 786th CES explosive ordnance device flight team members, secure weapons from a cache for disposal, during Deterrent Viking on the Baumholder Military Training Area, May 7. Experts estimate that 10 percent of the 1.6 million bombs dropped on Germany by Allied forces during World War II never detonated, underscoring why EOD proficiency in the European theater remains as critical today as it was decades ago.
COMMUNITY EVENTS
RECURRING EVENTS
Dog Obedience Training
Kaiserslautern Outdoor Recreation
has dog obedience training starting at eight-weeks of age held Saturdays at the Kaiserslautern Outdoor Recreation Motor Pool, Bldg. 2902 on Pulaski Barracks. Classes are one hour, with time slots between 9 a.m. to noon depending on the size of the dog. Cost is $15 per dog. This fee must be paid in advance by close of business Friday either in person at Kaiserslautern Outdoor Recreation or by calling 4934117 or 0631-3406-4117. For more information, visit kaiserslautern. armymwr.com.
SKIES Gymnastics
Enrollment is now open for SKIES Unlimited gymnastics for ages 1 to 18 in the Kaiserslautern Community. Visit kaiserslautern.armymwr.com and click on the WebTrac link for class times, dates and fees by age group. Open to all ID card holders from all branches of service. For more information and to register, visit Parent Central Services, Bldg. 162 on Rhine Ordnance Barracks, or call 5419065/ 9066/ 9067 or 0611 143 541 9065/ 9066/ 9067.
SOS Survivor Support Group
The Army Community Service Survivor Outreach Services hosts a SOS Survivor Support Group second Thursday of every month from 5 to 7 p.m. in Building 3820 (next to the Thrift Shop), second floor conference room on Landstuhl Post. Registration is required and must be done by 2 p.m. the day of the meeting by calling the ACS front desk at 531-2863/2851 or 0611-143-531-2863/2851. This is an ongoing monthly support group for surviving family members of deceased active duty service members.
Latin Nights at the Rheinlander!
The last Friday of the month is Latin Night from 9 p.m. to 1 a.m., in the ballroom of the Rheinlander Community Club, Bldg. 8085 on Smith Barracks. The Salsa Band Borinkuba will perform live several Latin music favorites, such as Salsa, Merengue and Bachata. Food is available from 8 to 11 p.m. This event is for those 18 and older, who are I.D. card holders. No cover charge. For details, call the Rheinlander Community Club at 5312887 or 0611-143-531-2887.
Strong B.A.N.D.S. Campaign
The U.S. Army Garrison Rheinland-Pfalz Family and MWR Strong B.A.N.D.S. Campaign will showcase events for the Baumholder and Kaiserslautern Military Communities throughout May to June 7. STRONG B.A.N.D.S. - STRONG Balance, Activity, Nutrition, Determination and Strength - promotes healthy, active lifestyles for Army communities. It helps motivate Army Soldiers, Families, Retirees and Civilians to get and stay fit. Stayed tuned to baumholder.armymwr.com and kaiserslautern.armymwr.com to view and join family and MWR fitness and wellness opportunities.
75/250 German American Friendship Festival
U.S. Army Garrison Rheinland-Pfalz and the City of Baumholder will host a joint threeday festival July 3 to 5 to commemorate 75 years of German American partnership in Baumholder and the 250th anniversary of U.S. independence. Everyone is invited to attend. The festival will take place at the Baumholder Army Airfield and will include military static displays, amusement rides, food and beverage vendors, live entertainment and a July 4 fireworks show. Hours are Friday and Saturday from noon to midnight and Sunday from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. For ongoing updates and event details, visit baumholder.armymwr.com and kaiserslautern.armymwr.com.
Baumholder Aquatic Center’s Learn to Swim Program
Registration for the Learn to Swim Program is open now through June 3, with lessons held June 9 to 25 at the Baumholder Aquatic Center, Bldg. 8897 on Wetzel Kaserne. Classes meet Tuesday, Thursday and Friday, with levels ranging from Preschool 1–3 to Learn to Swim 1–4. The cost is $75 per person, per session, which includes eight lessons, and swim evaluations will take place on the first day. Payment and registration are completed at the Aquatic Center; more information can be found at baumholder.armymwr.com.
Music Meditation Workshop
Registration for the Music Meditation Workshop is open now through Sep. 12, with the free workshop being held the same day from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Massage and Yoga Studio, Bldg. 2899 on Pulaski Barracks. Participants should bring comfortable clothing, a mat, a water bottle, headphones or earbuds, and a way to play their preferred music. To preregister or request details, contact Bryan at dose.of.music.medicine@
gmail.com. More information can be found at kaiserslautern.armymwr.com.
Top of the Rock 3-on-3 Basketball Tournament
The Top of the Rock 3-on-3 Basketball Tournament, hosted by USAG RP Family and MWR, is open for registration now through June 12. The free tournament will be held June 27 and 28 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Hall of Champions Physical Fitness Center, Bldg. 8105, Smith Barracks. Teams may register in person at the Hall of Champions Fitness Center or by calling 5312838/2924 or 0611-143-531-2838/2924. Participation is limited to ID cardholders ages 18 and older. A mandatory coaches meeting will take place June 27 at 9 a.m. on the second floor of the Hall of Champions Physical Fitness Center. More details at baumholder.armymwr.com.
Baumholder CYS Sports Summer Camp Registration Registration for Baumholder Youth Sports Summer Camps is June 1 to July 3. Costs for camps is $30 and $50 for clinics per child. Camps include Basketball for ages 5-15; Golf for ages 8-15; Volleyball for ages 8-15; and Flag Football for ages 7 to 14. Clinics include Soccer for ages 5-15, and Archery for ages 9 to 15. No sports physicals will be required. Register online via WebTrac (webtrac.mwr.army.mil) or visit Parent Central Services, Bldg. 8876, on Wetzel Kaserne, or the office at 531-3440 or 0611143-531-3440.
2026 Summer Reading Program
The U.S. Army Garrison Rheinland-Pfalz Libraries will launch the 2026 Summer Reading Program, “Plant a Seed, Read.” Readers of all ages may register online now or in person at the Baumholder, Kleber or Landstuhl libraries. Participants can begin logging reading minutes on June 1 to earn prizes. Prize pickup begins June 9 during each library’s Summer Reading Program kickoff. The program, from June 1 to Aug. 31, is free and open to all ages. Registration link for Baumholder Library is usalibrarybaumholder.beanstack. org/reader365, and for Kleber and Landstuhl Libraries, it’s rheinland-pfalz. beanstack.com/reader365. Find out more at baumholder.armymwr.com or kaiserslautern.armymwr.com.
Yoga and Wine
Uncork & Unwind: Yoga and Wine is Thursday, June 11, July 30 and Aug. 27 from 6 to 8 p.m. at the Armstrong’s Club, Bldg. 1036 on Vogelweh Housing. The 18-and-over event offers a relaxing evening with one hour of guided yoga followed by a social hour. Admission is $18 and includes two glasses of wine or choice of beverages. Participants must bring their own yoga mats. Whether you’re a seasoned yogi or just looking to unwind after a long
day, this event offers the perfect blend of movement and mindfulness. Participants can register now and up to an hour before the event. Registration information can be found at kaiserslautern.armymwr.com. For details, call 541-9100 or 0611-143-9100.
Summer Shred Challenge
The 2026 Summer Shred Challenge runs June 19 to 26 at the Hall of Champions Physical Fitness Center and invites participants to commit to a focused week of fitness and nutrition improvement. Registration and the initial weighin will take place June 19 from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. at the Hall of Champions, with a $10 fee. The challenge offers expert fitness instruction, group classes, nutritional guidance and mindbody sessions designed to support healthy weight loss. Participants will complete a final weighin on June 26 between 7 a.m. and 7 p.m. The firstplace winner, determined by percentage of body weight lost, will receive a Fitbit watch. More information is available at baumholder.armymwr.com.
Thursday Night Comedy Show
Aidan Jones headlines the Thursday Comedy Show June 25 from 8 to 10 p.m. at the Armstrong’s Club, Bldg. 10 36 on Vogelweh Housing. Feature comedian is Dinara Kerey. Host is local comedian Erin Crouch. This is an 18+ event. Doors open at 7 p.m., tickets are $10 at the door. Payment can be made with credit and debit cards or U.S dollars. Customers can reserve seating for $7 a person when they call 541-9115 or 0611-143-5419115 from Monday through Saturday from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. Hideaway Bistro & Grill will be open until 9 p.m. For more information, visit kaiserslautern.armymwr.com.
Saturday Night Comedy Show
Aidan Jones headlines the Saturday Night Comedy Show June 27 starting at 7 p.m. at the Tavern on the Rock inside the Rheinlander Community Club, Bldg. 8085 on Smith Barracks. Feature comedian is Dinara Kerey. Host is local comedian Erin Crouch. This is an 18+ event. Doors open at 6 p.m., tickets are $10 at the door. Payment can be made with credit and debit cards or U.S dollars. Customers can reserve seating for $7 a person when they call 531-2830 or 0611-143-531-2830. For more information on the comedians, visit baumholder.armymwr.com.
Free Saturday Line Dancing Lessons
Air Conditioning Service Special Family and MWR Automotive Skills Centers on Smith Barracks in Baumholder, Landstuhl Post and Pulaski Barracks in Kaiserslautern, is offering a $10 off hookup fees for all air conditioning services and AC system checks. This special is appointment only. Patrons can call or stop by any of the Family and MWR Automotive Skills Centers to schedule an appointment. Normal fees for refrigerant still apply. Phone numbers and locations are available at baumholder.armymwr. com and kaiserslautern.armymwr.com.
Midnight Bowl-a-thon Strikers Bowling Center, Bldg. 8105 on Smith Barracks, will host Monthly Midnight Bowling on select Fridays from 10 p.m. to 2 a.m. The event is open to adults 18 and older and costs $15 per person, which includes lane use and shoe rental. Scheduled dates include May 15, June 12, July 10, Aug. 7 and Sep. 4. Find out more at baumholder.armymwr.com.
2026 USAG RP Unit Level Softball Leagues
Registration for the USAG Rheinland-Pfalz Unit Level Softball Season is now to May 15. Softball Season for Baumholder and Kaiserslautern is from May 25 to July 23 with games played at the Soldier Field on Smith Barracks in Baumholder and at the KAD Fields, near Daenner Kaserne, in Kaiserslautern. Army Active Duty, family members, and DOD civilians with ID cards, who are ages 18 and older, are eligible to participate. Sports Officials needed. If interested, contact your local sports office. For more information, visit baumholder.armymwr.com or kaiserslautern. armymwr.com.
Landstuhl Youth Center Summer Trips
Get ready for the best summer ever! The Landstuhl Youth Center is offering a summer trip series that’s all about fun, friends, and adventure. From the week of June 15 through the week of Aug. 10, they’ll lead exciting excursions twice a week. Registration opens Monday, May 18, and runs thru the summer. Participants can look forward to new places, new experiences, and even two multi-day trips, making it a summer they’ll never forget! This program is for registered youth from 6th grade to 2026 graduating seniors. To Register with the Youth Center, call 0611143-541-9140 or 541-9140, or email at RLPLYC@army.mil. Stay Updated by visiting kaiserslautern.armymwr.com for the latest announcements.
Free line dancing lessons will be offered on the second and fourth Saturdays of the month at the Armstrong’s Club, Bldg. 1036 on Vogelweh Housing. The next one is May 23. The sessions run from 8 to 9 p.m. and are open to all skill levels. Participants can practice their new moves during Country Night immediately afterward, featuring music by DJ Caddy. More information is available at kaiserslautern.armymwr.com.
Photo by Andrey_Popov/Shutterstock.com
Across Europe, memory endures: USAFE-AFAFRICA supports Memorial Day ceremonies honoring the fallen
– Air Forces Africa
Public Affairs
Across Europe, rows of white marble headstones stand as enduring reminders of sacrifice, service and the alliances forged through war.
This year, Memorial Day ceremonies at American military cemeteries overseas carry additional significance as the U.S. commemorates Freedom 250 — the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence.
Throughout the U.S. European Command area of responsibility, the milestone serves as an opportunity to reflect not only on America’s founding principles of independence, but also on the enduring partnerships with European Allies that helped shape the nation’s history and continue to strengthen collective security today.
European support during the American Revolution was instrumental in transforming the struggle for independence into a definitive victory, laying the groundwork for a long-standing alliance. Today, Memorial Day ceremonies offer a powerful testament to the strength and longevity of these international bonds in action.
From Normandy and Luxem bourg to the Netherlands and Italy, ceremonies hosted by the American Battle Monuments Commission bring together U.S. service members, Allied militaries, diplomats, veterans, local communities and families to honor the more than 200,000 Americans buried and memorialized overseas.
For U.S. Air Forces in Europe – Air Forces Africa and U.S. European Command teams, supporting these events goes far beyond ceremonial protocol. Military bands from multiple nations perform together. Host nation leaders stand alongside U.S. commanders during wreath-laying ceremonies. Local citizens continue traditions of honoring fallen Americans decades
after World War I and II ended.
This anniversary serves to underscore the historic role European nations played in the American cause, emphasizing an enduring transatlantic bond and a shared history that continues to define modern cooperation.
That connection remains visible throughout Memorial Day observances across Europe.
At ceremonies held at sites such as the Normandy American Cemetery, Luxembourg American Cemetery and Netherlands American Cemetery, Allied participation is woven into every detail.
U-A personnel support ceremonies through honor guards, troop formations, ceremonial flyovers, public affairs coverage and coordination with interagency and international partners. Teams work closely with ABMC, U.S. embassies, host nation governments and military counterparts to ensure ceremonies are executed with dignity while demonstrating Allied unity and shared commitment to freedom.
For military members and families stationed overseas, the ceremonies offer an opportunity to personally connect with the legacy of service and sacrifice that shaped both American and European history. All ceremonies are open to the public and provide Americans living abroad the chance to honor fallen service members in places where history unfolded.
Walking through the cemeteries, visitors often see more than names etched into stone. They see handwritten notes, flowers placed beside headstones and small national flags left by local families who continue traditions passed down through generations.
These moments ultimately go beyond honoring history by carrying its critical lessons forward. This milestone serves as more than just a reflection on the past; it acts as a launchpad to propel these partnerships through the next 250 years.
As Memorial Day ceremonies unfold across Europe in 2026, USAFE-AFAFRICA’s support helps ensure those stories of sacrifice, partnership and shared resolve continue to resonate with Allied audiences, military families and future generations alike.
KAISERSLAUTERN MILITARY COMMUNITY CHAPEL SCHEDULE
RAMSTEIN CHAPEL PROGRAMS
86 AW/HC, Unit 3210, APO AE 09094-3210
North Chapel (Bldg 1201) (DSN) 480-6148, (Civ) 06371-47-6148 South Chapel (Bldg 2403) (DSN) 480-5753, (Civ) 06371-47-5753 Vogelweh Chapel (Bldg 2063)
Please call Ramstein North Chapel Kapaun Chapel/Annex (Bldg 2781/2782)
Please call Ramstein North Chapel
For more information about our services, please visit us on Facebook: Facebook.com/ RamsteinChapelOfficial Or at the Ramstein Air Base website: https://www.ramstein.af.mil/About/Fact-Sheets/ Display/Article/2597677/kmc-chapels/
Buddhist (SGI)
Virtual Meetings, for more information thevoice@gmail.com
Orthodox
Divine Liturgy: Kapaun Chapel, 08:45 a.m., Sun Children’s Church School: Kapaun Annex, 10:45 a.m., Sun Adult Scripture Study: Kapaun Annex, 10:45 a.m., Sun
Great Vespers: Kapaun Chapel, 5 p.m., 4th Sat
Confessions: Available by appointment
Wiccan Facebook.com/VogelwehOpenCircleSWC Service: Kapaun Annex, 7 p.m., Sat
Unitarian Universalist Facebook.com/ KaiserslauternUnitarianUniversalistFellowship Service: Kapaun Chapel, 1:30 p.m., 2nd & 4th Sun
Catholic Holy Family Catholic Community Facebook.com/RamsteinCatholicCommunity Daily Mass: North Chapel, 11:30 a.m., Tue-Thu & 1st Fri
Confessions: North Chapel, by appointment only Sunday Masses: North Chapel, 9 a.m. & 1 p.m., Sun
Knights of Columbus (K of C)
Meeting: North Chapel, 6 p.m., 2nd/4th Tue
Catholic Women of the Chapel (CWOC) (except July & Aug)
Bible Study: North Chapel, 9 a.m., Thu
Catholic Religious Education (RE) (except June, July & Aug)
Kindergarten-7th Ramstein Intermediate School: 10:30 a.m.-12 p.m., Sun
Confirmation Class Ramstein Intermediate School: 6-7:30 p.m., Wed
Life Teen: North Chapel, 6:15 p.m., Sun
Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults (RCIA) (except July & Aug)
Meeting: South Chapel, 6 p.m., Thu
The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints
Early Morning Seminary/Scripture Study for High School aged students: Ramstein School: North Chapel, 6:30 a.m., Mon-Wed-Fri
Vogelweh School: Kapaun Chapel Annex, 6:30 a.m., Mon-Wed-Fri Church Services: Baumholder 10:30 a.m. Sunday Im Gewerbegebiet 8 , Baumholder Call 0176-18300-897 Kaiserslautern 9:30 a.m. Sunday Lauterstr 9, Kaiserslautern Call 0176-18300-834 or 875 Ramstein
9:00 a.m Sunday 11:30 a.m. Sunday
This year, Memorial Day ceremonies at American military cemeteries overseas carry additional significance as the U.S. commemorates Freedom 250 — the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence. A complete schedule of Memorial Day ceremonies at overseas American cemeteries and memorials is available through the American Battle Monuments Commission.
Messianic Service: South Chapel, 10 a.m., Sat
Protestant Contemporary North Chapel, 11 a.m., Sun Episcopal: Kapaun Chapel, 11:00 a.m., Sun Please note that the Episcopal service has merged with the Traditional service until further notice. Seventh-day Adventist Worship service: North Chapel, 11 a.m., Sat Bible Study: North Chapel, 10 a.m.,
Ludwig-Erhard Strasse 15, Ramstein Call +49 152 5543 1629
Islam Jumu’ah Khutbah: South Chapel, 1 p.m., Fri Potluck: South Chapel, 7 p.m., 1st Fri Jewish Facebook.com/KMCMILJEWISHCOMMUNITY
Shabbat: South Chapel, 6 p.m., Fri Sabbath Kiddush & Lunch: 1 p.m.; request location by COB Wed* Torah Study: 7 p.m., Sat — request location & Zoom link Hebrew School & B’nei Mitzvah Study, Sun — request location & Zoom link For more information contact North Chapel
Story & graphic by Tech. Sgt. Alexandra M. Longfellow U.S. Air Forces in Europe
Property of the week
LARGE 4 BEDROOM APARTMENT CLOSE TO RAB
2 Schlafzimmer, 1 Badezimmer, Wohnung, 70 m², Einbaukueche, Wohn-/ Essbereich, Balkon/Terrasse, Waschkueche, keine Haustiere, verfuegbar ab 1. September 2024, Wohnungsbescheinigung erforderlich, 1250 € + Nebenkosten, stephan_dis@hotmail.com
Comf. and quiet Apartment, 132sqm, brand new BIK, 2 bd, 1.5 bath, big liv/din, terrace, storage room in basement, parking space, no pets, Housing Approved, €1350 +utl, helli30@aol.com, 0172/ 9934319 (using also WhatsApp)
Kaiserslautern, 2bd, 2bth, Apartment, 110sqm, BIK, guest WC, liv/din, balcony/ terrace, finished basement, pets allowed, available 1 Maerz 2026, Housing Approved, €1200 +utl, call 00491715210535, nor bert.schopper@t-online.de
Rodenbach, 2bd, 1bth, Apartment, 88sqm, BIK, liv, balcony/terrace, finished basement, private garage, pets allowed, available 7 Jan. 2026, Housing Approved, €1450 +utl, call +49 156 78 212 399, info@ tla-rentals.comRodenbach, 2bd, 1bth, Apartment, 88sqm, BIK, liv, balcony/terrace, finished basement, private garage, pets allowed, available 7 Jan. 2026, Housing Approved, €1450 +utl, call +49 156 78 212 399, info@tla-rentals.com
Otterberg, 2bd, 1bth, Apartment, 95sqm, BIK, balcony/terrace, pets allowed, available 19 Maerz 2026, Housing Approved, €1480 +utl, call 0172 6936886, info@ prem-realestate.com
Kaiserslautern, 3bd, 2bth, Apartment, 100sqm, BIK, guest WC, din, balcony/terrace, no pets, available 26 Maerz 2024, Housing Approved, €1125 +utl, call 01795310274, mail@stuard.de
3.0bd, 1.0bth, Apartment, 120sqm, no pets, available 13 Apr. 2026, €1190 +utl, call 0179-1297526, strawisa9123@gmx.de
3.0bd, 1.0bth, Apartment, 125sqm, BIK, liv, balcony/terrace, no pets, available 1 Mai 2026, Housing Approved, €1230 +utl, call 0179-1297526, strawisa9123@gmx.de
Ramstein-Miesenbach, 3bd, 2bth, Apartment, 120sqm, liv/din, laundry, no pets, available 1 Maerz 2026, Housing Approved, €1800 +utl, call +4963719809003, im mobilien.hv@grenzstein.de
Ramstein-Miesenbach, 3bd, 2bth, Apartment, 120sqm, no pets, available 1 Maerz 2026, Housing Approved, €1800 +utl, call +4963719809003, apt@grenzstein.de
Kaiserslautern, 3bd, 2bth, Apartment, 135sqm, BIK, balcony/terrace, pets allowed, available 1 Mai 2026, Housing Approved, €2150 +utl, call 0172 6936886, info@ prem-realestate.com
4 BR apt. close to RAB, in Schwedelbach, 174sqm, 2 baths, BIK, large living room, laundry room, balcony, large yard with BBQ-site, Housing approved, pets allowed, available May 15th, €1.300 +utl, Phone Tanja: +49 152 3183 9055, schehr@ baumhardt.de
5bd, 2bth, Apartment, 155sqm, BIK, guest WC, liv/din, balcony/terrace, pets allowed, available 26 Maerz 2024, Housing Approved, €1450 +utl, call 017622201641, michael.fickert@outlook.de 3bd, 2.5bth, Apartment, 182sqm, BIK, guest WC, liv/din, balcony/terrace, laundry, unfinished basement, no pets, available 1 Maerz 2026, €1200 +utl, call 06372/ 5966, mschuhmacher@online.de
Freestanding house in Schwedelbach, 8 rooms, 2 kitchens, 2,5 bath, large balcony, storage rooms, double car park, large property with bbq area, 220sqm living space, 1900 Euro + util + deposit. Avail now.
Kaiserslautern, 5 Schlafzimmer, 2 Badezimmer, Wohnung, 250 m², Einbaukueche, Wohnzimmer, Balkon/Terrasse, Waschkueche, ausgebauter Keller, private Garage, keine Haustiere, verfuegbar ab 9. September 2020, Wohnungsbescheinigung vorhanden, 1800 € + Nebenkosten, Tel. 0171-9532307, bier.michael@web.de
Two-story Apt Downtown K-Town, close to train station, 4 bedroom, 2 bath, BIK, 178 sqm, rent 1700€, Check out www.ger man-aid.com for details or email info@ger man-aid.com
Family House in Bruecken/Pfalz, 4 bed, 2 bath, Balcony, Garden, 181 sq meters, Energy passport: Gas, Bj. 1930, 478,90 kWh/(sqma) EEK H, Bedarfsausweis. Price €179000,00. Please contact us for more informations: Kreissparkasse Kusel, phone 06381 / 911 - 0, E-Mail: immo@ksk-kusel.de
? SFH Hochspeyer: ~130 m² LA, 4 rm, 3 BR, BA + GWC (2022), terr., gar., part. bsmt, attic + ~50 m² util. Low-maint. 210 m² lot, quiet area. ? 360° tour avail. Interested? DM on WA +49 155 65594867 merl@n1-immo-bau.de
Bruchmuehlbach-Miesau, 4bd, 3bth, House, 257sqm, BIK, guest WC, liv/din, finished basement, private garage, available now, €798000, fitted kitchen available for separate purchase. Call 06321 - 499 02 0, info@bartzimmobilien.de
Family House in Einoellen, 4 bed, 2 bath, Terrace, Garden, 156 sq meters, Energy passport: Gas, Bj. 1976, 354,30 kWh/ (sqma) EEK H, Bedarfsausweis. Price €210000,00. Please contact us for more informations: Kreissparkasse Kusel, phone 06381 / 911 - 0, E-Mail: immo@ksk-kusel.de
Photo by javarman / Shutterstock.com
RAMSTEIN MODERN FAMILY HOME FOR SALE 4bd, 2bth, 230sqm, beautiful views, Kottweiler-Schwanden, ready to move in Mai 2026, Housing Approved, €494600 call +49 152 53294744, MEAD REAL ESTATE mre.kmc@icloud.com
Family House in Offenbach-Hundheim, 5 bed, 2 bath, Wintergarden, Balcony, Garden, 165 sq meters, Energy passport: Oel, Bj. 1968, 308,50 kWh/(sqma) EEK H, Bedarfsausweis. Price €139000,00. Please contact us for more informations: Kreissparkasse Kusel, phone 06381 / 911 - 0, EMail: immo@ksk-kusel.de
Family House in Zweibruecken-Oberauerbach, 3 bed, 2 bath, Garden, 143 sq meters, Energy passport: Gas, Bj. 1949, 329,50 kWh/(sqma) EEK H, Bedarfsausweis. Price €220000,00. Please contact us for more informations: Kreissparkasse Kusel, phone 06381 / 911 - 0, E-Mail: immo@ksk-kusel.de
FOR SALE: Small cozy house in Steinwenden, completely renovated, 2bd, 1bth, 128sqm, available 1 April 2026, Housing Approved, EUR 300k, call +4963719809003, apt@grenzstein.de
Single Family House in Horschbach, 7 bed, 2 bath, Garden, 232 sq meters, Energy passport: Oil, ca. Bj. 1957, 410,30 kWh/ (sqma) EEK H, Bedarfsausweis. Price €124000,00. Please contact us for more informations: Kreissparkasse Kusel, phone 06381 / 911 - 0, E-Mail: immo@ksk-kusel.de
Family House in Foeckelberg, 3 bed, 2 bath, Guest-WC, Terrace, Balcony, Garden, 175sq meters, Energy passport: Oil, Bj. 2000, 179,80 kWh/(sqma) EEK F, Bedarfsausweis. Price €329000,00. Please contact us for more informations: Kreissparkasse Kusel, phone 06381 / 911 - 0, E-Mail: im mo@ksk-kusel.de
Single Family House with local store in Wolfstein, 2 bed, 2 bath, Garden, Garage, 219 sq meters, Energy passport: Gas, Bj. 1790, 508,60 kWh/(sqma) EEK H, Bedarfsausweis. Price €199000,00. Please contact us for more informations: Kreissparkasse Kusel, phone 06381 / 911 - 0, E-Mail: im mo@ksk-kusel.de
Spacious 2-story home w/ 167 sqm on 398 sqm plot. Offers 2 bright bedrooms, 2 modern bathrooms (full and 3/ 4), large living/dining area w/ fireplace & tiled stove, separate kitchen w/ pantry. Garden. Price: 449.000 Euro +49 155 65594867 or merl@n1-immo-bau.de
Spacious Landstuhl City Apartment, 150 sqm, 3bd, 2bth, large liv/din, 3 balconies, private garage, plus parking space. Walk to restaurants, shopping and public transportation. Only 10 minutes from RAB and LRMC. Asking €315000 Email: arsenstuhl2@gmail.com
Studio Apartment in Deidesheim, 33sqm, BIK, walk out patio next to park, available immediately, €200000, call +17322093930 WhatsApp +49 176 21417043 or mmeketen@hotmail.com, no brokers please!
Well maintained, freestanding House in 66919 Herschberg for SALE, Mitchell Consulting, Kindsbacher Strasse 58, RamsteinMiesenbach, 66877 Germany, +49 (0)6371737 630, info@mitchell-investment.com.
Find all of our properties on FindItGuide.com!
5.0bd, 2.0bth, House, 0sqm, no pets, available 27 Feb. 2016, €1700 +utl, call 0179-1297526, strawisa9123@gmx.de
5.0bd, 2.0bth, House, 215sqm, BIK, guest WC, liv/din, no pets, available 28 Feb. 2026, Housing Approved, €1700 +utl, call 0179-1297526, Housing Approved strawisa9123@gmx.de
5.0bd, 2.0bth, House, 215sqm, BIK, liv/ din, laundry, no pets, available 28 Feb. 2026, Housing Approved, €1700 +utl, call 0179-1297526, strawisa9123@gmx.de
5.0bd, 2.0bth, House, 215sqm, no pets, available 13 Feb. 2026, €1700 +utl, call 0179-1297526, strawisa9123@ gmx.de5.0bd, 2.0bth, House, 215sqm, no pets, available 13 Feb. 2026, €1700 +utl, call 0179-1297526, strawisa9123@gmx.de
5bd, 2.5bth, brand new townhouse, 155sqm, built in kitchen, liv/din, yard, laundry, finished basement, private garage, pets subject to approval, AVAILABLE NOW, Housing Approved, €1750 +utl, Check out www.german-aid.com for details or email info@german-aid.com
5bd, 2bth, House, 210sqm, BIK, guest WC, liv/din, laundry, no pets, available 22 Jan. 2026, Housing Approved, €1750 +utl, call 0179-1297526, strawisa9123@gmx.de
Duplex in Oberstaufenbach, 6 bdr./2.5 bath, Mother in-law suite, yard, 200 sqm, rent €2000. Check out www.germanaid.com for details or email info@germanaid.com
Enkenbach-Alsenborn, 5.0bd, 2.0bth, House, 215sqm, BIK, guest WC, liv/din, no pets, available 27 Feb. 2026, Housing Approved, €1700 +utl, call 0179-1297526, strawisa9123@gmx.deEnkenbach-Alsen born, 5.0bd, 2.0bth, House, 215sqm, BIK, guest WC, liv/din, no pets, available 27 Feb. 2026, Housing Approved, €1700 +utl, call 0179-1297526, strawisa9123@gmx.de
Enkenbach-Alsenborn, 5bd, 1.75bth, House, 215sqm, BIK, liv/din, laundry, no pets, available 27 Feb. 2026, Housing Approved, €1700 +utl, call 0179-1297526, strawisa9123@gmx.deEnkenbach-Alsen born, 5bd, 1.75bth, House, 215sqm, BIK, liv/din, laundry, no pets, available 27 Feb. 2026, Housing Approved, €1700 +utl, call 0179-1297526, strawisa9123@gmx.de
Enkenbach-Alsenborn, 5bd, 2bth, House, 215sqm, BIK, guest WC, liv/din, laundry, no pets, available 26 Feb. 2026, Housing Approved, €1700 +utl, call 01791297526, strawisa9123@gmx.de
Enkenbach-Alsenborn, 5bd, 2bth, House, 215sqm, BIK, guest WC, liv/din, no pets, available 28 Maerz 2026, Housing Approved, €1650 +utl, call 0179-1297526, strawisa9123@gmx.deEnkenbach-Alsen born, 5bd, 2bth, House, 215sqm, BIK, guest WC, liv/din, no pets, available 28 Maerz 2026, Housing Approved, €1650 +utl, call 0179-1297526, strawisa9123@ gmx.de
Enkenbach-Alsenborn, 5bd, 2bth, House, 215sqm, BIK, liv/din, laundry, no pets, available 28 Feb. 2026, Housing Approved, €1700 +utl, call 0179-1297526, strawisa9123@gmx.de
Kaiserslautern, 6bd, 4bth, House, 400sqm, BIK, guest WC, liv/din, balcony/ terrace, laundry, finished basement, private garage, no pets, rent 3000€ Check out www.german-aid.com for details or email info@german-aid.com
Kaiserslautern, 7bd, 3bth, House, 234sqm, BIK, guest WC, liv/din, balcony/ terrace, laundry, finished basement, dogs allowed, available 7 Mai 2026, Housing Approved, €1950 +utl, rschw60@gmail.com
Kindsbach, 5.0bd, 2.0bth, House, 200sqm, BIK, guest WC, liv/din, laundry, pets allowed, available 3 Feb. 2026, Housing Approved, €2000 +utl, call 0049 1636034729, sandra-ilg@t-online.de
Konken, 5bd, 2bth, Townhouse, 165sqm, BIK, liv/din, laundry, pets allowed, available 15 Mai 2026, Housing Approved, €1600 +utl, Check out www.germanaid.com for details or email info@germanaid.com
Sembach, 5bd, 2.5bth, Townhouse, 155sqm, BIK, guest WC, liv/din, balcony/ terrace, laundry, private garage, pets allowed, available 22 Mai 2025, Housing Approved, Rent starting at €1500 +utl, call +49 173 3647569, info@german-aid.com
Spacious, Free-standing Home with Outdoor OasisLocation: Winnweiler, 160 sqm, 4 bed, 2.5 bath, fire place, outdoor pool, bbq area, sauna, mother-in-law suit, fenced-in-yard, garage, rent 3100€ Check out www.german-aid.com for details or email info@german-aid.com
4bd, 2.5bth, House, 210sqm, liv/din, balcony/terrace, laundry, pets allowed, available 1 Mai 2026, Housing Approved, €1950 +utl, call 0173 32 25 243, klaus.cossmann@ web.de
Family friendly Duplex in KL-Moelschbach: Modernity meets Serenity, 4bd, 2bth, House, 174sqm, BIK, balcony/terrace, laundry, pets allowed, available 3 Maerz 2026, Housing Approved, €1880 +utl, call 0172 6936886, info@prem-reale state.com
Free-standing home in Ramstein, 3 story, 4 bedroom, 2 bath, two-car garage, heated floors, backyard, balcony, fireplace, rent: €2500, Check out www.germanaid.com for details or email info@germanaid.com
Kaiserslautern, Ramstein, 5min to Vogelweh or to Daenner, 4.0bd, 1.5bth, House, 173sqm, BIK, guest WC, liv/din, balcony/ terrace, laundry, finished basement, pets allowed, available 15 Mai 2026, Housing Approved, €1780 +utl, email: sales2010@tonline.de
Mackenbach, nice big duplex, 257sqm, 4 bed, 2 bath, built-in-kitchen, dinning-livingroom, laundry, garage with dirct entry in house, big fenced garden, monthly rent 2400€+util. Avail now. Call Ado at +49 1726801258 or email on rmimmobilien@tonline.de
Ramstein-Miesenbach, 3bd, 2bth, House, 130sqm, BIK, liv/din, balcony/terrace, laundry, finished basement, no pets, available 15 Apr. 2026, Housing Approved, €1480 +utl, call 0173 184 1185, airono liver@web.de
3-floor family home. 3
2 bath. BIK, liv, garden. 143 sqm on 203 sqm plot. Located in Siegelbach-peaceful yet close to Kaiserslautern & Ramstein. City access in 10-20 minutes. Rent: 1800 + utl. Call: +49 155065594867 Mail: merl@n1-im mo-bau.de
1bd, 1.5bth, House, 200sqm, BIK, guest WC, liv/din, balcony/terrace, laundry, unfinished basement, pets allowed, Housing Approved, €1800 +utl, call +49 173 3647569, info@german-aid.com
Bexbach, 2 Schlafzimmer, 2 Badezimmer, Haus, 120qm, BIK, Gaeste-WC, Wohn/Esszimmer, Balkon/Terrasse, ausgebauter Keller, Haustiere erlaubt, frei ab 11.08.2025, Wohnungsbaugeprueft, 1100 € zzgl. MwSt., Tel. +49 176 61306300, chris ta-dahl61@t-online.de
Rustic
bed.
Neustadt an der Weinstrasse, 4bd, 2.5bth, House, 137sqm, BIK, guest WC, liv/ din, balcony/terrace, laundry, shared garage, pets allowed, available 2 Apr. 2026, €600000 +utl, call +4915155580000, wa@ arcor.de
1BR TLA / TDY Apartment in Ramstein [ref=S3], all included + rental car, 5min from RAB, pets allowed ; ; +4917624687550 (whatsapp) ; inquiries@ mytlahome.com
2bd, 1.5bth, Apartment, 110sqm, BIK, guest WC, liv/din, balcony/terrace, laundry, no pets, available 15 Feb. 2025, call +49 176 2468 7550 (WhatsApp), inquiries@ mytlahome.com
2bd, 1.5bth, Apartment, 135sqm, BIK, guest WC, liv, no pets, available 22 Jan. 2025, call +49 176 2468 7550 (WhatsApp), inquiries@mytlahome.com
2bd, 1bth, Apartment, 110sqm, BIK, liv/ din, balcony/terrace, no pets ; www.mytla home.com/b81c ; +49 176 2468 7550 (WhatsApp) ; inquiries@mytlahome.com
2bd, 1bth, Apartment, 80sqm, BIK, liv/ din, balcony/terrace, laundry, pets allowed, available 28 Sep. 2024, call +49 176 2468 7550 (WhatsApp), inquiries@mytlaho me.com
2bd, 2bth, Apartment, 110sqm, BIK, liv/ din, laundry, no pets, available 24 Maerz 2025, call +49 176 2468 7550 (WhatsApp), inquiries@mytlahome.com
2bedroom apartment, 2 bd, 1.5 bth, 113 sq meters, Obere Triftstrasse KIndsbach, 0173-3464394, michaelkappa@hotmail.de
3bd, 1.5bth, Apartment, 120sqm, BIK, guest WC, liv/din, balcony/terrace, laundry, finished basement, shared garage, pets allowed, available 1 Okt. 2024, klincks.tlahome@gmail.com
3bd, 1.5bth, Apartment, 90sqm, BIK, guest WC, liv/din, laundry, no pets, available 15 Feb. 2025, call +49 176 2468 7550 (WhatsApp), inquiries@mytlahome.com
3bd, 2bth, Apartment, 120sqm, BIK, liv/ din, laundry, no pets, available 24 Jan. 2025, call +49 176 2468 7550 (WhatsApp), inquiries@mytlahome.com
Best Located TLA TLF Appartment on Einsiedlerhof 1 or 2 bedrooms, 2 bd, 1.5 bth, 70 sq meters, Kaiserstrasse Kaiserslautern Germany, 59 euro or per diem rate, 01724989707, boze1@gmx.de Ask for longterm !
Apartment Stay Eden PEARL, 10 minutes from RAB, high-end, 1 bed 1 bath, incl. sauna, home gym. Text us: +49 151 701 008 14 hello@stay-eden.com
Brand new, ground floor, 3BR 1.5BA TLA Apartment, 10min from RAB [ref=M213] ; Brand new, fast internet, ground floor, patio with BBQ grill, off-street parking ; ; inqui ries@mytlahome.com ; +4917624687550 (whatsapp)
Fully furnished TLA in Ramstein-Miesenbach, !AVAILABLE NOW!140sqm, 3bd, 2bth Apartment, Car parking, Free Internet, Price varies, mail kenanz261@ gmail.com or call (+49) 017670718808 to get informations
Kaiserslautern, 3bd, 1.5bth, Apartment, 138sqm, BIK, guest WC, liv/din, balcony/ terrace, laundry, finished basement, private garage, pets allowed, available 11 Sep. 2025, Housing Approved, €1 +utl, call +49 156 78 212 399, info@tla-rentals.com
KTown City Center: TLA/TDY 1 bedroom/ 1 bathroom unit, 80sqm, BIK, balcony, laundry, private garage, no pets, available 26 Sep. 2024, Housing Approved, €1234567 +utl, call 0172 6936886, info@ prem-realestate.com
Landstuhl, 1bd, 1bth, Apartment, 76sqm, BIK, balcony/terrace, no pets, available 5 Apr. 2023, call 0172 6936886, in fo@prem-realestate.com
Mackenbach, 5bd, 3bth, House, 235sqm, BIK, guest WC, liv, garden, balcony/terrace, laundry, private garage, no pets, available 3 Dec 2020, Housing Approved, €1 +utl, call +49 176 313 73 451, nicolewan dowsky@web.de
Lovely TLA Countryhouse BremerhofKaiserslautern The Bremerhof, one of the most unique residential areas in Kaiserslautern, located in a beautiful clearing in the middle of the Palatinate Forest, but with less than a 5 minutes drive to the center of K-Town.The apartment has 2 bedrooms, a living room, 1 bathroom and a romatic garden with pool which is the perfect place for days of rest and relaxation while you settle in Germany. Call 00 49 171 313 6996 or mail: More information: www.judithkern.com info@judithkern.com
Premium and newly built TLA in Landstuhl city, TLA Rate (per diem) 2 bd, 1.5 bth, 100 sq meters, Koenigstrasse 2, 66849 Landstuhl Germany, phone: 0170 2003862, mail: info@prem-realestate.com
Ramstein-Miesenbach, 2bd, 1.5bth, Apartment, 110sqm, BIK, guest WC, liv/ din, balcony/terrace, laundry, pets allowed, available 24 Sep. 2024, call +49 176 2468 7550 (WhatsApp), inquiries@mytlaho me.com
Ramstein-Miesenbach, 3bd, 2.5bth, Townhouse, 130sqm, BIK, guest WC, din, balcony/terrace, laundry, no pets, available 6 Jan. 2023, call +49 176 2468 7550 (WhatsApp), inquiries@mytlahome.com
Ramstein-Miesenbach, 5bd, 2bth, House, 150sqm, BIK, guest WC, liv/din, balcony/terrace, laundry, private garage, dogs allowed, available 7 Sep. 2021, Housing Approved, klincks.tlahome@ gmail.com
Rodenbach, 2bd, 1bth, Apartment, 85sqm, BIK, liv, balcony/terrace, private garage, pets allowed, available 16 Juni 2024, Housing Approved, €1 +utl, call +49 156 78 212 399, info@tla-rentals.com
Stay Eden AMBER, 11 minutes from RAB, high-end, 2 bed 1.5 bath, incl. sauna, home gym. Text us: +49 151 701 008 14 hel lo@stay-eden.com
Stay Eden CORAL, 10 minutes from RAB, high-end, 2 bed 1.5 bath, incl. sauna, home gym. Text us: +49 151 701 008 14 hel lo@stay-eden.com
Stay Eden EMERALD, 10 minutes from RAB, high-end, 2 bed 1.5 bath, incl. sauna, home gym. Text us: +49 151 701 008 14 hello@stay-eden.com
Stay Eden JADE, 10 minutes from RAB, high-end, 2 bed 1 bath, incl. sauna, home gym. Text us: +49 151 701 008 14 hello@ stay-eden.com
Stay Eden JASPER, 7 minutes from RAB, high-end, 2 bed 1 bath, incl. sauna, home gym. Text us: +49 151 701 008 14 hello@ stay-eden.com
Stay Eden MOONSTONE GREEN, 14 minutes from RAB, high-end, 2 bed 1.5 bath, incl. sauna, AC. Text us: +49 151 701 008 14 hello@stay-eden.com
Stay Eden MOONSTONE, 14 minutes from RAB, high-end, 2 bed 1 bath, incl. sauna, AC. Text us: +49 151 701 008 14 hel lo@stay-eden.com
Stay Eden ONYX, 11 minutes from RAB, high-end, 1 bed 1 bath, incl. sauna, home gym. Text us: +49 151 701 008 14 hello@ stay-eden.com
Stay Eden OPAL BLUE, 11 minutes from RAB, high-end, 2 bed 2 bath, incl. sauna, AC. Text us: +49 151 701 008 14 hello@ stay-eden.com
Stay Eden OPAL GREEN, 11 minutes from RAB, high-end, 1 bed 1 bath, incl. sauna, home gym. Text us: +49 151 701 008 14 hello@stay-eden.com
Stay Eden RUBY, 7 minutes from RAB, high-end, 2 bed 1 bath, incl. sauna, home gym. Text us: +49 151 701 008 14 hello@ stay-eden.com
Stay Eden SAPPHIRE BLUE, 7 minutes from RAB, high-end, 2 bed 1 bath, incl. sauna, home gym. Text us: +49 151 701 008 14 hello@stay-eden.com
Stay Eden SUNSTONE, 10 minutes from RAB, high-end, 1 bed 1 bath, incl. sauna, home gym. Text us: +49 151 701 008 14 hello@stay-eden.com
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Stay Eden SAPPHIRE GREEN, 7 minutes from RAB, high-end, 1 bed 1 bath, incl. sauna, home gym. Text us: +49 151 701 008 14 hello@stay-eden.com
Stay Eden SAPPHIRE
008 14 hello@stay-eden.com
Steinwenden, 2bd, 1.5bth, Apartment, 110sqm, BIK, guest WC, liv/din, balcony/ terrace, laundry, pets allowed, available 8 Maerz 2024, call +49 176 2468 7550 (WhatsApp), inquiries@mytlahome.com
TLA / TDY 5BR 3BA house, 15min from RAB (West Gate) [ref: LM8] ; brand new. walk-in closet, workspace, patio with BBQ grill, pet friendly, off-street parking lots, fenced in yard ; www.mytlahome.com/ lm8 ; inquiries@mytlahome.com ; +4917624687550 (Whatsapp, Signal)
TLA /TDY Weilerbach, 4bd, 4bth, House, 227sqm, BIK, guest WC, liv/din, balcony/ terrace, laundry, finished basement, private garage, pets allowed, available 9 Maerz 2024, Housing Approved, call +49 156 78 212 399, info@tla-rentals.com
available on an
AU TO S
2010 Subaru Impreza 2.5L Premium AWD, US, Year: 2010 Make: Subaru Model: Impreza Sedan 4dr Auto 2.5i Premium Special Edition Engine: 4 Cylinder Engine Transmission: 4-Speed A/T Exterior: Newport Blue Pearl Interior: Ivory *PACKAGE Special Edition pkg -..., €6,995. Bavarian Motor Cars - BMW - Wuerzburg - BMW & Mini Car Dealer, Louis-Pasteur-Strasse 14, Wuerzburg, 97076 Germany, +49 (0) 931 870981021, marketing@bavarianmotor cars.com. Find all of our cars on FindItGuide.com!
2013 Jeep Grand Cherokee Overland 4WD, US, Air Conditioning, All Wheel Drive, Alloy Wheels, Automatic, Keyless Entry, Navigation, Park Distance Control, Power Locks, Power Windows, €15,995. Bavarian Motor Cars - BMW - Vilseck, Gut 3, Vilseck, 92249 Germany, +49 (0) 9641 60503292, admin-graf@bavarianmotor cars.com. Find all of our cars on FindItGuide.com!
2014 Jeep Wrangler Unlimited Sahara, US, Year: 2014 Make: Jeep Model: Wrangler Unlimited 4WD 4dr Sahara Engine: V6 Cylinder Engine Transmission: 5-SPEED AUTOMATIC (W5A580) -inc: Tip Start, Hill Descent Control Exterior: Granite Crystal Interior: Black *SAF..., €19,995. Bavarian Motor Cars - BMW - Vilseck, Gut 3, Vilseck, 92249 Germany, +49 (0) 9641 60503292, admin-graf@bavarianmotorcars.com. Find all of our cars on FindItGuide.com!
2015 Land Rover Evoque Pure Plus Sport, US, Air Bag, Air Conditioning, All Season Tires, Automatic, Heated Seats, Multifunction for Steering Wheel, Power Locks, Power Mirrors, Power Seats, €14,995. Bavarian Motor Cars - BMW - Wuerzburg - BMW & Mini Car Dealer, Louis-Pasteur-Strasse 14, Wuerzburg, 97076 Germany, +49 (0) 931 870981021, marketing@bavarianmo torcars.com. Find all of our cars on FindItGuide.com!
2016 Toyota Prius 5dr HB Two Eco (Natl), Front, Automatic, $22,674 (650016). MAS Military AutoSource - Kaiserslautern, 34 Kaiserstrasse, Kaiserslautern, 67661 Germany, +49 (0)631-56000921, jland@milita rycars.com. Find all of our cars on FindItGuide.com!
2017 Mazda 6 Touring Sedan, US, Year: 2017 Make: Mazda Model: Mazda6 Touring Auto Engine: 4 Cylinder Engine Transmission: 6-Speed A/T Exterior: Sonic Silver Metallic Interior: Black *SAFETY Back-Up Camera Outboard Front Lap And Shoulder Safet..., €14,995. Bavarian Motor CarsBMW - Vilseck, Gut 3, Vilseck, 92249 Germany, +49 (0) 9641 60503292, admingraf@bavarianmotorcars.com. Find all of our cars on FindItGuide.com!
2017 VW Jetta 1.8T SEL, US, Year: 2017 Make: Volkswagen Model: Jetta SEL Engine: 1.8L in-line 4 and variable valve timing Transmission: automatic with manual mode and floor shifter Exterior: Cardinal Red Metallic Interior: Black *SAFETY Back-Up C..., €14,995. Bavarian Motor Cars - BMWVilseck, Gut 3, Vilseck, 92249 Germany, +49 (0) 9641 60503292, admin-graf@bava rianmotorcars.com. Find all of our cars on FindItGuide.com!
2017 Toyota Corolla, US, €17,995. Bavarian Motor Cars - BMW - Vilseck, Gut 3, Vilseck, 92249 Germany, +49 (0) 9641 60503292, admin-graf@bavarianmotor cars.com. Find all of our cars on FindItGuide.com!
2018 Audi A6 Avant 45 TDI quattro, Avant sport (Up To 47 MPG), EU, AWD/ 4WD, $29,497 (DE9555). The Used Car Guys - Stuttgart, 6 Robert-Bosch-Strasse, Schoenaich, 71101 Germany, +49 (0)1727 129 046, stuttgart@usedcarguys.net. Find all of our cars on FindItGuide.com!
2018 BMW 118 Diesel Manual, EU, $12,999 (AN1002). The Used Car GuysStuttgart, 6 Robert-Bosch-Strasse, Schoenaich, 71101 Germany, +49 (0)1727 129 046, stuttgart@usedcarguys.net. Find all of our cars on FindItGuide.com!
2018 Ford Escape SEL, SUV, AWD/4WD, 6Speed Shiftable Automatic, $14,999 (DE9917). The Used Car Guys - Spangdahlem, 45 Hillstrasse, Spangdahlem, 54529 Germany, +49 (0) 6565 957 315, mitch@ usedcarguys.net. Find all of our cars on FindItGuide.com!
2018 Ford Mustang Convertible 2D EcoBoost Premium 2.3L I4 Tu, US, €20,995. Bavarian Motor Cars - BMW - Vilseck, Gut 3, Vilseck, 92249 Germany, +49 (0) 9641 60503292, admin-graf@bavarianmotor cars.com. Find all of our cars on FindItGuide.com!
2018 GMC Acadia Denali, US, Year: 2018 Make: GMC Model: Acadia AWD 4dr Denali Engine: V6 Cylinder Engine Transmission: 6-SPEED AUTOMATIC Exterior: White Frost Tricoat Interior: Cocoa/ Shale *PACKAGE *Driver Alert Package II includes Lane ..., €26,495. Bavarian Motor CarsBMW - Vilseck, Gut 3, Vilseck, 92249 Germany, +49 (0) 9641 60503292, admingraf@bavarianmotorcars.com. Find all of our cars on FindItGuide.com!
2018 Honda Pilot EX-L AWD, Rear, Automatic, $22,324 (805066). MAS Military AutoSource - Kaiserslautern, 34 Kaiserstrasse, Kaiserslautern, 67661 Germany, +49 (0)631-56000921, jland@militarycars.com. Find all of our cars on FindItGuide.com!
2018 Honda Ridgeline RTL-T, Pickup, AWD/4WD, 6-Speed Shiftable Automatic, $27,497 (DE9062). The Used Car Guys - Kaiserslautern, Weilerbacher Strasse 110, Kaiserslautern, 67661 Germany, +49 (0) 63168031210, kaiserslautern@usedcar guys.net. Find all of our cars on FindItGuide.com!
2018 Jeep Grand Cherokee Limited, SUV, Rear, 8-Speed Shiftable Automatic, $19,499 (DE9830). The Used Car GuysStuttgart, 6 Robert-Bosch-Strasse, Schoenaich, 71101 Germany, +49 (0)1727 129 046, stuttgart@usedcarguys.net. Find all of our cars on FindItGuide.com!
2019 Audi A3 2.0 TDI, Sportback 35 (Up To 65 MPG), EU, $20,999 (DE9788). The Used Car Guys - Stuttgart, 6 Robert-BoschStrasse, Schoenaich, 71101 Germany, +49 (0)1727 129 046, stuttgart@usedcar guys.net. Find all of our cars on FindItGuide.com!
2018 Jeep Compass Sport 4x4 (Up To 31 MPG), SUV, Rear, 6-Speed Manual, $17,497 (DE9497). The Used Car Guys - Spangdahlem, 45 Hillstrasse, Spangdahlem, 54529 Germany, +49 (0) 6565 957 315, mitch@ usedcarguys.net. Find all of our cars on FindItGuide.com!
2018 Jeep Wrangler Sahara Unlimited, US, *JEEP WRANGLER UNLIMITED SAHARA Exterior Color: Granite Crystal Metallic Clear Coat Exterior Paint Interior Color: Black Interior Color Interior: Leather-Trimmed Seats with Sahara Logo Engine: 3.6L V6 24V VVT Engine w/ ESS Tran..., €31,995. Bavarian Motor Cars - BMW - WuerzburgBMW & Mini Car Dealer, Louis-PasteurStrasse 14, Wuerzburg, 97076 Germany, +49 (0) 931 870981021, marketing@bava rianmotorcars.com. Find all of our cars on FindItGuide.com!
2018 Subaru Legacy Sedan 4D i Limited AWD 2.5L H4, US, Year: 2018 Make: Subaru Model: Legacy 2.5i Limited Engine: 4 Cylinder Engine Transmission: CVT Transmission Exterior: Crystal Black Silica Interior: Warm Ivory *SAFETY Back-Up Camera Outboard Front Lap And Shou..., €20,995. Bavarian Motor Cars - BMW - Vilseck, Gut 3, Vilseck, 92249 Germany, +49 (0) 9641 60503292, admin-graf@bavarianmotor cars.com. Find all of our cars on FindItGuide.com!
2019 Audi A3 Premium (Up To 63 MPG) Up To 63 MPG, EU, $21,997 (DE9358). The Used Car Guys - Stuttgart, 6 Robert-BoschStrasse, Schoenaich, 71101 Germany, +49 (0)1727 129 046, stuttgart@usedcar guys.net. Find all of our cars on FindItGuide.com!
2019 Audi A4 TDI Prestige 40 Avant, EU, $22,999 (DEN9462). The Used Car GuysKaiserslautern, Weilerbacher Strasse 110, Kaiserslautern, 67661 Germany, +49 (0) 631-68031210, kaiserslautern@usedcar guys.net. Find all of our cars on FindItGuide.com!
2019 Audi A6 Avant 45 TFSI - Apple CarPlay - Heated Seats, EU, $24,995 (DE9448). The Used Car Guys - Spangdahlem, 45 Hillstrasse, Spangdahlem, 54529 Germany, +49 (0) 6565 957 315, mitch@usedcar guys.net. Find all of our cars on FindItGuide.com!
2019 Audi Q2 1.5 TFSI, EU, $22,999 (DEN9625). The Used Car Guys - Kaiserslautern, Weilerbacher Strasse 110, Kaiserslautern, 67661 Germany, +49 (0) 63168031210, kaiserslautern@usedcar guys.net. Find all of our cars on FindItGuide.com!
2019 Volkswagen Tiguan I.Q Drive TDI, EU, $21,799 (DEN9610). The Used Car Guys - Kaiserslautern, Weilerbacher Strasse 110, Kaiserslautern, 67661 Germany, +49 (0) 631-68031210, kaiserslautern@ usedcarguys.net. Find all of our cars on FindItGuide.com!
2019 Dodge Durango GT AWD, US, Year:
2019 Make: Dodge Model: Durango GT AWD Engine: V6 Cylinder Engine Transmission: 8-SPEED AUTOMATIC Exterior: DB Black Clearcoat Interior: Black *INSTALLED OPTIONS *Black- Leather Trimmed Bucket Seats 2 Seat ..., €27,995. Bavarian Motor Cars - BMW - Wuerzburg - BMW & Mini Car Dealer, Louis-Pasteur-Strasse 14, Wuerzburg, 97076 Germany, +49 (0) 931 870981021, marketing@bavarianmotor cars.com. Find all of our cars on FindItGuide.com!
2019 Toyota Camry SE, Sedan / Saloon, Front, 8-Speed Automatic w/Sequential Shift Mode, $18,499 (DE9621). The Used Car Guys - Kaiserslautern, Weilerbacher Strasse 110, Kaiserslautern, 67661 Germany, +49 (0) 631-68031210, kaiserslautern@ usedcarguys.net. Find all of our cars on FindItGuide.com!
Photo by Dimitris Leonidas / Shutterstock.com
AU TO S
2019 Volkswagen Touran Comfortline, EU, transmission 7-speed - dual-clutch, $20,497 (DEN9398). The Used Car GuysKaiserslautern, Weilerbacher Strasse 110, Kaiserslautern, 67661 Germany, +49 (0) 631-68031210, kaiserslautern@usedcar guys.net. Find all of our cars on FindItGuide.com!
2020 Audi A3 Sportback 35i (Up to 40 MPG), EU, $24,997 (DEN9651). The Used Car Guys - Kaiserslautern, Weilerbacher Strasse 110, Kaiserslautern, 67661 Germany, +49 (0) 631-68031210, kaiserslautern@ usedcarguys.net. Find all of our cars on FindItGuide.com!
2020 BMW X3, EU, $28,999 (DE9765). The Used Car Guys - Stuttgart, 6 Robert-BoschStrasse, Schoenaich, 71101 Germany, +49 (0)1727 129 046, stuttgart@usedcar guys.net. Find all of our cars on FindItGuide.com!
2020 Dodge Durango R/T 5.7 HEMI 7 seats, SUV, Rear, 8-Speed Shiftable Automatic, $29,999 (DE9881). The Used Car Guys - Spangdahlem, 45 Hillstrasse, Spangdahlem, 54529 Germany, +49 (0) 6565 957 315, mitch@usedcarguys.net. Find all of our cars on FindItGuide.com!
2020 Ford Mustang EcoBoost Premium, Coupe, Rear, 6-Speed Manual, $28,999 (DE9725). The Used Car Guys - Stuttgart, 6 Robert-Bosch-Strasse, Schoenaich, 71101 Germany, +49 (0)1727 129 046, stuttgart@ usedcarguys.net. Find all of our cars on FindItGuide.com!
2020 Honda CR-V Hybrid Touring AWD, Rear, Automatic, $32,600 (004590). MAS Military AutoSource - Kaiserslautern, 34 Kaiserstrasse, Kaiserslautern, 67661 Germany, +49 (0)631-56000921, jland@milita rycars.com. Find all of our cars on FindItGuide.com!
2020 Mercedes Benz CLA, EU, $24,999 (DE9761). The Used Car Guys - Stuttgart, 6 Robert-Bosch-Strasse, Schoenaich, 71101 Germany, +49 (0)1727 129 046, stuttgart@ usedcarguys.net. Find all of our cars on FindItGuide.com!
2020 Mercedes-Benz A 180 AMG Line, 7speed - dual-clutch transmission DCT, $24,995 (DEN9319). The Used Car GuysKaiserslautern, Weilerbacher Strasse 110, Kaiserslautern, 67661 Germany, +49 (0) 631-68031210, kaiserslautern@usedcar guys.net. Find all of our cars on FindItGuide.com!
2020 Mini Cooper Cabrio (Up To 30 MPG), EU, $20,799 (DE9749). The Used Car Guys - Spangdahlem, 45 Hillstrasse, Spangdahlem, 54529 Germany, +49 (0) 6565 957 315, mitch@usedcarguys.net. Find all of our cars on FindItGuide.com!
2020 Volkswagen Touran Highline (Up To 50 MPG), EU, $23,999 (DE9892). The Used Car Guys - Stuttgart, 6 Robert-BoschStrasse, Schoenaich, 71101 Germany, +49 (0)1727 129 046, stuttgart@usedcar guys.net. Find all of our cars on FindItGuide.com!
2021 Honda CR-V EX-L 2WD, Front, Automatic, $32,100 (104557). MAS Military AutoSource - Kaiserslautern, 34 Kaiserstrasse, Kaiserslautern, 67661 Germany, +49 (0)631-56000921, jland@militarycars.com. Find all of our cars on FindItGuide.com!
2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee Limited 4WD, US, *JEEP GRAND CHEROKEE LIMITED 4X4
Exterior Color: Velvet Red Pearl-Coat Exterior Paint Interior Color: Black Interior Color Interior: Leather-Trimmed Bucket Seats Engine: 3.6L V6 24V VVT Engine Upg I w/ ESS Transmission: 8-Speed ..., €30,995. Bavarian Motor Cars - BMW - Vilseck, Gut 3, Vilseck, 92249 Germany, +49 (0) 9641 60503292, admin-graf@bavarianmotor cars.com. Find all of our cars on FindItGuide.com!
2021 Volkswagen Golf, EU, $22,997 (DE9536). The Used Car Guys - Stuttgart, 6 Robert-Bosch-Strasse, Schoenaich, 71101 Germany, +49 (0)1727 129 046, stuttgart@ usedcarguys.net. Find all of our cars on FindItGuide.com!
2022 BMW 228i xDrive Gran Coupe M, US, €29,995. Bavarian Motor Cars - BMWVilseck, Gut 3, Vilseck, 92249 Germany, +49 (0) 9641 60503292, admin-graf@bava rianmotorcars.com. Find all of our cars on FindItGuide.com!
2022 BMW 330i xDrive Sedan, US, *BMW 330i xDrive Sedan Black Saphire CO2 package Remote engine start 19" LA wheel double sp.793I AS em.op. Steering wheel heater Sports leather steering wheel Tire with run-flat functionality Sport automat..., €33,995. Bavarian Motor Cars - BMW - Vilseck, Gut 3, Vilseck, 92249 Germany, +49 (0) 9641 60503292, admingraf@bavarianmotorcars.com. Find all of our cars on FindItGuide.com!
2022 Audi Q3 quattro Premium Plus 40 TFSI, SUV, AWD/4WD, 8-Speed Shiftable Automatic, $27,999 (DE9906). The Used Car Guys - Spangdahlem, 45 Hillstrasse, Spangdahlem, 54529 Germany, +49 (0) 6565 957 315, mitch@usedcarguys.net. Find all of our cars on FindItGuide.com!
2022 BMW 430i Gran Coupe, US, €38,995. Bavarian Motor Cars - BMW - Vilseck, Gut 3, Vilseck, 92249 Germany, +49 (0) 9641 60503292, admin-graf@bavarianmotor cars.com. Find all of our cars on FindItGuide.com!
2022 Chrysler Pacifica Touring L, US, *CHRYSLER PACIFICA TOURING L Exterior Color: Fathom Blue Pearl-Coat Interior Color: Black / Alloy / Black Interior Colors Interior: McKinley Leather Perforated Bucket Seats Engine: 3.6L V6 24V VVT Engine with Stop/Start Transm..., €35,995. Bavarian
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86th AMXS navigates temperament of maintenance
Story & photos by Airman Paden Henry 86th Airlift Wing Public Affairs
The wind blows through the flightline carrying smells of fuel, rain and hot metal across rows of aircraft waiting for another day in the air. Beneath these wings, maintainers work with purpose, their hands are steady in the cold, moving with practiced precision as they inspect, repair and return these aircraft back to the fight.
Most people see the C-130J Hercules aircraft as a machine. The Airmen of the 86th Aircraft Maintenance Squadron see more of its internal complexity.
“Every airplane has its own personality,” said Tech Sgt. Brett Blodgett, 86th AMXS C-130J expeditor. “Certain planes consistently break for the same issues, some break for random reasons. You’ve got to learn to treat them right and to sweet talk the aircraft.”
That comment drew laughs from his Airmen around him, but underneath that humor sits a reality that maintainers know all too well.
Maintainers speak about the aircraft the same way mechanics speak about trucks or old sailors speak about ships. Some aircraft are dependable, some are stubborn and some demand more grace than others.
“The engine demands patience, you can tell if a real person cares about the details,” said Airman 1st Class Ramy Farahat, 86th AMXS aerospace maintenance journeyman. “There’s a lot of tight corners and spaces you have to get into, it can be hard to see what you’re doing. The last thing you want to do is lose something in the engine.”
Those details can mean the difference between a routine repair and a grounded aircraft. On the newer airframes, such as the C-130J, maintainers rely heavily on diagnostics and computer data to identify potential issues before they become larger complications.
“The J-model is a very sophisticated airframe,” Blodgett said. “There’s a lot of trend
data we can keep an eye on, so we know which engines are getting older or looking at needing more maintenance.”
Even with advanced systems in the modern age, both maintainers agree experience still matters. Troubleshooting cannot be fully learned from technical training alone.
“The majority of the aircraft I learned better by physically doing,” Blodgett said. “Anyone can read a book and understand the theoretical side of an airplane, but actually seeing how all the components work together and affect each other is something that needs to be shown rather than read.”
The work can quickly shift from routine to urgent. Bird strikes, electrical faults and mechanical failures can appear without warning. The first sign of a problem is not always visible.
“You might hear something off,” Farahat
said. “Like flaps chattering or a gearbox not going down smoothly, then you know something’s probably broken.”
Other times, the signs arrive through smell.
“If a bird strikes through and goes into the engine, you’ll smell burnt chicken through the AC system,” Blodgett said.
Moments like that are a part of the unpredictability crews learn to adapt and help shape their resilience.
“You have to be able to laugh,” Farahat said. “If you can’t laugh at the small things that happen, you’re going to have a rough time.”
That state of mind often turns into a deeper connection within the career field itself. For Blodgett, maintaining the aircraft eventually became increasingly personal. He was assigned a single aircraft he spent countless hours with as a dedicated crew chief earlier in his career.
“That was my baby,” he said. “I took pride in making my plane the sharpest, cleanest and nicest plane.”
On the surface, aircraft maintenance is about the engines, wiring and wrench turning. Beneath that though, maintainers are describing something familiar; aircraft develop patterns alongside quirks and learning how to recognize them is a part of the job.
“Both have a lot of problems,” Farahat laughed. “But, both respond better when somebody actually takes the time to understand them.”
As another aircraft taxis across the flight line, the maintainers step back from the noise and watch it disappear into the gray morning sky. Within hours though, it will return for another inspection, another repair and another long night for the Airmen shrouded beneath its wings.
U.S. Air Force Airman 1st Class Andrew Lowe, left, 86th and Airman 1st Class Alejandro Calderon, 86th Aircraft Maintenance Squadron maintainers, complete engine repairs on a C-130J Hercules at Ramstein Air Base, May 14. The 86th AMXS maintainers repaired engine-related electrical components and verified system functionality through diagnostic testing. These routine testing and inspections ensure safety of personnel while conducting flying operations.
U.S. Air Force Airmen 1st Class Andrew Lowe, left, and Airman 1st Class Ramy Farahat, 86th Aircraft Maintenance Squadron maintainers, perform engine repairs on a C-130J Hercules at Ramstein Air Base, May 14. Maintainers complete routine repairs and inspect aircraft parts to ensure mission readiness in support of flying operations.
U.S. Air Force Airman 1st Class Ramy Farahat, 86th Aircraft Maintenance Squadron aerospace maintenance journeyman, grabs a wrench during routine C-130J Hercules engine repairs at Ramstein Air Base, May 14. Crews performed scheduled engine overhauls and maintenance inspections to support operational and safety requirements.
Beyond healing: The human connection of LRMC’s global health engagements
by Bernhard Lashleyleidner Landstuhl Regional Medical Center
Hospitals are often viewed primarily as places to treat the sick and injured. At Landstuhl Regional Medical Center, the largest American hospital outside the United States, that mission remains central – but another critical effort extends far beyond its walls: the Global Health Engagement program.
Col. Claude Burnett, director of LRMC’s Global Engagement Team, said the program is about more than medicine.
“It’s about building bridges, fostering trust, and strengthening alliances through the universal language of healing and partnership,” Burnett said. “These efforts strengthen both medical readiness and health diplomacy, while contributing to global health security by building partner-nation capacity.”
Through the program, U.S. medical personnel work alongside counterparts across Europe and Africa in collaborative exchanges designed to share knowledge and skills in both directions.
“These are not one-way teaching missions,” said Burnett. “They are partnerships.”
In Ghana, for example, LRMC teams engage directly with doctors, nurses, and combat medics, exchanging expertise on trauma care and the challenges of operating in resource-constrained environments.
The scope of the program is broad, ranging from medical readiness exercises focused on trauma care in Ghana to engagements in Algeria addressing medical crisis manage-
ment and healthcare system administration.
Burnett said one of the program’s most effective efforts has been its sustained MEDREX partnership in Ghana, which is aligned with both Ghanaian military medical priorities and U.S. combatant command objectives.
“From a strategic perspective, this type of engagement deepens institutional relationships and supports long-term partnerships,” Burnett said. “At the same time, it provides meaningful readiness value for LRMC personnel.”
He noted that the missions also present challenges, including complex logistics and need to navigate cultural and system-level differences across multiple organizations and environments.
“Engagements often require synchronizing personnel, equipment, travel, and timelines across different commands, sometimes in resource-constrained or geographically dispersed locations,” Burnett said.
LRMC prepares its teams for both the clinical and diplomatic aspects of these missions, ensuring they can operate effectively as medical professionals and trusted partners.
Success is no longer measured simply by the number of engagements or patient encounters, Burnett said. Instead, the focus is on aligning each mission with specific security cooperation objectives and partner-nation priorities to ensure long-term sustainability.
Master Sgt. Tatiana Mason, deputy commander for clinical services, said the program emphasizes lasting impact.
“While there are elements of familiar-
ization, these engagements go beyond basic exposure,” said Mason. “The Ghana MEDREX is designed to be a collaborative training and knowledge exchange platform.”
She said it is a two-way partnership where both military and civilian participants contribute expertise, learn from one another, and enhance collective capability.
“Participants share lessons learned through a combination of formal and informal mechanisms,” said Mason. “Structured
after-action reviews, case discussions, and hands-on scenario-based training allow individuals to translate combat trauma and complex emergency experiences into actionable knowledge.”
Mason said the experience not only enhances clinical proficiency, but also reinforces adaptability, cultural awareness, and teamwork; skills that are essential for success in both humanitarian missions and large-scale combat operations.
Cpt. Kyle Smith, Sergeant First Class Jacob Ogle and Master Sgt. Tatiana Mason combat medics, Landstuhl Regional Medical Center, enjoying a Ghana cultural day excursion around the countryside during the medical readiness exercises in Ghana. Through GHE the program, U.S. medical personnel work alongside counterparts across Europe and Africa in collaborative exchanges designed to share knowledge and skills in both directions.
Sergeant First Class Jacob Ogle, combat medic, Landstuhl Regional Medical Center, proving basic lives saving training to Emergency Trauma Department Soldiers during the medical readiness exercises in Ghana.
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TRAVELING from Page 1
historic site, etc., and noticed that all eyes were on you. The proverbial music may have even come to a screeching halt (at least in your mind) as onlookers quickly sized you up and recognized that you are not a local. For those of you who want to blend in a bit better (it’s just good operational security, or “OPSEC”) as you make your way through your host country, here are a few tips, from one American to another.
1) Use your ‘inside’ voice.
Believe it or not, the United States is one of the noisiest countries in the world and Germans can often hear our countrymen coming from a mile away. Let’s face it: we talk loudly, laugh loudly, sing loudly, and even sneeze loudly…aah CHOO! We make a lot of noise in restaurants and throw loud parties at home. Somehow, we also drive loudly, showing off our huge SUVs, powerful muscle car engines, and great sound systems in the tiniest and quietest of villages. In doing so, we don’t casually mention that we’re Americans living abroad, we SHOUT IT FROM THE ROOFTOPS!
Being aware of the noise level around you can help you recognize when it’s okay to let loose (at a bar or soccer game) and when to tone it down a touch (at a restaurant or while shopping). This not only keeps you from being easily identified as a tourist, but also helps show your respect for your host country.
2) Dress to impress.
Clothing choices are often a huge part of blending in. Have you worn shorts and flipflops in December? What about to dinner at a nice restaurant? There’s no mistaking it, you’re not from around here!
Try leaving the summer clothes at home unless it’s actually summer and it’s actually hot. While we’re at it, ditch the workout attire, too, unless you are, again, actually working out. Instead, try putting on a more fitted pair of jeans, a scarf, and a pair of Chuck Taylors (aka Converse sneakers) to blend a bit better.
Fellas – if you’re going to dinner, consider wearing a collared shirt and maybe even a sports jacket. For starters, the ladies will love it. Additionally, dressing for the weather and the occasion goes a long way when it comes to blending in.
3) Talk the talk.
So, you’ve passed the noise and fashion tests. Yet, you’re still not blending very well. It’s probably because the waiter just greeted you with “Guten Morgen/Tag/Abend,” and you just stared and said, “Huh?” rather than returning a basic “Good morning/day/evening” greeting.
Chances are, you won’t master the German language with its die, der, and das complications during your 2 or 3-year tour. Still, you can buy yourself a few more moments of fitting in while simultaneously showing respect for your host country, its language, and its people, by learning a few polite expressions. Start with please, thank you, excuse me, yes, and no. Shortly thereafter, learn to count in
German and ask basic questions such as, “’How are you?” and “Where is the [fill in the blank]?’”
Later on, add something like, “Mein Deutsch ist nicht so gut. Sprechen Sie English? (My German is not so good. Do you speak English?)” This simple confession and question will get you a lot farther than jumping right into English here in Germany. People will appreciate the honesty and the effort, and will likely enjoy practicing their English with you. As it is mandatory to learn it in school, especially younger people will have no difficulties understanding you.
4) Follow the rules.
Germans are very punctual. If they say 2:00, they mean 2:00, not 2:10 or 2:15. Accept it for what it is and plan accordingly. Similarly, a rule is a rule in Germany. It’s typically not a suggestion or a guideline, but a rule.
As Americans, we don’t like it when people bend the rules, but we love to have rules bent for us – in our favor. Well, that’s not so likely to happen here in Germany. More often than not, a rule is a rule here. Period. That includes the speed limits (when posted, remember highways often do not have any), housing guidelines and trash regulations. If the garbage collector spots something in your trash can that does not belong there, he can decide not to empty it at all. Same goes for cans that are so full, you can’t close the lid properly: they are not obligated to collect any of it, if you do not stick to the limit you paid for.
5) Friendliness in different forms. In short, Americans smile at strangers a
lot more than Germans do. We smile when we pass people on the sidewalk, when we enter stores, and at neighbors we don’t know very well. You won’t find that here in Germany. Germans are very friendly and very kind, but regularly smiling at strangers is definitely an American custom, not a German one. However, a smile goes a long way and you can never smile enough. It might just make someone’s day.
As you show more effort to blend in, be assured that you’ll see a lot more smiles from your neighbors and the like. Similarly, Americans tend to apologize and say “excuse me” far more than our German counterparts. If you’re in a German grocery store, and someone passes between the cereal shelf and you without saying excuse me just as you’re reaching for that box of Corn Flakes, IT’S OKAY! It’s the norm, and you shouldn’t take it personally. You have not been disrespected or harmed in any way. You have simply had the opportunity to experience a cultural difference.
6) Give me some space!
Personal space varies from country to country. Americans like a lot of personal space (distance between bodies) when talking to others. Germans are okay with a bit less space. This is just something to be aware of so that you don’t back yourself into a corner by repeatedly taking two steps back to increase the personal space as your German friend repeatedly takes two steps forward to decrease the personal space.
On the flip side, making so much noise in your house that your neighbors can hear it (particularly on Sundays and during “quiet
by Carolinapb/Shutterstock.com
hours”) can be viewed by your neighbors as an assault on their space.
Final Thoughts
Please keep in mind that all the tips mentioned here are based upon one American’s observations during many years overseas. These are merely tips from one American to another and should be taken with a grain of salt rather than regarded as the definitive word in cultural awareness and adaptation. Remember, situations vary just as individuals vary. For these reasons, the final tip for blending in – or at least not standing out SO much (no matter where you are in the world) – is to simply observe your surroundings. How noisy are others (everyone is probably a bit louder at Oktoberfest), what is everyone else wearing, what words do others use and what sounds do they make?
What other cultural cues can you pick up to better fit in? Blending in is not so much about checking your national identity, pride, and customs at the airport. It’s more about showing respect to your host nation by trying to do things the local way. It’s also about practicing good OPSEC to protect yourself, your family, and other Americans in the area while being a good ambassador for your country.
Finally, blending in is about trying something new while you’re in a new environment, and, of course, decreasing the stares you get when you walk into the room. As you work to fit in, you’ll find that your host nation will honor your effort and welcome you with open arms, thereby making your time in Germany even more enjoyable.
Happy travels!
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AT THE MOVIES
The Mandalorian & Grogu (2026)
The evil Empire has fallen but Imperial warlords remain scattered throughout the galaxy. As the fledgling New Republic works to protect everything the Rebellion fought for, they enlist the help of legendary Mandalorian bounty hunter Din Djarin and his young apprentice Grogu.
Cast: Pedro Pascal, Jeremy Allen White, Brendan Wayne, Lateef Crowder, Sigourney Weaver
Director: Jon Favreau
COMEDY
The The Devil Wears Prada 2 (2026)
Miranda Priestly struggles against Emily Charlton, her former assistant turned rival executive, as they compete for advertising revenue amid declining print media, while Miranda nears retirement.
Cast: Meryl Streep, Anne Hathaway, Emily Blunt, Justin Theroux, Kenneth Branagh, Stanley Tucci Director: David Frankel
The Sheep Detectives (2026)
George Hardy is a shepherd who loves to read murder mysteries to his sheep, never suspecting that they can understand him. When George is found dead under mysterious circumstances, the sheep decide to solve the crime themselves, even if it means leaving their meadow for the first time and facing the fact that the human world isn’t as simple as it appears in books.
Cast: Hugh Jackman, Nicholas Braun, Nicholas Galitzine, Molly Gordon, Julia Louis-Dreyfus, Bryan Cranston, Chris O’Dowd, Regina Hall, Patrick Stewart, Bella Ramsey, Brett Goldstein, Hong Chau, Emma Thompson Director: Kyle Balda
Mother Mary (2026)
Long-buried wounds rise to the surface when iconic pop star Mother Mary reunites with her estranged best friend and former costume designer on the eve of her comeback performance.
Cast: Anne Hathaway, Michaela Coel, Hunter Schafer, Atheena Frizzell, Kaia Gerber, Jessica Brown Findlay, Isaura Barbé-Brown, Alba Baptista, Sian Clifford, FKA Twigs Directors: David Lowery
FRIDAY MAY 22
I Love Boosters (R) 1700 Passenger (R) 2000
Mother Mary (R) 1945
The Mandalorian & Grogu (PG-13) 1645, 1930 Mortal Kombat II (R) 1630, 1945 Devil Wears Prada 2 (PG-13) 1715
SATURDAY MAY 23 I Love Boosters (R) 1130, 2015 Passenger (R) 1415 Mother Mary (R) 1115, 1715
The Mandalorian & Grogu (PG-13) 1100, 1345, 1715, 1945
The Mandalorian & Grogu 3D (PG-13) 1400
Mortal Kombat II (R) 1415, 2030 Devil Wears Prada 2 (PG-13) 1100, 1700
Sheep Detectives (PG) 1645
Michael (PG-13) 1930
SUNDAY MAY 24
I Love Boosters (R) 1230, 1745
Passenger (R) 1230
Mother Mary (R) 1830
The Mandalorian & Grogu (PG-13) 1200, 1500, 1815
The Mandalorian & Grogu 3D (PG-13) 1500
Mortal Kombat II (R) 1515
Sheep Detectives (PG) 1515
Michael (PG-13) 1200 1815
MONDAY MAY 25
Obsession (R) 1145, 1645
Passenger (R) 1415
Mother Mary (R) 1430
The Mandalorian & Grogu (PG-13) 1115, 1345, 1700
Mortal Kombat II (R) 1100, 1415, 1715
Sheep Detectives (PG) 1130
Michael (PG-13) 1715
TUESDAY MAY 26
The Mandalorian & Grogu (PG-13) 1300 – SENSORY SHOWING
I
Love Boosters (2026)
Two sisters embark on an epic quest for revenge, confronting a charged family history that pushes them to extraordinary lengths.
Cast: Keke Palmer, Naomi Ackie, Taylour Paige, Poppy Liu, Eiza González, LaKeith Stanfield, Will Poulter, Don Cheadle, Demi Moore
Director: Boots Riley
WEDNESDAY MAY 27 CLOSED
THURSDAY MAY 28
I Love Boosters (R) 1730
Passenger (R) 1730
The Mandalorian & Grogu (PG-13) 1745
Mortal Kombat II (R) 1800
Poster by Universal Pictures
Photo by repbone / Shutterstock.com
Poster & photos by Walt Disney Studios Motion Pictures
Poster by Sony Pictures Releasing International
Poster by Universal Pictures
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