Thunderbolt 6/29/2023

Vol. 51, No. 26

Thursday, June 29, 2023

Preparing for flight News/Features: page 2 Endurance mission

News/Features: page 3 Father-son bond

Week in photos: page 4 Images from the week

Photo by Senior Airman Joshua Hastings

Community: page 15 Events, Chapel, more...

U.S. Air Force Staff Sgt. Christian Barahona, 6th Aircraft Maintenance Squadron crew chief, prepares a KC-135 Stratotanker for flight at MacDill Air Force Base, June 21. Maintainers are responsible for ensuring aircraft meet safety standards and are ready to fly.

NEWS/FEATURES

Endurance mission tests new anti-fatigue measures for KC-135 crews

by Tech. Sergeant Heather Clements 92nd Air Refueling Wing Public Affairs FAIRCHILD AIR FORCE BASE, Wash.— The 92nd Air Refueling Wing tasked personnel and KC-135 Stratotankers to execute a Phase III Lead Wing exercise June 5-9, over multiple locations, in preparation to be lead tanker wing at Air Mobility Command’s capstone exercise, Mobility Guardian 2023.

The Phase III prep exercise took previously tested concepts – aircrew endurance, dynamic air refueling concepts, testing of a variety of the KC135 mission sets – and tasked crews to sleep on the KC-135 Stratotanker, gaining adequate crewrest and added the use of commercially available, wearable devices to track real time fatigue/stress on the aircrew.

“We’ve proven that aircrew and KC-135 aircraft can withstand the 72-hour endurance mission,” said Maj. Joseph Brzozowske, 92nd Air Refueling Squadron Director of Operations. “Adding crew rest while on board an aircraft can optimize our flexibility and the use of Smart/Wearable Fatigue Tracking (SWiFT) will give Team Fairchild, and Air Mobility Command, more accurate meaSee FAIRCHILD, Page 12

Photo by Tech. Sergeant Heather Clements

U.S. Air Force Capt. Lane Griffin, 92nd Air Refueling Squadron pilot, looks out the window of a KC-135 Stratotanker during a Phase 3 Lead Wing exercise, June 6th, 2023. The exercise emphasized aircrew endurance while crew resting on the aircraft, wearing devices that track real time fatigue/stress on the aircrew, dynamic air refueling concepts, testing of a variety of the KC-135 mission sets, and included an advanced 72-hour endurance event.

COMMANDER’S ACTION LINE The Action Line provides two-way communication between the 6th Air Refueling Wing commander and the MacDill community. Personnel may submit questions, concerns or comments via email to macdillwingcommander@us.af.mil or Facebook @6thARWCommandTeam

MacDill Thunderbolt Publisher: Joe Deluca Editor: Nick Stubbs The MacDill Thunderbolt is published by the Times Publishing Company, a private firm in no way connected with the U.S. Air Force. This commercial enterprise newspaper is an authorized publication for distribution to members of the U.S. military services on MacDill. Contents of the MacDill Thunderbolt are not necessarily the official views of, or endorsed by the U.S. government, the Department of Defense,

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the Department of the Air Force or the 6th Air Refueling Wing.

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MacDill on the web Website: www.macdill.af.mil Facebook: www.facebook.com/ MacDillAirForceBase Instagram: macdill_afb Twitter: @macdill_afb News items for the MacDill Thunderbolt can be submitted to the 6th Air Refueling Wing Public Affairs office, 8208 Hangar Loop Dr., suite 14, MacDill AFB, FL 33621. Call the Thunderbolt at 828-2215. Email: 6arw.pa.macdillthunderbolt@ us.af.mil.

Deadline for article submissions is noon, Wednesdays to appear in the next week’s publication. Articles received after deadline may be considered for future use. All submissions are considered for publication based on news value and timeliness.

Every article and photograph is edited for accuracy, clarity, brevity, conformance with the “Associated Press Stylebook and Libel Manual” and Air Force Instruction 35-101.

NEWS/FEATURES A bond forged in service and sacrifice

The unbreakable father-son connection

by Senior Airman Lauren Cobin The bond between a father and son is a unique and profound relationship that evolves and strengthens over time - it becomes even more exceptional when intertwined with a shared commitment to serve one’s country.

Kory Capps, a chaplain assigned to the 6th Air Refueling Wing at MacDill Air Force Base, and his son, Karter Capps, a defender assigned to the 66th Security Forces Squadron at Hanscom Air Force Base, are a father and son duo whose unwavering bond and dedication to the military exemplify the essence of service, sacrifice, and love.

From an early age, Karter looked up to his father, Kory, as a role model. Kory’s dedication to his work as a chaplain and his continuous efforts to provide for his family left a lasting impression on each of his four children.

“When I was 12, I remember my dad being promoted at the Chapel,” said the oldest child, Karter. “I remember See BOND, Page 13

Photo by Senior Airman Lauren Cobin

U.S. Air Force Capt. Kory Capps, a chaplain assigned to the 6th Air Refueling Wing, and his son, Airman 1st Class Karter Capps, a defender assigned to the 66th Security Forces Squadron at Hanscom Air Force Base, pose for a photo at MacDill AFB June 14. The father and son duo have an unwavering bond and dedication to the military exemplifying the essence of service, sacrifice, and love.

Air Force releases FY24 special duty assignment pay adjustments

by Secretary of the Air Force Public Affairs ARLINGTON, Va. (AFNS)—The Air Force has completed its annual review of special duty assignment pay for enlisted members using a new board process to ensure appropriate distribution based off the SDAP definition.

The review focused on identifying personnel in extremely demanding positions with unusually challenging responsibilities based on a defendable scoring methodology, and decisions were made agnostic of budgetary funding.

When reviewing more than 100 career fields, the board was unaware of the budgeted SDAP funds until after each request was considered if SDAP was warranted.

The Air Force approved 70 specialties to receive SDAP in FY24. Of those approved, four were initial requests that were certified for the first time, 48 were recertified at their current rate, 11 increased rate and seven decreased rate to maintain parity with specialties of similar duties, responsibilities and training.

The DAF eliminated 33 existing rules because they no longer met the criteria for SDAP and disapproved 15 new requests for the same reason.

The changes will take effect Oct. 1.

The SDAP board used specific criteria when reviewing each request.

To be considered, the specialty and individual assignment must meet one or more of the following criteria: Duties require extremely demanding personal effort to ensure mission accomplishment.

Position requires greater responsibility or difficulty beyond what is normally expected for the member’s grade.

Position/duties require special qualifications met through rigorous screening and/or special schooling.

Members currently serving in a field that will be removed from the SDAP list will continue to receive special duty assignment pay at a rate of one-half their original SDAP through Sept. 30, 2024. Those whose SDAP will be reduced will be given 90 days before the reduced rate will become effective. Personnel receiving an increase in SDAP will see it reflected beginning Oct. 1.

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WEEK IN PHOTOS

Photo by Senior Airman Lauren Cobin

U.S. Air Force recruits tour the 6th Security Forces Squadron at MacDill Air Force Base June 14. Recruits from across Florida toured MacDill to gain a better understanding of the Air Force mission and the different roles associated with military aviation.

Photo by Airman 1st Class Derrick Bole

Photo by Senior Airman Joshua Hastings

U.S. Air Force Col. Erich Schroeder, 6th Medical Group commander, passes the 6th Operational Medical Readiness Squadron guidon to Col. Deana Dominguez, 6th OMRS commander, during a change of command ceremony at MacDill Air Force Base June 15. The passing of the guidon symbolizes the official start of Dominguez’s tenure as the new 6th OMRS commander.

U.S. Air Force Airman 1st Class Denlie Cadangan, 6th Operations Support Squadron air traffic control apprentice, reviews information during on-the-job training at MacDill Air Force Base June 21. Air Force air traffic control specialists are responsible for managing the flow of aircraft through all aspects of flight and ensure the safety and efficiency of assets on the ground and in the air.

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NEWS/FEATURES AF senior leaders hold contested logistics table-top exercise

by Secretary of the Air Force Public Affairs ARLINGTON, Va. (AFNS)—This week, senior Air Force officials gathered to discuss strategy, policy and the future fight at the CORONA-South summit at MacDill Air Force Base, where senior leaders held a table-top exercise focused on the strategic risks related to conducting logistics in contested environments.

“All our operations are underwritten by logistics,” said Secretary of the Air Force Frank Kendall. “Our ability to rapidly move people and supplies is one of our defining capabilities and logistics sustains our ability to project power. This exercise clearly defined the challenges ahead of us if we are called upon to respond to a large-scale contingency.”

The exercise was based on a logistically stressed scenario derived from challenges noted in the National Defense Strategy. Participants discussed sustainment of forces actively maneuvering in Agile Combat Employment, defense and recovery from attack, as well as topics about See TABLE-TOP, Page 11

Photo by Tech. Sgt. Luther Mitchell Jr.

Air Force Chief of Staff Gen. CQ Brown, Jr. delivers opening remarks during the CORONA South all-call at MacDill Air Force Base June 15.

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NEWS/FEATURES

Dover AFB prepares for hurricane season

by Roland Balik 436th Airlift Wing Public Affairs DOVER AIR FORCE BASE, Del. (AFNS)—Team Dover prepared for hurricane season by generating seven C-5M Super Galaxy and six C-17 Globemaster III hurricane evacuation missions during an exercise at Dover Air Force Base, June 5-6.

The Atlantic hurricane season typically runs from June 1 to Nov. 30, with storms possibly developing before or after the observed six-month period.

In a real-world hurricane weather event, aircraft assigned to Dover AFB are flown to stateside locations away from the hurricane’s path or sent on real-world missions prior to the arrival of a hurricane.

Hurricane evacuation exercises, also known as HURREVACs, hone Airmen’s ability to quickly generate aircraft to depart Dover AFB or secure aircraft and assets in hangars.

“Overall, the event was a success; generating and launching 13 aircraft See HURRICANE, Page 10

Photo by Roland Balik

Airman 1st Class Sierra Davenport, 436th Aircraft Maintenance Squadron crew chief, provides Capt. Kris Eddy, 436th AMXS aircraft maintenance unit officer in charge, with marshaling instructions as Eddy marshals a C-5M Super Galaxy off its parking spot at Dover Air Force Base, Del., June 6. The Super Galaxy was the second of seven to depart Dover AFB during the base’s hurricane evacuation exercise.

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DAF leaders convene at CORONA South 2023

by Senior Airman Joshua Hastings 6th Air Refueling Wing Public Affairs

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epartment of the Air Force leaders congregated for CORONA South 2023 at MacDill Air Force Base, June 12-15. Members in attendance included the Secretary of the Air Force, Air Force Chief of Staff, Chief Master Sergeant of the Air Force, and approximately 90 general officers representing each area of responsibility and functional area of operations.

The CORONA South summit provided DAF leaders with a forum to discuss global concerns and the Air Force’s operational strategy within the Joint Force. MacDill last hosted the summit in June 2021.

Last month, President Joe Biden announced Air Force Chief of Staff Gen. CQ Brown, Jr. as his nomination for the next Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff. If confirmed, Brown would become the first Air Force general to hold the top military position since 2005.

Brown’s Action Orders to ‘Accelerate Change or Lose’ have been a primary focus for the Air Force since December 2020, and were reemphasized at the last CORONA South summit.

On the final day of the convention, Brown and Chief Master Sgt. of the Air Force JoAnne S. Bass addressed Airmen assigned to the 6th Air Refueling Wing during an all-call. Brown spoke on the importance of mental health, recruiting and retaining Airmen, the capabilities of younger Airmen, and how the Air Force will continue to implement change to stay ahead of pacing threats.

“We have to be comfortable being uncomfortable to accelerate change,” Brown said. “Personally and professionally, I don’t play for second place. I play to win. Our responsibility as Airmen in our Air Force is to do the things that are important to make sure our adversaries wake up every day and say, ‘not today’.”

Brown added that developing multi-capable Airmen and implementing Agile Combat Employment would be critical components in a potential future conflict.

Three noncommissioned officers and one company grade officer were recognized during the all-call for their work performance. Bass said that current staff sergeants, technical sergeants, captains and majors are going to be the leaders that drive the Air Force forward, but stressed the importance of the role younger ranks have.

“You’re going to see more changes in the next two-to-six years than I have seen throughout my 30-year career, and much of that will come from our youngest Airmen,” Bass said. “Thank you for being part of the 1% who wears this uniform and defends our great nation - especially during such a consequential time.”

The all-call concluded with a question-and-answer session with remarks from Brown.

“I love what I do, and I appreciate being able to serve as your chief,” Brown said. “I love a challenge, and we got some challenges. We got work to do.” ◆

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Chief Master Sgt. of the Air Force JoAnne S. Bass delivers remarks durin held bi-annually that allows Air Force commanders to discuss strategy a

Photo by Tech. Sgt. Luther Mitchell Jr.

ng the CORONA South all-call at MacDill Air Force Base June 15. Top Air Force leaders convened at MacDill June 12-15 for CORONA South, an event and policy.

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HURRICANE From Page 7

in a single day and accounting for and securing 100% of Dover assigned tails,” said Maj. Michael Connelly, 436th Airlift Wing Inspector General chief of wing exercises.

“While it showed Dover AFB is ready to respond to a major weather event, these exercises also allow us to continually update and improve upon our plans and processes to reflect the latest information and best practices across all base agencies and our local, state and federal partners.”

As a part of the exercise, 436th Mission Generation Group aircraft maintainers and 436th Operations Group aircrews partnered to test their abilities by launching 13 aircraft in rapid succession.

“The hurricane evacuation exercise provided a prime opportunity to test our ability to rapidly generate and launch the fleet while also protecting our most important assets, our Airmen and families,” said Col. Bary Flack, 436th MGG commander.

Active duty and Reserve aircrews from the 3rd, 9th, 326th and 709th Airlift Squadrons flew C-5M and C-17 aircraft away from Dover AFB during the exercise.

“This exercise gave the OG and MGG an excellent chance to test out our ability to work together to keep our aircraft and equipment safe,” said Col. Kenny Weiner, 436th OG commander. “We certainly learned plenty of valuable lessons.”

This was Weiner’s first wing exercise as OG commander at Dover AFB. “This was a monumental feat and I am very proud of the aircrew, maintainers and the wing,” Weiner said. “It was a huge success and demonstrated that a lot of hard work by our Airmen paid off.”

On June 5, the decision to evacuate aircraft was made 96 hours prior to the simulated hurricane’s expected arrival, thus making June 6 the fly-away date.

“Our mission generators absolutely crushed this exercise and we are proud to have partnered with the crews from the OG — what an amazing team,” Flack said.

In addition to the fly-away, senior leaders and base agency representatives held a detailed scenario-based tabletop exercise covering base actions beyond aircraft evacuation from the first indication that a storm could impact Dover AFB. “This exercise allowed us to validate proof of concept of a HURREVAC and made us more proficient by going through the physical motions of generating and preparing aircraft to either fly away or secure them here in a hangar if they were not airworthy,” said Lt. Col. Josephine Beacham, 436th Aircraft Maintenance Squadron commander. “There were some lessons learned in terms of process optimization and remaining flexible due to unknowns of any natural disaster. In the end, we can always find ways to be just a little better each time.”

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Photo by Roland Balik

A C-5M Super Galaxy flown by a 9th Airlift Squadron aircrew, takes off from Dover Air Force Base, Del., June 6. C-5M maintainers launched seven Super Galaxies from Dover AFB.

Photo by Airman 1st Class Amanda Jett

Lt. Col. Ryan Cox, 326th Airlift Squadron pilot, performs a preflight inspection on a C-17 Globemaster III during the 2023 hurricane evacuation exercise at Dover Air Force Base, Del., June 6. The C-17 was one of six that departed Dover AFB during the hurricane evacuation exercise.

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TABLE-TOP From Page 5

expanding capacity within the defense industrial base.

The U.S. Air Force’s logistics capabilities are unmatched, yet exercises like these help leaders address future challenges, which will be overcome through adaptive training and tactics, key investments in logistics capabilities, and innovation from American Airmen.

“Credible military logistics capability is a key element of integrated deterrence,” said Air Force Chief of Staff Gen. CQ Brown, Jr. “As a member of the Joint Force team, the Air Force must adapt quickly to the character of a modern, high-end fight, and I’m proud of how the professionals from across our logistics enterprise are pushing to accelerate change in this decisive decade.”

This table-top exercise demonstrated to participants that in order to align with the Department of the Air Force’s Operational Imperatives, resilient basing, and readiness to deploy and fight, the joint logistics enterprise must pursue critical investments to ensure the Air Force can sustain the fight against any adversary in the future.

Critical investments include teaming with industry to equip forces with lighter, more mobile support equipment and partnering with allies to ensure combined efforts within the logistics enterprise and industrial base are synchronized and responsive during contingencies.

A large range of critical tasks are required to come together to keep the Air Force ready to deter potential adversaries or prevail in conflict, if necessary. For example, every combat sortie, Airmen perform hours of maintenance, test and transport fuel, build and load munitions, and prepare air crew life support systems. Engineers provide power, maintain infrastructure, and stand ready to extinguish flames or repair damaged airfields. Security Forces lead multi-capable Airmen to defend operating locations. Additionally, maintaining a fleet of aircraft and missile systems, which require periodic depot-level maintenance, relies on expert DAF civilian and contract employees who return weapons systems to better than new condition.

Findings during this exercise reinforced the need for leaders to retain a relentless focus on accelerating change across the spectrum of combat-credible logistics capabilities, which are the foundation of air and space power generation.

“Every commander should understand their logistical risks and challenges, because those are in-effect operational constraints,” said Lt. Gen. Tom Miller, deputy chief of staff for Logistics, Engineering and Force Protection. “Logistics has always been a great strength of American airpower, and we will not let it become a weakness.”

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FAIRCHILD From Page 2

sures of fatigue to mitigate the negative effects it has on aircrew.”

Fairchild tested basic crews’ ability to complete multiple 24-hour and 16-hour flight duty periods, while optimizing crew rest on the aircraft. Without a waiver, basic crews, comprised of two pilots and one in-flight refueling specialist, are only allowed to operate on a 16-hour flight duty period and are limited to 12-hour flight-duty periods when they are unable to use auto-pilot.

“We have to use every tool at our disposal,” said Col. Chesley Dycus, 92nd ARW commander.

“This exercise tested new concepts to accomplish complex missions, ensuring our ability to rapidly project global mobility, and endure throughout geographically dispersed areas with limited communications.”

Fairchild is the lead tanker base for the Defense Innovation Unit’s SWiFT research program.

This fatigue mitigation beta testing gave the aircrew customized fatigue curves based on their individual sleep/exercise patterns gathered by smart-wearables. SWiFT can accurately predict times when individual crewmembers will be most at risk to committing an error based on their sleep quality and quantity, circadian rhythm shifts, and other biometric data.

“The aim of the SWiFT program is to reduce fatigue-induced aircrew errors by highlighting vulnerability windows,” according to Maj. Nate Mocalis, 92nd Air Refueling Wing Director of Innovation. “Individuals can take active measures to mitigate the effects of fatigue during periods of heightened vulnerability.”

The KC-135 basic crews that flew for a 24-hour duty period were comprised of a three-person crew that had previously tested go-pills. Midway through the 24-hour period, additional aircrew boarded the plane and slept in the bunk areas of the KC-135 during their proper crew rest cycles, with an opportunity for 8 hours of sleep prior to taking the previous crews place in-flight. They were authorized to use any and all anti-fatigue measures to complete the 24-hour duty period.

At advanced stages of the crew endurance test, a safety and flight medicine observer were each on board to evaluate fatigue levels and ensure the safety of the crew.

“Every day, we are learning new lessons that we want to apply in combat, so this mission-generation exercise is a chance to test our capabilities at a tempo and scale that approximates combat 12

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Photo by Tech. Sergeant Heather Clements

U.S. Air Force Tech. Sergeant Matt Hurless, 92nd Air Refueling Squadron in-flight refueling specialist, displays a Smart/Wearable Fatigue Tracking (SWiFT) watch during a Phase 3 Lead Wing exercise, June 6th, 2023. The main use of this device is to integrate the device’s collected metrics into existing Aviation Operational Risk Management (AvORM) practices, ultimately enhancing AMC’s ability to provide safe and rapid global mobility. operations,” said Gen. Mike Minihan, Air Mobility Command commander.

Throughout the 68-hour mission, crews conducted 16-hour flight duty periods to test key Agile Combat Employment concepts for the KC-135 such as: hot pit refueling, concurrent servicing, dynamic re-taskings, and exercising beyond-line of sight communications with command & control authorities.

“Air Mobility Command is the joint force maneuver,” Minihan wrote in ‘Air Mobility Command: The Meaningful Maneuver for Joint Force Victory.’ “the joint force will require the placement of forces to achieve the strategic advantage in conflict, also known as maneuver. AMC will be the meaningful maneuver for the joint force, and we will deliver victory.”

Two aircraft from the 92nd ARW participated in the three-day exercise, performed aerial refueling and associated ACE concepts over Eielson AFB, at McConnell AFB, and MacDill AFB. “Our decision to be ready, to be integrated, to be agile,” said Minihan

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As the world’s Super Tanker Wing, Fairchild continues to refine tactics, techniques and procedures oriented on the Mobility Air Force’s full range of mobility readiness capabilities needed for today’s steady state operations and tomorrow’s high-end fight.

“The crews of Fairchild consistently test to the edge of their limits,” said Col. Chesley Dycus, 92nd ARW commander. “It’s amazing to see - the lessons learned, and data gained during this exercise, and our readiness, will only improve the wing’s ability to support Mobility Guardian in 2023 and demonstrate our unrivaled capabilities in complex environments.”

Testing crew and aircraft endurance combined with locally developed multi-capable airmen concepts like Tanker Drop-in Teams, helps us improve and refine tanker refueling operations in austere and contested environments. All of these concepts combined will be demonstrated when Team Fairchild is lead tanker wing for Air Mobility Command’s capstone exercise Mobility Guardian, in July 2023.

BOND From Page 3

it felt like such a big deal. I was so proud of him.”

Despite the demands of his career, Kory always made time to be present for his children, instilling in them the values of hard work and integrity.

“I didn’t always know what he was doing but I always respected him,” Karter emphasized. “Even though he was so busy, he always made time to take care of his family.”

Karter’s decision to join the military, following in his father’s footsteps, deepened the bond between the two.

“For him to be a military kid, and to have gone through what he did all throughout his childhood, and still step in and say ‘yeah I want to serve’… I just really respect him for that,” Kory said.

As Karter embarked on his journey as an Airman, he continued to find new respect and understanding of his father’s work and the sacrifices he has made.

“I now understand just how hard he works and what it means to be in the United States military,” said Karter. “Ever since joining, I’ve noticed that I can relate to my dad more and more.”

Karter’s own experiences in the military have enhanced his admiration for his father’s teachings and the values he instilled.

“Parenting is the most rewarding and the most challenging thing I’ve done in life for sure,” said Kory. “The whole world changed when we had kids. It’s a bit of a mirror in your own life.”

Kory taught his children the importance of humility, treating others with kindness and compassion, and always striving to be a person with whom others feel comfortable with.

“My dad taught me to always stay humble, no matter what you’re doing in life,” said Karter. “No matter what job you work – just work hard and do not be boastful or too prideful.”

Being in the same branch of the military as his father holds a deep sense of pride for Karter. The connection they share through service creates a unique bond that is rarely seen. It is a testament to the enduring legacy of their family’s dedication to the United States military.

“I feel like heritage is a big part of why I joined,” said Karter. “I wouldn’t have joined the Air Force, or even the military in general, if it wasn’t for my dad.”

For Kory, his experiences as a father have shaped his leadership style, emphasizing the importance of treating those under his command with the same care, compassion and respect he would want for his own children.

“We are handing the Nation’s most precious assets - people’s sons and daughters,” said Kory. “We can never lose that perspective because that is as sacred of trust as it ever gets.”

“A simple question I ask when mentoring leaders is, ‘would I trust you with my son, would I trust you to lead him, take care of him, and give him what he needs? Would I sleep well at night knowing that he is under your charge?’” said Kory. “To me, that’s the trust that every parent in America is giving us as military leaders.”

As Karter progresses in his own military career, the bond between father and son continues to grow. Karter’s unwavering commitment, discipline, and drive fill Kory with pride and admiration.

Their relationship has evolved to a deep friendship built on mutual respect and shared experiences.

“He’s super driven, disciplined and motivated - he blows me away,” said Kory. “He has this fierce ability to protect and care deeply about those he loves. It’s so cool seeing what he’s doing now because it fits so well, it really fits. He’s going to do great.”

The father-son bond between Kory and Karter Capps stands as a testament to the unbreakable connection forged through service, sacrifice, and love.

“I am just so thankful all that he has done, and continues to do for us as his family,” said Karter.

Their shared military journey has brought them closer together, allowing them to understand and appreciate each other on a profound level. As they continue to navigate their paths within the military, their bond serves as a reminder of the enduring power of family, heritage, and the pursuit of a greater purpose.

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COMMUNITY

EVENTS

Red, White, and Blue 3K/5K The Short Fitness Center will be hosting a 5K run/3K walk on June 30 at 7 a.m. in the South Field to kick off your 4th of July weekend.

Runners are encouraged to wear red, white, and blue. Prizes for fastest male and female in both the 3K and 5K. For more information on this event, visit macdillfss. com/short-fitness-center/.

Fourth of July closures For a full list of 6 FSS program facilities, food and beverage, and recreational facility closures, visit macdillfss.com/4thofjulhours2023/.

Armed Forces Voter Week Members can request an absentee ballot, check voter status, or register to vote at fvap.gov June 28 – July 4.

Kids bowl free MacDill Lanes has partnered with Kids Bowl Free, a program designated to give back to the community and provide a safe, secure, and fun way for kids to spend time this spring and summer. Register your child(ren) to receive two free games of bowling at the MacDill Lanes May 26 – Aug.31. To register and review terms, visit kidsbowlfree.com/center.php?alley_ id=6553.

Become a Secret Shopper Get paid to call or visit 6 FSS facilities. To learn more, call or email the 6th FSS Marketing Department at 828-2513 or sixfssfsk@gmail.com.

The Champ!

Photo by Airman 1st Class Derrick Bole

U.S. Air Force Staff Sgt. Robert Munro, 6th Operational Medical Readiness Squadron initial flying class physical coordinator, middle, receives the Champ of the Week award from 6th Air Refueling Wing leadership at MacDill Air Force Base June 20. Munro processed 26 initial flying class physicals for the 6th ARW, U.S. Special Operations Command, Joint Communications Support Element, and Reserve Officers Training Corps. He is on the AFWERX evaluation team and dedicated over eight hours to reviewing proposals for qualification totaling $8.5 billion.

CHAPEL SCHEDULE Normal Hours- Monday - Friday - 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. After hours chaplain, call the Command Post at 828-4362/4361.

Monday-Wednesday Mass - 12:10 p.m.

Protestant virtual services - Sunday - 11 a.m. (www. facebook.com/6amwhc)

Jewish - Monthly Lunch and Learn: For schedule & to join distro, please contact elimelach.estrin@us.af.mil

www.macdill.af.mil/chapel

Islamic Service - Friday 1:30 p.m. (space reserved)

Catholic Mass - Sunday - 9:30 a.m. (confessions by ap-

Other Faith Groups - Please contact the Chapel at (813)

pointment)

828-3621 or via email at 6ARW.HCADMIN@us.af.mil

Find more events at: macdillfss.com For more details and information, visit the Chapel Facebook page at http://www.facebook/6amwhc/ or MacDill’s Chapel website is: https://www.macdill.af.mil/chapel MACDILL THUNDERBOLT ◆ Thursday, June 29, 2023 ◆ WWW.MACDILLTHUNDERBOLT.COM ◆ 15

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News “For the WIN”

JULY ‘23

6th Force Support Squadron Telephone Extensions Prefix 828

Commander....................................... 2823 Deputy ................................................ 2823 Ops Officer......................................... 2703 Mortuary Affairs.............................. 6597 Unit Readiness ............................... 2252 Senior Enlisted Leader..................... 3969 Honor Guard ....................................5190 First Sergeant.....................................4153 Marketing & Publicity.......................3055

0 10 s r e ve rs e!

O ou labl C ai Av

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6th Force Support Squadron’s Monthly Highlights – a Supplement to the MacDill AFB Thunderbolt Golf Cou lms rse Pa

GOLF SIMULATOR

Military & Family Readiness Flight..0134 Military & Family Readiness Ctr ......0145 Child & Youth Services Flight .......5097 Child Development Ctr 1.................. 3332 Child Development Ctr 2 ................. 2244 Child Development Ctr 3 ..................0195 Family Child Care .............................. 7760 School Age Care................................. 5971 Youth Center...................................... 7956 Civilian Personnel Flight................4286 Civilian Personnel .............................6090 Human Resource Office (NAF) .........2911 Community Services Flight............2921 Arts & Crafts Center..........................4413 Auto Hobby Shop ................... 373-6545 Wood Hobby Shop .........................2093 Bay Palms Golf Complex ................0046 8 Iron Grill.........................................1507 Information, Tickets & Travel ...............2478 MacDill Bowling Lanes.....................4005 Hangar 6 Grill ...................................7735 Outdoor Recreation/Equip Rental/ FamCamp ................................ 840-6919 Pool............................................769-9901 Marina ..............................................4983 Skeet Range............................ 488-1244

A Fun Way to Play or Work on Your Game!

Bring your own clubs or use ours 1-4 players $20 • 1/2 hr of practice $40 • 1 hour of play

Stop by or call Pro Shop to reserve your spot!

NEW!

Force Development Flight ............. 7320 Airman Leadership School.............. 2299 Base Theater...................................... 3607 Education .............................................3115 Library................................................. 3607 Professional Development...............1229 Training ...............................................4004 Manpower/Org Flight ..................... 9977 Manpower ............................................3711 Military Personnel Flight CAC Appointment Line ................796-5272 6fss.fsmps.deersidcards@us.af.mil Resource Mgmt Flight.....................1449 Private Organizations....................... 6962 Sustainment Services Flight ..........0034 2 Brews Catering...................... 840-2020 Diner’s Reef Dining Facility...............2412 Flight Meals....................................4998 Fitness Center...................................4496 MacDill Inn - Lodging........................ 4259 Rickenbacker’s ..............................7425 SeaScapes Restaurant ............. 840-1451 Breakaway Event Ctr/Boomers .. 840-2020

ma c d i ll fss. c om MACDILL THUNDERBOLT ◆ Thursday, June 29, 2023 ◆ WWW.MACDILLTHUNDERBOLT.COM ◆ 1

6FSS NEWS

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ARTS & TRADE CRAFTS • (813) 828-4413

July ‘23 O U T D O O R

R E C R E A T I O N

RECREATION FUN HEADQUARTERS! Please register in person or by phone for all courses at least 3 business days in advance. (813) 828-4413 https://macdillfss.com/arts-and-trade-crafts/ Coffee & Canvas • Learn at Lunch Framing • Kids Craft Club Pick & Pour Resin Seascape • Beach Bracelets Stone & Resin Flamingo • Paint & Sip - Under the Sea

Need a Going Away Gift?

MacDill Marina • Equipment Rental • FamCamp

Call (813) 840-6919 or (813) 840-6920 for more information & reservations.

SHORT FITNESS & SPORTS CENTER • (813) 828-4496

We Are Your Gift Headquarters!

LASERING - AWARDS | PLAQUES - TROPHIES PROMOTIONAL PRODUCTS | CUSTOM FRAMING SHADOW BOXES | FLAG BOXES | CUSTOM WOOD WORKING & MORE!

BIG DAWG POWER LIFTING COMPETITION

SATURDAY, JULY 8 • 11AM Stretch • 11:15AM Start

SQUATS • DEADLIFTS • BENCHPRESS • MEMBERS WILL BE EVALUATED ON 3 ROUNDS OF EACH WORKOUT • 1ST PLACE PRIZE IN 2 WEIGHT CATEGORIES (UNDER 175/OVER 176 - MALE & FEMALE) • REFRESHMENTS PROVIDED • ALL PARTICIPANTS RECEIVE FITNESS TOWEL & PIC ON LIFTING BOARD USE THE SIGN UP BOARD AT THE FITNESS CENTER FRONT DESK FOR REGISTRATION 2

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WWW.MACDILLTHUNDERBOLT.COM ◆ Thursday, June 29, 2023 ◆ MACDILL THUNDERBOLT

July ‘23 Now 2 August

6FSS NEWS

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BASE LIBRARY • (813) 828-3607

DOD SUMMER READING PROGRAM Getappthe Register online at https://macdill.beanstackorg/

Earn reading incentives.

Stop by the Base Library to pick up your earned rewards.

Reading Milestone Minutes & Prizes (while supplies last) Reading Age Categories: Pre-readers (ages 0-5); Children (ages 6-12); Teens (ages 13-17); and Adults (18+)

Located inside the Short Fitness & Sports Center Salads & Bowls | Paninis | Smoothies Fruits-n-Snacks & MORE!

Know Your Dining Options at MacDill AFB

6TH FORCE SUPPORT SQUADRON 8 Iron Grill (Golf Course) Diner’s Reef Dining Facility (DFAC) Hangar 6 Grill (Bowling Center)

ESM Card Holders Welcome!

Rickenbacker’s Cafe (Lobby of MacDill Inn)

Menus & Hours of Operation SeaScapes Restaurant (Base Beach) https://macdillfss.com/ FitStop Smoothies & More (Fitness Center) eat-drink/ MACDILL THUNDERBOLT ◆ Thursday, June 29, 2023 ◆ WWW.MACDILLTHUNDERBOLT.COM ◆ 3

6FSS NEWS

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July ‘23

INFORMATION, TICKETS & TRAVEL

Ticket Counter: (813) 828-2478

Leisure Travel Office: (813) 828-1860

NEW ACTIVE DUTY MILITARY PROMOTIONS We are excited to offer Active-Duty Military & their families these great products available to purchase.

– Active-Duty Military may purchase up to six (6) Military Passes –

NEW! SeaWorld & Aquatica Orlando 2023 Military Pass

Unlimited visits to SeaWorld and Aquatica Orlando and general parking through Dec. 31, 2023 for only $163.75 each (normally priced at $300.00).

NEW!

Unlimited visits to Busch Gardens and Adventure Island Tampa and general parking through Dec. 31, 2023 for only $143.75 each (normally priced at $300.00).

Specialist to Make Your Holiday Plans Now!

2023-’24 ORLANDO MAGIC

PRESEASON PRICING Ho

North Club Bar

Club H

ospit

ality

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DS EN B LEG UITE S

SEATING AREA

PRICE

ULTIMATE *

$167.25

TERRACE A

$56.00

TERRACE B

$27.00

CLUB

$49.50

PROMENADE A

$19.00

PROMENADE B

$14.00

LET LOOSE ON LEAVE

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LE SU GEND ITE S A

Club

l i t y 15 spita

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ORLANDO

MAGIC

It’s time to kick down the gates and let loose with all your favorite people. Your next Universal vacation is about to open up all kinds of awesome — in all the best ways. Universal Orlando Resort’s three theme parks and amazing hotels (including exclusive benefits like Early Park Admission*) are yours to enjoy, explore and experience some crazy special times that none of us will ever forget.

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*Ultimate seats include access to Fields Ultimate Lounge WITH ALL-INCLUSIVE FOOD & BEVERAGE MAGIC

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ORLANDO

4

5

6

PRESEASON

1

2

3

SCHEDULE

Valid theme park admission required. Select attractions.

Y NE CE D IS R R A TE

Universal elements and all related indicia TM & © 2023 Universal Studios. All rights reserved.

BUD LIGHT BASELINE BAR N W

E S

Tuesday OCT. 17 7PM

NOTE: All prices are subject to change until purchased. Accessible seating is available.

Friday OCT. 20 7PM

+ PAOLO BANCHERO POWER FORWARD NO.5

Orlando Magic Preseason Tickets Now Available!

@macdillfss 4

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WWW.MACDILLTHUNDERBOLT.COM ◆ Thursday, June 29, 2023 ◆ MACDILL THUNDERBOLT

mac dillf s s .c o m