Thunderbolt 5/02/2024

Vol. 52, No. 18

Thursday, May 2, 2024

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News/Features: page 3 AnAmerican dream

News/Features: page 3 Tribal engagement

Week in photos: page 4 Images from the week Photo by Airman 1st Class Sterling Sutton

U.S. Air Force Senior Airman Nathan Zelasko, a boom operator assigned to the 91st Air Refueling Squadron, poses for a photo with Kelly Flannery, president of the South Tampa Chamber of Commerce, prior to a refueling mission over the Southeastern United States, April 11. Flannery was part of a civic leader group who toured various Air Force bases to strengthen relations and bolster community support.

Community: page 13 Events, Chapel, more...

Be sure to visit the official 6th Air Refueling Wing website at www.macdill.af.mil

NEWS/FEATURES

317th AW completes first C-130J Max Endurance Operation with external fuel tanks 7th Bomb Wing Public Affairs DYESS AIR FORCE BASE, Texas—The 317th Airlift Wing achieved a significant milestone on April 20, by becoming the first unit in Air Mobility Command’s history to complete a C130J Max Endurance Operation (MEO) equipped with external fuel tanks. This operation, dubbed Hazard Leap, highlighted the wing’s extended range capabilities and established a new standard in operational endurance.

During the operation, one C-130J Super Hercules from the 40th Airlift Squadron embarked on a remarkable 26-hour and 33-minute singleaircraft mission to Andersen AFB, Guam, with only one fuel stop in Hawaii, demonstrating the C-130J’s ability to operate for extended periods without stopping.

The MEO from Dyess to Guam showcased the wing’s ability to rapidly deploy into the Indo-Pacific Area of Responsibility and be ready to immediately conduct any follow-on missions.

To accomplish the mission, the team split into two fully augmented crews. Capt. Anna Santori, a pilot from the 40th Airlift Squadron and Hazard Leap crew, provided insights into the benefits of the extended range. She explained, “The external tanks have new capabilities for us, allowing us to fly farther without refueling. It gives us See C-130J, Page 11

7th Bomb Wing Public Affairs photo

A U.S. Air Force C-130J Super Hercules assigned to the 40th Airlift Squadron takes off from Dyess Air Force Base, Texas, in support of a Maximum Endurance Operation to Andersen Air Force Base, Guam, April 18, 2024. During the operation, one C-130J Super Hercules equipped with external fuel tanks embarked on a remarkable 26-hour single-aircraft mission, validating the aircraft’s extended range capabilities but also showcasing the multi-day mission generation capabilities of the squadron.

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.

The appearance of advertising in this publication, including inserts or supplements, does not constitute endorsement by the Department of Defense, the Department of the Air Force, 6th Air Refueling Wing or the Publishing Company of the products or service advertised.

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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 , FL 33621. Call the Thunderbolt at 828-2215. : 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

Living the American dream: paying it forward

by Kenneth Abbate 60th Air Mobility Wing Public Affairs

TRAVIS AIR FORCE BASE, Calif.—According to former President Harry S. Truman, “America was built on courage, on imagination and an unbeatable determination to do the job at hand.” That is a belief U.S. Air Force Capt. Mason Zhang, 60th Diagnostics & Therapeutic Squadron inpatient pharmacy chief, holds very dear to himself and his family’s cultural background.

Born March 21, 1993, in Portland, Oregon, Zhang graduated from David Douglas High School in 2011. Following high school, he continued his education at Oregon State University, where he received his bachelor’s in microbiology, master’s in business administration and doctorate in pharmacy.

According to Zhang, he developed his strong sense of determination and work ethic from watching his father’s struggles.

“From an early age, my father instilled in me the values of hard work, freedom and what a privilege it is to live in a free country,” said Zhang.

“Inspired by the dedication of my father, I joined the Air Force when I was 27. I saw it as the perfect alignment: an opportunity to apply the skills I’ve acquired while attaining my doctorate and a chance to serve the nation that had offered so much to me and my family.”

Zhang’s father, Guo, is originally from Guangzhou, China and moved to the U.S. after losing everything in the turmoil of the Cultural Revolution. Guo arrived in America with nothing but the clothes on his back.

Rather than succumb to despair, he embraced the opportunity to rebuild See DREAM Page 10

Courtesy photo

Mason Zhang, lower left, poses for a photo in his home in 1997 with his mother, Hu Chu Wen Zhang, top left, his father, Guo Rong Zhang, top center, his grandmother, Huang Yan, right, and his sister, Mandy Zhang, center. Zhang credits his close relationship with his first-generation immigrant family as the reason he joined the U.S. Air Force.

AMC partners with community school to host local tribal engagement

by Airman 1st Class Matthew Arachikavitz 92nd Air Refueling Wing Public Affairs FORT YATES, N.D. —Air Mobility Command partnered with Standing Rock Community School to host a tribal engagement in Fort Yates, North Dakota, April 18.

Leaders from across AMC, Air Force Global Strike Command, Air Force Recruiting Service and the North Dakota National Guard spent the day with students from Standing Rock Community School and the local tribal community to showcase the Air Force’s commitment to decreasing barriers for members of indigenous nations to serve and foster relationships with the Lakota and Dakota nations of the Standing Rock Sioux Tribe.

Gen. Mike Minihan, AMC commander, led the delegation of military professionals assigned to the 92nd Air Refueling Wing, the 5th Bomb Wing, North Dakota Air National Guard and Air Force Recruiting Service. Airmen assigned to McConnell Air Force Base, Kansas, and Offutt AFB, Nebraska, also attended the engagement to highlight science, technology, engineering and mathematics opportunities for students.

See AMC, Page 14

Photo by Airman 1st Class Matthew Arachikavitz

Students and local community members interact with Airmen during a Lakota tribal engagement in Fort Yates, North Dakota, April 18. Gen. Mike Minihan, commander of Air Mobility Command, led a team of leaders from across AMC and the North Dakota area who spent the day with students from Standing Rock Community School and the local tribal community.

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WEEK IN PHOTOS

U.S. Air Force photo

Coalition forces gather prior to an Anzac Day remembrance ceremony at an undisclosed location within the U.S. Central Command area of responsibility, April 24. Australia and New Zealand Army Corps Day marks the beginning of the Battle of Gallipoli and is commemorated annually as a day of remembrance for those who made the ultimate sacrifice.

Photo by Senior Airman Joshua Hastings

U.S. Air Force photo

U.S. Air Force Staff Sgt. Devan Pearson, left, and Senior Airman Jayden Sanchez, 6th Security Forces Squadron marine patrolmen, scan the waters surrounding MacDill Air Force Base April 18. The 6th SFS marine patrol unit monitors MacDill’s coastal restricted area extending over 1 mile outside of base and prevents unauthorized vessels from entering.

A U.S. Air Force Explosive Ordnance Disposal technician assigned to the U.S. Central Command area of responsibility participates in an EOD training exercise at an undisclosed location, April 26. EOD technicians employ special tools and vehicles to safely locate, identify, recover, disarm, and dispose of dangerous weapons.

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NEWS/FEATURES

Reshaping a resilient body and mind

by Airman 1st Class Bailey Wyman 1st Special Operations Wing HURLBURT FIELD, Fla.—Relentlessly working toward this goal for months, Studer walked off the stage after a few short minutes, knowing he didn’t make the cut.

U.S. Air Force Maj. Jerime Studer, a U-28A Evaluator Combat Systems Officer, was strikingly familiar with the competitive nature of sports. He had been an athlete the majority of his life, having played football through college and following every fitness program he could find. This competition, however, was completely foreign to him.

Studer recalls his first experience in a bodybuilding competition as nerve wracking.

“I assumed I was there to compete and nobody around me was my friend,” says Studer. “I sat quietly and didn’t even know how to get ready, so I followed those around me.”

Nearing the stage, Studer was tense. Injured and not knowing what to expect, he made his way in front of the judges and began his routine.

See STUDER, Page 7

Photo by Airman 1st Class Bailey Wyman

U.S. Air Force Maj. Jerime Studer, a U-28A evaluator Combat Systems officer, poses for a portrait at Hurlburt Field, Florida, April 17. Combat systems officers are responsible for being experts in their assigned aircraft, specializing in weapon systems employment, electronic warfare operations, and navigation.

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NEWS/FEATURES USSOCOM Care Coalition hosts its 2024 Warrior Care Conference

by Michael Bottoms U.S. Special Operations Command U.S. Special Operations Command’s Warrior Care Program (Care Coalition) held its Warrior Care Conference in Orlando, Florida, April 9-11.

More than 330 people participated in the two-day conference which had panels discussing novel and emerging therapies, cancer treatment, suicide prevention, and traumatic brain injury. Also, there were more than 60 federal and non-federal organizations in attendance providing important networking and veteran care opportunities.

The annual conference is a unique opportunity that brings together those who support special operations forces wounded, ill, and injured warriors and their families to share best practices, discuss current trends within the warrior care community, and learn from each other in a dynamic environment. Topics discussed include updates from the command’s surgeon and Preservation of the Force and Family Task Force as well as current information from therapy panels.

The conference kicked off with Air Force Lt. Gen. Sean Ferrell, deputy commander of USSOCOM, giving opening remarks and presenting the USSOCOM Patriot Award. The Patriot Award recognizes exceptional and enduring contributions to the welfare of USSOCOM’s wounded, ill and injured service members, veterans, and their families.

This year’s recipient, David Winters, was recognized for more than 14 years as President of the Black Dagger Military Hunt Club, providing outdoor expeditions for severely ill, injured vets, and active-duty service members.

“Our family has a rich and long history of service to our nation. My father was a Vietnam veteran and served 24 years in the Air Force. My brother was an Army veteran whose life was ended in a training accident in Korea,” Winter said. “I myself served 20 years in the Air Force and just want to continue to give back to those that have served and then are serving.”

His non-profit was inspired when the Care Coalition was stood up by then commander SOCOM Gen. Doug Brown.

“We actually thought of starting the Hunt club when General Brown stood up the Care Coalition we started working with some of the early wounded in their program. We met Brian Brennan, a double leg amputee and that is really what got started in 2010. In 2012 we started our 501 C3 because it was too expensive out of pocket volunteer nonprofit and takes a salary,” said Winters. “Our nonprofits mission and philosophy are to get veterans connected, not only to the outdoors but to a caring community.

We feel when veterans are isolated and are not connected. They have more of a chance of having issues. Additionally, our niche is paralyzed and blind veterans, we are community partner with James Haley, VA hospital, spinal cord injury, unit and their adaptive sports program.”

Reflecting on receiving the Patriot Award Winters takes great pride in what his organization does for the wounded, ill and injured service members.

“Winning the Patriot Award means a lot to me. But most importantly it is not from what I have done for what a large and caring group of volun6

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Photoa by Gunnery Sgt. Demtrius Munnerlyn,

(Top) U.S. Special Operations Command’s Warrior Care Program (Care Coalition) held its Warrior Care Conference in Orlando, Florida, April 9-11. More than 330 people participated.

(Above) Air Force Lt. Gen. Sean Ferrell, deputy commander USSOCOM, presents the USSOCOM Patriot Award to Ryan and Jillian winters, the children of this year’s USSOCOM Warrior Care Program’s Patriot Award, David Winters, during the 2024 Warrior Care Conference April 10. teers and sponsors have provided over the past 13 years. When someone comes out and sees what we do, they get it immediately,” said Winters.

The Warrior Care Program (Care Coalition) focuses on wounded, ill and injured USSOCOM service members and their families. Established in 2005 to provide special operations forces wounded, ill, or injured service members and their families advocacy after life changing events, to navigate through recovery, rehabilitation, and reintegration as quickly as possible, strengthening SOF readiness. It also provides career transition assistance when necessary. The program currently provides advocacy and care coordination services to more than 25,000 people.

STUDER From Page 5

“I had cut my throat wide open while eating, two weeks prior to the competition,” says Studer. “I could have used that as an excuse and chose not to do the show, but I made the choice to go for it.”

Studer found himself in a precarious situation. With ill preparation he attempted to complete the competition.

“I lost my first show badly,” says Studer. “I didn’t complete the required poses and didn’t even stand on stage correctly to be judged.”

Studer felt the loss as any individual would. Knowing that months of training had culminated in a disappointing outcome, he developed a unique perspective on the path ahead.

“I could have left embarrassed and told myself I would never do it again, but that’s why I love this sport,” Studer said. “The excuses are always there for you to use, but you’re never really losing. I knew it would be a hard road to being a true competitive bodybuilder, but I also knew it was something I could do.”

Whether it be in the gym, on a stage, or in a uniform Studer knows that his approach to adversity impacts those around him. As a leader, he had to show that he was willing to exceed expectations so that others may do the same.

“Major Studer continually lifts up all those around him with positivity

and regardless of the changes happening the constant is that he will be there when you need him,” says Capt. Charles Woods, Air Force Special Operations Command deputy A33 director. “Studer is a disciplined leader that isn’t afraid to put the work in, acting as a sensor for all those around him and ensuring they’re at 100 percent to get after the mission.”

At his following competitions, Studer began connecting with the other competitors. Through these connections, he gained an even deeper appreciation for the sport.

“We all had worked so hard for our chance to stand on stage for a minute or two,” says Studer. “Every one of them had a great story. It was a special connection to have when you know they’ve been working at this for so long.

Just putting themselves out there takes courage.”

As Studer prepares to compete in his next competition, he leans on the lessons he’s learned throughout his time bodybuilding and continues to push himself to make his dreams a reality.

“Understanding how to find results and embracing the extensive effort it will take is something I have learned greatly from this sport,” says Studer.

“I do my best to motivate others and help them out regardless of what their fitness goals are. Your body is the first quiet statement you make about yourself, so take control and don’t let it say something you don’t want it to.”

Be sure to visit the official 6th Air Refueling Wing website at www.macdill.af.mil

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Tampa civic leaders explore three unique AF missions

by Senior Airman Lauren Cobin 6th Air Refueling Wing Public Affairs

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wenty-eight of Tampa’s influential business owners, chamber of commerce members, program managers and civic leaders took flight with th e 6th Air Refueling Wing to explore three unique Air Force missions.

Beginning at MacDill Air Force Base, Florida on April 11, 2024, the group participated in a multi-base field trip to strengthen relations and bolster community support.

Civic leader programs are meant to educate local leaders on the similarities and differences of military and civilian operations and serve as a way to reach and inform the public on each base’s unique missions. This year, the Tampa group traveled to Offutt AFB, Nebraska and Eglin AFB, Florida.

“The support we receive from our community is truly remarkable,” said Col. Adam Bingham, 6th ARW commander. “There are many areas within our mission that we couldn’t complete without the help of our community partners. These trips offer a chance to give back to them and deepen their understanding of our mission. Their firsthand experiences enable them to better communicate the importance of our work to the Tampa community.”

During the first portion of the trip, civic leaders observed a KC-135 Stratotanker piloted by Bingham on the way to Offutt AFB. In the boom-pod, the group laid beside Senior Airman Nathan Zelasko, 91st Air Refueling Squadron boom operator, to witness aerial refueling and the talent of young airmen working in mission essential roles.

“What a wonderful experience and time spent with th is awesome group,” said Jose Bello, Encore Bank community outreach officer. “It may surprise you, but I haven’t stopped talking about our experience.”

Once the group landed in Nebraska, the Tampa leaders received an in-depth tour of a RC-135S Cobra Ball and met with members of the 55th Wing leadership team to learn more about the Air Combat Command mission.

The following day brought the civic leaders to the 96th Test Wing located at Eglin AFB on April 12, 2024.

The 96th TW is responsible for operating 38 modified test aircraft and managing 120,000 square miles of over-water test ranges, plus facilities in six different states. The Tampa leaders were able to experience firsthand how the base executes developmental tests and evaluations to enable the warfighter to put weapons on target.

Upon their return to MacDill, leaders shared their gratitude for the opportunity.

“Thank you for this amazing experience,” said Kevin Preast, chief commercial officer of Tampa Bay Lightning. “I am very grateful to have been a part of this trip.”

MacDill AFB will continue to uphold their relationship with local civic leaders to increase public awareness of missions, policies, and programs of the 6th ARW and the Department of Defense.

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Photos by Airman 1st Class Sterling Sutton

(Above) A group of civic leaders from the Tampa Bay area pose with service members assigned to the 55th Wing and the 6th Air Refueling Wing, for a photo near a KC-135 Stratotanker at Offutt Air Force Base, Nebraska, April 11. The civic leader group toured various units at the Nebraska base during multi-base field trip to strengthen relations and bolster community support.

(Far left) A pilot assigned to the 50th Air Refueling Squadron, explains flight procedures to civic leaders from the Tampa Bay area during a tour at MacDill Air Force Base April 11. The civic leader group toured multiple bases to strengthen relations and bolster community support.

(Left) A group of civic leaders from the Tampa Bay area tour the 55th Wing at Offutt Air Force Base, Nebraska, April 11. The civic leader group toured various units at the Nebraska base during multi-base field trip to strengthen relations and bolster community support.

DREAM From Page 3

his life. Soon after, he was joined by his wife, Hu Chu Wen, and together they began to pursue the American dream.

“His difficult journey to America made my father truly appreciative of the opportunities that came in America,” said Zhang.

Persevering through adversity, his parents eventually owned and operated a small restaurant where he said he learned the values necessary to succeed. Zhang and his sister, Mandy, grew up in the back of the restaurant, while his parents ran the restaurant in the front. Eventually, the cultural and language barriers proved insurmountable, and the restaurant shut down.

Despite struggling to make ends meet, his parents never seemed bitter.

“Growing up with a language barrier was extremely difficult, but the sacrifices made by my parents in the hope of a brighter future allowed me to pursue the higher education that they were not able to receive,” said Zhang.

After finishing his doctorate at OSU, he began to work as a civilian pharmacist until an emotional moment in 2020 changed his outlook.

“I remember watching in anguish as the nation experienced hardships,” said Zhang. “This ignited a fire within me to serve the country that gave so much to my father and the rest of my family.”

Despite all the accolades and the financial security his civilian job offered, he knew he would not feel fulfilled until he could give back in a manner that would benefit and defend a country that had done so much for him and his family.

“My family initially questioned my decision to leave my stable job, but their mind quickly

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Photo by Kenneth Abbate

U.S. Air Force Capt. Mason Zhang, 60th Diagnostics & Therapeutics Squadron inpatient pharmacy chief, performs warfarin monitoring on a patient at David Grant USAF Medical Center at Travis Air Force Base, California, April 16. changed after they understood my initiative,” said Zhang. “Today, my family has taken pride in my service and professional accomplishments. The positive changes in the community fuels me to strive for excellence in all aspects of my service. Knowing that I am making a difference, not only in the lives of my patients, but our nation as a whole, drives me to continue.”

Zhang commissioned into the U.S. Air Force Biomedical Sciences Corp shortly after deciding to join and has served nearly four years. He is

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extremely proud of his service, noting he could never imagine the impact he could make so early on in his career.

“As an American, I feel a deep sense of duty to protect and serve my country,” he said. “The opportunities I’ve received drive me to give back and enable others to achieve the same successes that I’ve experienced. Full of gratitude, I look forward to continuing my service for a country that has afforded me and my family many opportunities to thrive.”

C-130J From Page 2

7th Bomb Wing Public Affairs photo

Airmen from Dyess Air Force Base, Texas pose for a group photo after successfully completing a Max Endurance Operation at Andersen Air Force Base, Guam, April 20.

This operation, dubbed Hazard Leap, highlighted the wing’s extended range capabilities, and established a new standard in operational endurance. about 17,000 pounds of fuel, which translates to roughly four extra hours of flying.”

In May 2023, the 317th Airlift Wing became the first C-130J unit in Air Mobility Command to experiment with external fuel tanks. The integration of external fuel tanks not only enhances the Wing’s ability to reach remote locations in a single hop but also provides the flexibility to carry extra fuel to offload for the joint force in austere environments.

The purpose of the MEO, as Santori described, is to fly as far as possible with the external tanks, refuel only once, minimizing ground time and maximizing range. The preparation involved careful planning of the flight route, analyzing wind patterns, and devising contingency plans for unforeseen circumstances such as thunderstorms or modified flight paths.

Reflecting on the significance of completing Hazard Leap, Capt. Santori emphasized its implications moving forward. “Knowing that we have the capability to rapidly deploy and reach distant theaters within a shorter time frame, expands the expectation of C-130s,” she stated.

“The successful completion of Hazard Leap is a testament to our team’s dedication and the remarkable capabilities of the C-130J Super Hercules,” said Maj. Alex Leach, Mission Commander and 40th AS assistant director of operations. “This operation set a new standard for our squadron and this airframe; it serves as a stepping-stone for future missions.”

Building on the success of Hazard Leap, the 317th AW is now preparing for Exercise Hazard Spear, scheduled to run until May 4, 2024. This exercise is set to be a pivotal training event for the Wing, with a focus on declaring Initial Operational Capability for multiple Accelerated Mission Sets in the Indo-Pacific region and validating its ability to rapidly integrate with the joint force.

In tandem with HAZARD SPEAR, the 317th AW will integrate with the 4th Marines in Guam and support Marine Aircraft Group 24 and MWSS-174 during Exercise BALIKATAN 2024 in the Philippines. This collaboration underscores the Wing’s commitment to strengthening interoperability with allied and partner forces in the region.

As the 317th Airlift Wing prepares for Hazard Spear, the Maximum Endurance Operation showcases the vital role of continued innovation and excellence, bolstering regional operations and demonstrating readiness in the Indo-Pacific region.

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COMMUNITY

EVENTS

National Golf Day Tournament The Bay Palms Golf Complex will be hosting an 1800 Yard Tournament Saturday on the South Course. This is a two-player, scramble event. Advanced green fees are $20, Active duty/retirees $40, civilians $50; price includes green fees, cart, range balls and lunch. Stop by the Pro Shop to sign up by Friday.

For more information, visit macdillfss.com/wp-content/uploads/NtlGolfDay_24.pdf.

Family Fun Night Join the fun at SeaScapes on May 10 from 5– 8 p.m. for a delightful fiesta-themed Family Fun Night. It’s a perfect opportunity for families to bond, create lasting memories and an exclusive kid’s buffet filled with mini tacos, nachos and sweet treats.

Visit macdillfss.com/seascapes/ for more details.

Summer camps & field trips Children 9–18 won’t want to miss all the exciting Youth Center summer camps and field trips this summer break. These activities can provide a fun and educational experience for pre-teens/teens while helping them develop social skills, teamwork, and leadership skills.

Current Youth Center monthly members can register using their existing CYPIMS log-in or in person now. All non-members can register in person. Non-members must contact the Youth Center at 828-7956 or email 6fss.fsy.yp@us.af.mil to have a CYPIMS account created. To view the full list of camps and field trips being offered this summer, visit macdillfss.com/wp-content/uploads/ YC-Summer-Camps-2024-Booklet_ LowRes.pdf.

Photo by Senior Airman Zachary Foster

Night landing

A U.S. Air Force KC-135 Stratotanker assigned to MacDill Air Force Base’s 91st Air Refueling Squadron lands at an undisclosed location within the U.S. Central Command area of responsibility, April 20. The U.S. maintains a highly agile fighting force, which leverages the most advanced training and platforms to dominate the warfighting landscape for the long-term security and stability of the region.

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. www.macdill.af.mil/chapel

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

Protestant services - Sunday - 11 a.m. Contact the Cha-

pel at 828-3621 or email at 6ARW.HCADMIN@us.af.mil for inquiries regarding Protestant religious education.

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

Islamic Service - Friday 1:30 p.m. (space reserved) Other Faith Groups - Please contact the Chapel at 813) 828-3621 or via email at 6ARW.HCADMIN@us.af.mil

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 u Thursday, May 2, 2024 u WWW.MACDILLTHUNDERBOLT.COM u 13

AMC

From Page 3

“It doesn’t matter where you come from,” Minihan said. “What matters is that when we come together, we are one.”

According to Minihan, building a force that is resilient and full of multi-capable, diverse Airmen dedicated to living like warriors provides AMC a warfighting advantage over adversaries that is vital to the future Joint Force.

The Department of the Air Force’s dedication to provide an equitable, accessible and inclusive environment for all service members and employees is exemplified through various initiatives like the Indigenous Nations Equality Team. INET’s mission is to advocate for American Indian and Alaska Natives through policy changes, recruitment, retention and community outreach.

“It doesn’t matter if you’re a traditional indigenous person or not,” said Tech. Sgt. Darrell Charlee, Air Force Inspection Agency client systems non-commissioned officer in charge.

“It doesn’t matter if you grew up on the reservation or in the city. Our indigenous ancestors have fought and died for your existence, for my

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existence, and I want to honor them.”

During the event, the Air Force Heartland of America Band performed, keynote speakers from the Air Force and the local Lakota tribe delivered remarks and students from the Standing Rock Community School met with Airmen from various units across the AF to learn about science, technology, engineering and mathematics opportunities.

Students and tribal community members also had the opportunity to tour two UH-1N Huey helicopters and witness a KC-135 Stratotanker and B-52H Stratofortress flyover during the engagement. Members of local Lakota drum groups performed the Lakota grand entry, flag and victory songs.

The evening ended with a traditional Lakota meal shared between service members and the local tribal community.

“I’m very thankful that I get to retire from the Air Force and know that I left it a better force,” said Master Sgt. Frances Dupris, 319th Combat Training Squadron Advanced Training Course director.

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Photo by Airman 1st Class Matthew Arachikavitz

Gen. Mike Minihan, commander of Air Mobility Command, receives gratitude from Indigenous Nations Equality Team during a Lakota tribal engagement in Fort Yates, North Dakota, April 18.