Thunderbolt 09/08/2022

Vol. 50, No. 36

Thursday, September 8, 2022

News/Features: page 3 Reflecting on Afghan Airlift

News/Features: page 3 Warrior Games conclude

Week in photos: page 4 Images from the week

Gen. Fenton takes helm of USSOCOM - page 8 Photo by Gunnery Sgt. Eric Alabiso

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

U.S. Army Gen.Bryan P. Fenton, right, U.S. Special Operations Command commander, passes the command colors to Command Sgt. Maj. Shane Shorter, left, USSOCOM senior enlisted leader, after receiving the colors from Secretary of Defense LloydJ. Austin III during a change of command ceremony for USSOCOM at Tampa, Fla., Aug. 30, 2022. Army Gen. Richard D. Clarke relinquished command to Gen. Fenton, who previously served as the Commander of Joint SpecialOperations Command, Fort Bragg, N.C.

NEWS/FEATURES CSAF visits Indo-Pacific, stresses importance of DoD’s priority theater

by Tech. Sgt. Hailey Haux Headquarters, Pacific Air Forces Public Affairs HICKAM AIR FORCE BASE, Hawaii (AFNS)—U.S. Air Force Chief of Staff Gen. CQ Brown, Jr. recently traveled to locations across the Department of Defense’s priority theater, reinforcing U.S. and U.S. Air Force commitment to a free and open Indo-Pacific and recognizing the contributions of Airmen and families serving there.

Brown was able to meet Airmen face-to-face at six wings to discuss his strategic approach, Accelerate Change or Lose and empower Airmen at all levels.

“Good enough today will fail tomorrow,” Brown said at an all-call with the 18th Wing at Kadena Air Base, Japan. “As Airmen, we need to integrate and accelerate the changes necessary to develop our talent and maintain our advantage. Get comfortable with being uncomfortable; we cannot rest on our laurels … we must change and evolve to meet the threats we face today.”

During each stop, Brown hosted an all-call and participated in smallgroup meals with Airmen. Visiting base facilities and participating in meetings and briefings at each installation gave him a first-hand look at the hard work Airmen do to keep the mission going.

“I couldn’t be prouder of what we’re able to do,” Brown said during an all-call with the 15th Wing at Joint Base Pearl Harbor Hickam. “That’s why I love our mission statement: fly, fight and win … Airpower, anytime, See VISIT, Page 7

Photo by Senior Airman Trevor Gordnier

Col. Joshua Wood, 51st Fighter Wing commander, greets Air Force Chief of Staff Gen. CQ Brown, Jr. at Osan Air Base, South Korea, Aug. 12.

Brown’s visit came as an effort to reinforce the U.S. commitment to a free and open Indo-Pacific region.

Be sure to visit the official 6th Air Refueling Wing website at www.macdill.af.mil 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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Everything advertised in this publication shall be made available for purchase, use, or patronage without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, marital status, physical handicap, political affiliation or any other non-merit factor of the purchaser, user, or patron.

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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 One year later, historic Afghan airlift inspires pride, reflection

by Charles Pope Secretary of the Air Force Public Affairs ARLINGTON, Va. (AFNS)—One year later, the raw numbers used to capture the U.S. Air Force’s effort during the monumental, yet at times imperfect, withdrawal from Afghanistan create a portrait that is remarkable in its scope, reach and complexity.

While the numbers tell a story about the largest non-combatant evacuation airlift in U.S. history, numbers alone do not capture the full story.

They cannot articulate the actions and bravery of individ- ual Airmen, the Joint Force and allies; they do not identify individual decisions that saved lives; they cannot adequately describe the danger surrounding all of it and the important lessons learned.

“During a time of great uncertainty, our Total Force summoned courage to provide hope and deliver relief,” said Secretary of the Air Force Frank Kendall.

“Our aircrews were among the first to respond, and their efforts would go on to surpass the historic Berlin Airlift. Concurrently, our ‘One Team,’ with the help of the international community, built a support plan to reSee AIRLIFT, Page 12

Photo by Airman 1st Class Alexcia Givens

U.S. Army Pfc. Jared Stevens, 2nd Cavalry Regiment infantryman, plays with children during Operation Allies Refuge at Ramstein Air Base, Germany, Sept. 13, 2021. OAR has been the largest humanitarian evacuation airlift to date in U.S. history.

Not all injuries are visible

by Michael Bottoms USSOCOM Office of Communication

ORLANDO, FL—Lt. Cmdr. Alanna Devlin Ball formerly assigned to SEAL Team TWO as a naval supply officer is competing in her first DoD Warrior Games in the swimming, rowing, and powerlifting competitions.

Ball, a cancer survivor, began having headaches over a several year period.

“I had been with SEAL Team TWO for about a year and for three years before that I had been at the Pentagon and Bahrain. I had these headaches, and I would have to leave during the duty day. I just dealt with it and went back to work,” Ball said. “After a year at SEAL Team TWO it got worse, so the doctor ordered an MRI, and it came back that I had a mass in the right frontal lobe of my brain. That stopped everything in terms of work. I had the mass removed about a month later and was diagnosed with brain cancer.”

She remained committed to serving with SEAL Team TWO but decided to get further treatment in her hometown of Boston.

“I was still with the Team, but I decided to get treated in Boston at the Dana Farber Cancer Institute since I was raised in Boston.

See GAMES, Page 10

Photo by Kevin Smith

Lt. Cdr. Alanna Ball (retired) competes in the indoor rowing competition at the DoD Warrior Games Aug. 25, Orlando, Florida. The DoD Warrior Games are composed of over 200 wounded, ill and injured service members and veteran athletes, competing in 12 adaptive sporting events Aug. 19-28, 2022, at ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex at Disney in Lake Buena Vista, Florida.

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WEEK IN PHOTOS

Photo by Airman 1st Class Joshua Hastings

U.S. Air Force Capt. Jaymes Trimbe, 50th Air Refueling Squadron pilot, walks on the flight line during the 6th Air Refueling Wing’s Agile Combat Employment capstone exercise at Joint Base Charleston, South Carolina, Aug. 23. The ACE concept underpins the Air Force’s ability to mitigate the risks of adversarial technological advances through maneuverability and speed to prevail in conflict. The capstone exercise included 72-hours of continuous air refueling operations and a historic 56-hour KC-135 flight in a simulated contested environment focused on a notional theater of operations.

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Photo by Airman 1st Class Joshua Hastings

Photo by Airman 1st Class Joshua Hastings

U.S. Air Force Tech. Sgt. Christian Cummings, an aircrew flight equipment specialist assigned to the 6th Operations Support Squadron, inspects a Scot-385 quick don mask at Bangor Air National Guard Base, Maine, Aug. 25. Aircrew flight equipment specialists manage, perform, and schedule inspections, maintenance, and adjustments of assigned aircrew flight equipment.

U.S. Air Force Senior Airman James Michalak, 6th Aircraft Maintenance Squadron crew chief, conducts hot pit refueling for a KC-135 Stratotanker aircraft assigned to the 6th Air Refueling Wing during an Agile Combat Employment capstone exercise at McGee-Tyson Air National Guard Base, Tennessee, Aug. 25. The ACE concept underpins the Air Force’s ability to mitigate the risks of adversarial technological advances through maneuverability and speed to prevail in conflict.

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NEWS/FEATURES

Airman’s innovation saves time and money

by Airman 1st Class Alvaro Villagomez 100th Air Refueling Wing Public Affairs RAF MILDENHALL, United Kingdom (AFNS)—Thousands of hours are spent each year removing and installing a boom cover on a KC-135 Stratotanker aircraft – hours that could be used elsewhere. One 100th Maintenance Squadron Airman has invented a new boom cover tool that has the potential to save the U.S. Air Force 40,000 man-hours and approximately $1 million per year.

“I noticed as soon as I got to Mildenhall that removing and installing the boom cover was tedious and time consuming,” said Airman 1st Class Jacob Helzer, 100th MXS hydraulics maintenance journeyman.

“Removing the cover the conventional way involves calling the Aerospace Ground Equipment backshop for an aircraft stand and requires two Airmen and a substantial amount of time.”

The current conventional method hinders daily operations, whereas the innovative solution Helzer created is easier, takes less time and lessens the impact on the flow of operations.

See INNOVATION, Page 14

Photo by Airman 1st Class Alvaro Villagomez

Airman 1st Class Jacob Helzer, 100th Maintenance Squadron hydraulics maintenance journeyman, holds the first prototype of the Boom Cover Tool at RAF Mildenhall, United Kingdom, July 28, 2022. Helzer is the mind behind the Boom Cover Tool that enables Airmen to install and remove a boom cover off a KC-135 Stratotanker aircraft in less than two minutes.

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Save with MacDill’s Transportation Incentive Program

by 6th Comptroller Squadron Financial Services Office

Have you heard your friends and coworkers talk about going to finance to get their free bus passes and not know what they are talking about?

If you are a Department of Defense employee and have not signed up for MacDill’s Transportation Incentive Program, you are missing a benefit that could save you hundreds of dollars a month in fuel and toll costs.

Currently, MacDill has more than 1,500 personnel who take advantage of a daily, hassle-free express bus ride or vanpool, which is 100% paid for by Uncle Sam. Do we have your attention yet?

The TIP has its origins in Executive Order 13150, which seeks to reduce traffic congestion, fuel consumption and emissions by military members and federal employees by mandating a public transportation program that offers assistance with commuting costs.

The TIP provides free monthly express HARTline bus passes to commuters who live in the Brandon, Valrico, Riverview and Fishawk areas east of Tampa.

For HARTline “Park-n-Ride” locations, visit http://www.gohart.org/Pages/maps-park-ride.aspx For express bus schedules within Hillsborough county, visit www.gohart. org and click on “Maps and Schedules,” and then “South Tampa Limited Express” For those who live in other places in the greater Tampa area, TIP also offers a vanpool program. The vanpool program provides commuters, in groups of five or more, funding to secure a passenger van for their daily

commute. For information on the vanpool program visit www.tampabayrideshare.org/vanpool.

There are a few stipulations to the TIP program. Participants may not seek personal financial gain through the trade or sale of bus passes or vanpool transportation vouchers. And TIP applications shall be based solely on costs associated with the use of a qualified mode of transportation to and from MacDill in conjunction with employment by the Department of Defense.

The following are eligible for TIP benefits: 1) DoD active duty military members 2) DoD Reserve military members including both Reservists and National Guard Members on active duty status 3) DoD Federal civilian employees 4) DoD NAF personnel The TIP program is managed by the 6th Comptroller Squadron, Financial Services Office in Bldg. 147 on Hillsborough Loop.

After identifying the service or bus route that will best serve you, please e-mail finance.services@macdill.af.mil to get a copy of the application.

Applications must be returned in person so eligibility requirements can be verified using the member’s DoD-issued ID card. Applications can be dropped off on any duty day and are processed at the end of each month.

Riders typically can pick up their bus pass/vanpool vouchers by the third week of the month after they apply.

For more information, please contact the 6th Comptroller Squadron Financial Services Office customer service at 828-5377.

MacDill at HPCON BRAVO

Effective Sept. 1, 2022, MacDill AFB transitioned to Health Protection Condition (HPCON) Bravo. HPCON BRAVO and MASK WEAR: Due to the decrease in COVID-19 cases and hospital admissions, in coordination with the base Public Health Emergency Officer (PHEO), the MacDill installation commander has directed MacDill AFB to HPCON Bravo and mask wear optional.

Please note that many of our military families will be required to remain in masks due to their unique situation. We kindly ask that you remain courteous and respectful.

EXCEPTION: All Veterinary and Base Clinic visitors including those visiting Sabal Park will be required to wear a mask. While on MacDill AFB, all personnel should maintain strict hygiene measures in accordance with CDC guidelines.

Service members will abide by current guidelines for quarantine and isolation. If you are given a “Notice of Isolation” memorandum signed by the installation’s PHEO, due to illness or positive COVID-19 test results, you are not allowed to leave your residence except to receive required medical care. You should have no person-to-person contact with any non-isolation individuals except as approved by the PHEO.

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VISIT

From Page 2

anywhere. It’s not sometime in someplace; it’s anytime, anywhere, when our nation calls. We do that because of all of you.”

While in the Indo-Pacific, Brown traveled to Singapore, the Philippines, and the South Korea, to meet with counterparts and other senior defense officials, as well as U.S. ambassadors and embassy staff.

In Singapore, he visited with Singapore Minister for Defence Dr. Ng Eng Hen; Singapore Armed Forces Chief of Defence Force Army Lt. Gen. Melvyn Ong; Republic of Singapore Air Force Chief of Air Force Maj. Gen. Kelvin Khong; and U.S. Ambassador Jonathan Kaplan.

“Strong bilateral relationships like that of the U.S. and Singapore are cultivated over time and are based on communication and transparency and shared values and interests,” Brown said.

In the Philippines, he met with Armed Forces of the Philippines Chief of Staff Lt. Gen. Bartolome Vicente Bacarro; Philippine Air Force Command General Lt. Gen. Connor Anthony D. Canlas, Sr.; and U.S. Ambassador MaryKay Loss Carlson.

“The U.S.-Philippine alliance is strong; we support a resilient and independent Philippines with the capability to protect its sovereignty and defend its security interests on its own terms,” he said.

In addition to visiting two U.S. air bases, while in the South Korea, Brown met with South Korea Air Force General Jung Sang-hwa and discussed how continued close collaboration and commitment to strengthening readiness will further enhance the U.S.-ROK alliance.

Brown also visited the 345th Wing at Eielson Air Force Base, Alaska; the 36th Wing at Andersen Air Force Base, Guam; the 8th Fighter Wing at Kunsan AB and the 51st Fighter Wing at Osan AB, South Korea. His trip was part of a series of visits by Department of the Air Force leaders to locations in U.S. Indo-Pacific Command focused on Airmen, allies and partners.

Photo by Airman 1st Class Sebastian Romawac

Air Force Chief of Staff Gen. CQ Brown, Jr., speaks with Airmen during an all-call at Kadena Air Base, Japan, Aug. 11. Brown emphasized the value of strengthening relationships with regional allies and partners, while maintaining a long-term “campaigning” mindset toward upholding regional stability.

Air Force Chief of Staff Gen. CQ Brown, Jr. is greeted by Col. Henry “Wolf” Jeffress, 8th Fighter Wing commander at Kunsan Air Base, South Korea, Aug. 12.

Photo by Staff Sgt. Isaiah J. Soliz

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DoD photo by U.S. Navy Petty Officer 2nd Class Alexander Kubitza

Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff; Army Gen. Mark A. Milley; outgoing U.S. Special Operations Command (USSOCOM) Commander Army Gen. Richard Clarke, and incoming USSOCOM Commander Army Gen. Bryan Fenton, stand for the National Anthem during a USSOCOM Change of Command ceremony at the Tampa Bay Convention Center Aug. 30.

U.S. Special Operations Command Holds Change of Command Ceremony

by Sgt. Maj. Jason Baker USSOCOM Public Affairs

U

.S. Army Gen. Bryan P. Fenton assumed command of U.S. Special Operations Command from outgoing commander Gen. Richard D. Clarke during a change of command ceremony at the Tampa Convention Center Aug. 30.

General Fenton previously served as the commander of Joint Special Operations Command in Fort Bragg, N.C. Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin III officiated the ceremony and Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, U.S. Army Gen. Mark A. Milley was the honorary guest speaker. Several senior defense leaders from the U.S. and international military partners; allies; USSOCOM’s component commanders; and other distinguished visitors were also in attendance.

“Bryan Fenton is the right leader,” said Milley. “He is the right leader at the right time, with right skills to lead this command. Like Rich Clarke, Bryan Fenton has the perfect blend of character, competence, and courage. He has all the right expertise and knowledge to take what Rich has done and take it to the next level.”

Fenton assumes command during an important transition for Special Operations, as large-scale deployments and operations in Afghanistan and Iraq have mostly ceased. Competition with Russia and China are the focus of current national strategy, as Special Operations Forces will be expected to build upon the global SOF network it forged during the Global War On Terror-era to support global integrated deterrence.

“General Fenton has served in and commanded at every level of Special Operations Forces,” said Austin. “He’s been a part of operations in nearly every region around the world and General Fenton has built up extensive expertise in the IndoPacific, In fact, he managed to get four consecutive assignments in Hawaii and it culminated in General Fenton becoming the first Special Operations officer to serve as the deputy commander at U.S. Indo-Pacific Command.”

Secretary Austin went on to say that Fenton embodies the first SOF truth – humans are more important than hardware, by focusing on people and creating an

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environment where people want to perform.

“In a command where ‘humans are more important than hardware,’ this is a day to pause for a moment and recognize the exceptional men and women who make up the United States Special Operations Command along with their incredible achievements,” said Fenton. “A day to pause, and note, that these SOCOM teammates – these quiet professionals who work tirelessly at home and abroad to keep our nation safe – are the comparative and competitive advantage of this command.”

“This team has been – and will continue to be – called upon to protect our country,” continued Fenton. “Even more so now at this crucial time with a National Defense Strategy outlining challenges with China, Russia, Iran, Al Qaeda and ISIS, to name but a few. Yet your Special Operations Forces ‘were born’ for challenges just like these. It’s in our DNA… has been since the beginning.”

Clarke leaves USSOCOM after commanding for three and a half years and retires after more than 38 years of military service. He commanded at every level of the 75th Ranger Regiment through his career and deployed to combat several times, serving in key leadership positions throughout the Joint Airborne and SOF community.

“Congratulations, Bryan. No one is more ready to lead our Special Operations community than you,” said Clarke, welcoming his replacement. “With a depth of experience in the Indo-Pacific, you’re already poised for our most pressing security challenges. I have watched you lead with enthusiasm and positivity. You have the vision, you have the experience, and most of all, you live and breathe our ‘1st SOF Truth: Humans are more important than hardware.’”

“Our people are without question the unmatched advantage of this command,” continued Clarke. “They’re innovative, they’re problem-solvers, and they are absolutely committed to keeping Americans safe at home and our Nation free.”

USSOCOM develops and employs fully capable SOF to conduct global special operations and activities as part of the Joint Force to support Combatant Command operations and campaigns against state and non-state actors to protect and advance U.S. policies and objectives.

Photo by Gunnery Sgt. Eric Alabiso

(Above) General Clarke relinquished command to General Fenton, who will assume command as the 13th Commander of USSOCOM after previously serving as the commander of Joint Special Operations Command, Fort Bragg, N.C. (Left) Incoming U.S. Special Operations Command Commander (USSOCOM) Army Gen. Bryan Fenton speaks during a USSOCOM Change of Command ceremony at the Tampa Bay Convention Center Aug. 30.

Photo by Staff Sgt. Ashley Tsoi

GAMES From Page 3

My husband is also active duty and was on a ship, but his command allowed him to accompany me during my treatment. So, we packed up three dogs and stayed with family there,” she said. “I went through about ten weeks of chemo and radiation and then went back to Virginia Beach back to the Team and became part of the USSOCOM Warrior Care Program.

I would stay on a pill-based chem for another year and a half. Unfortunately, I was unable to deploy with my team which was frustrating.”

While she was still receiving treatment, she was contacted by Marina Letourneau who is the USSOCOM Warrior Care Program Recovery Care Coordinator assigned to Naval Special Warfare Group TWO. Letourneau asked Ball if she wanted to go to USSOCOM’s DoD Warrior Games selection camp.

“I did not even know what the DoD Warrior Games were. I had been in the Navy for quite a while. Marina explained what the games were, and it sounded like fun. I could concentrate on something other than my treatment,” said Ball. “I swam my whole life competitively, so the swimming competition was a definite for me. The rowing and powerlifting were fun too; so, I will compete in those as well.”

In 2020, the Warrior Care Program encouraged her to try out for Team USSOCOM at their selection camp held in Tampa, Florida.

“I had been training everyday throughout radiation and chemotherapy treatment so I knew I could do it. I tried all the sports and ultimately was selected to compete in swimming, rowing, and powerlifting events for the

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Courtesy photo

Team Navy and Team Marine Corps compete in the wheelchair basketball bronze medal match during the 2022 Warrior Games, Aug. 25. The Warrior Games are composed of over 200 wounded, ill and injured service members and veteran athletes, competing in 12 adaptive sporting events Aug. 19-28, at the ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex2022 DoD Warrior Games Wheelchair Basketball Gold Medal Game in Orlando, Florida. games,” Ball said. “Participating in this camp enabled me and my husband to focus on something other than the immense physical, psychological, and emotional effects my surgery and treatment had on me. The Warrior Games represent an exceptional display of motivation and perseverance, and I am excited and grate-

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ful to represent Team USSOCOM.” Although she was enduring a traumatic time in her life, she expressed gratitude for the USSOCOM Warrior Care Program for helping her navigate her healthcare.

“The USSOCOM Warrior Care Program has See GAMES, Page 11

GAMES From Page 10

provided me and my family with amazing support and empathy, while providing incredible opportunities to explore and experience alternative avenues to both heal and thrive,” Ball said. “The people in the USSOCOM Warrior Care Program also assisted me with my USSOCOM fellowship and the medical board process, providing insight and guidance, from start to finish.”

Ball expressed not all the competitors at the DoD Warrior Games will show visible injuries and some of those competing will have hidden conditions.

“One of the biggest things I have experienced is that people cannot always see an injury. You will see people in the DoD Warrior Games who do not show an injury, but there is a reason they are there.

It’s why I am there,” Ball said.

The DoD Warrior Games is held in Orlando, Florida Aug. 19 – 28.

Photo by U.S. Michael Bottoms

Lt. Cdr. Alanna Ball (retired) competes in the 50-meter breaststroke at the DoD Warrior Games Aug. 26, Orlando, Florida. Ball would go on to win the Gold Medal. The DoD Warrior Games are composed of over 200 wounded, ill and injured service members and veteran athletes, competing in 12 adaptive sporting events Aug. 19-28, at ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex at Disney in Lake Buena Vista, Florida.

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AIRLIFT From Page 3

ceive and give immediate care to the thousands who needed desperate help. It was during this difficult time, we were awed by the efforts of service members who risked everything, some even giving their lives, to help total strangers,” he said.

In broad strokes, the effort that came to be called Operation Allies Refuge was the largest non-combatant evacuation airlift in U.S. history.

“Our Airmen experienced circumstances unlike any they have faced before, yet their training, innovation, and compassion were evident throughout Operations Allies Refuge and Allies Welcome,” said Air Force Chief of Staff Gen. CQ Brown, Jr. “The secretary of Defense has acknowledged the withdrawal from Afghanistan was imperfect, but it does not diminish the historic feat our Airmen accomplished in transporting more than 124,000 people to safety and hope.”

Over 17 days, at the end of August 2021, nearly 800 civilian and military aircraft from more than 30 nations safely evacuated thousands of people, many of them desperate, from Afghanistan through a chaotic Hamid Karzai International Airport in Kabul. The airlift spanned nine countries, eight time zones, and more than 10 temporary safe havens. The withdrawal commenced around the clock at a withering pace, even as security outside the airport and, at times, on the flight line itself deteriorated.

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Photo by Staff Sgt. Brandon Cribelar

Afghan citizens rest in a U.S. Air Force C-17 Globemaster III after being evacuated from Hamid Karzai International Airport in Kabul, Afghanistan, Aug. 19, 2021. The U.S. Air Force conducted airlift operations to transport approximately 124,000 people from Kabul as part Operation Allies Refuge. The operation was one of the largest air evacuations of civilians in American history.

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A U.S. Air Force Airman assists an Afghan citizen aboard a C-17 Globemaster III during Operation Allies Refuge, Aug. 19, 2021. Approximately 124,000 Afghan citizens were evacuated from Kabul, Afghanistan, during OAR, one of the largest air evacuations of civilians in American history.

Photo by Staff Sgt. Brandon Cribelar

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B AY PA L M S G O L F C O U R S E

AGF A GF: $20, $2 20, All m military y: $40, Civilians: C $50 AGF: military:

Air Force Birthday TOURNAMENT TOURNAMENT

Force Support Squadron Services Effective as of 01 SEPT 2022

ADMINISTRATIVE SERVICES Common Access Card (CAC) - By Appointment Only or Mission Essential Actions (Initial CAC issue; lost CAC; PIN Reset; CAC expiring within 7 days; emergency hardships Retiree/Dependent ID Cards - 2 Kiosks available at the BX for renewals or by appointment only Passports - By Appointment Only Military Personnel Flight APF/NAF/CIV Personnel Office Manpower & Organization Office School Liaison/EFMP NAF Cashier Cage Private Org/Unit SM&W Funds Emergency Financial Assistance

Sat, 17 Sep

0800 0800 Shotgun Shotgun Start Start South South Course Course

2 Person Team, 6 Hole Mix Up, Non Handicapped Event.

Great Door Prizes & Prizes for the Winning Teams!

AGF: $20 • All Military: $40 • Civilians: $50

Holes 1-6 Best Ball • Holes 7-12 Modified Alternate Shot • Holes 13-18 Scramble PXG Putting Contest and Srixon/Cleveland Long Drive Contest – L u n c h P r o v i d e d F o l l ow i n g E v e n t – Stop by the Pro Shop to Sign Up & Pay. Deadline for Registration is 14 September

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Main Base Pool - Closed For Season FamCamp Marina - 1/2 or Full Day Boat/ Equipment Rentals, Snacks & Drinks Boat/RV Registration + Wet Slips Golf Course Arts & Crafts Center Bowling Information, Tickets & Travel DIY Auto Hobby Shop DIY Wood Shop Skeet Range Archery - by Reservations Only Car Wash/Resale Lot

READINESS/DEVELOPMENT Fitness Center Child Development Centers (CDCs) Family Child Care School Age Program Youth Center

EVENT SUPPORT Breakaway Event Center Theater

FOOD OPERATIONS DFAC Rickenbacker’s Cafe Brews of the Bay Bar FitStop Smoothie Bar (Fitness Center) (Open Sept 12) 8 Iron Grill (Golf Course) Boomers Bar & Grill (Breakaway Event Center) Hangar 6 Grill (Bowling Center) SeaScapes Bar - Friday nights only 1500-2000 AAFES Food Operations

Military & Family Readiness Center Open for walk-in customers and appointments.

Classes & Workshops are a mixture of virtual and in person.

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INNOVATION From Page 5

“One of the maintenance crew chiefs reached out because he knew I enjoy 3D printing and design and believed I could come up with a solution for the boom cover,” Helzer said. “I then came up with a prototype for a tool that could make the process much smoother.”

Tech Sgt. Steven Jakubowski said Helzer is always looking for ways to innovate and constantly asking questions to gain further knowledge.

“He spent a lot of his free time, outside of work, designing the boom cover tool,” Jakubowski said.

Helzer, using his skill and knowledge with 3D printing, created a prototype called the “Boom Cover Tool.” The tool was manufactured with Helzer’s 3D printer and resembles a butterfly net on the end of a retractable pole with a hoop mechanism that tightens and loosens the net covering on the opposite end.

“Once I created the prototype, I brought it to my section and tested it out,” Helzer said. “A 30-minute job became a one-minute job with the Boom Cover Tool.”

The Boom Cover Tool greatly reduces the number of man-hours needed every time a cover needs to be removed or installed on an aircraft and the cover itself better protects the boom pod during adverse weather conditions.

Each Boom Cover Tool costs roughly $200 to produce.

“The projected savings were calculated by him and I while submitting for Spark Tank by using the 2021 comptroller document for wages,” See INNOVATION, Page 16

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Photo by Airman 1st Class Alvaro Villagomez

Airman 1st Class Jacob Helzer, 100th Maintenance Squadron hydraulics maintenance journeyman, uses the Boom Cover Tool on a KC-135 Stratotanker aircraft at RAF Mildenhall, United Kingdom, July 22, 2022.

The Boom Cover Tool, created by Helzer, is expected to save 40,000 man-hours and $1 million annually.

MACDILL THUNDERBOLT

COMMUNITY

EVENTS

Air Force Birthday Golf Tour-nament Sept. 17 The Bay Palms Golf Complex is hosting a tournament on the South course to celebrate the Air Force’s 75th birthday! Register by Sept.

14 at the pro shop. Door prizes and lunch will be provided! Find more info at macdillfss.com/bay-palmsgolf-complex/ U.S. Air Force 75th Birthday The Air Force’s 75th Birthday is Sunday, Sept. 18 and facilities across MacDill will be celebrating the milestone with events, specials, and more Sept. 12 – 18. Disney ticket giveaways, scavenger hunts, lunch specials and, of course, cake.

Find the full list of facilities and events at macdillfss.com/af-birthday-celebration/ FitStop grand opening Sept. 12 A new smoothie bar is opening inside the Short Fitness Center on Monday, Sept. 12. The new FitStop Smoothies and More will offer fresh fruit smoothies and other menu items. They will be open Monday through Friday 6 a.m. – 2 p.m. for lunch on-the-go or for that after workout thirst.

Child & Youth Services on MacDill Find child care, after school care, give parents a break events, education meetings, school liaison and more by visiting macdillfss.com/ family-support/ Find more events at: macdillfss.com

Mutual security discussion!

Photo by U.S. Marine Corps Gunnery Sgt. Eric L. Alabiso II

On Aug. 25, CENTCOM commander General Michael “Erik” Kurilla met with Israeli Defense Minister Benny Gantz at the U.S. Central Command Headquarters to discuss security issues of mutual interest.

CHAPEL SCHEDULE Normal Hours- Monday - Friday - 9 a.m. to

Jewish - Monthly Lunch and Learn: For sched-

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

served)

3 p.m. After hours chaplain, call the Command Post at 828-4362/4361.

www.macdill.af.mil/chapel

ule & to join distro, please contact elimelach.estrin@us.af.mil

Islamic Service - Friday 1 p.m. (space reOther Faith Groups - Please contact the

Catholic (in-person) - Saturday - 5:30 p.m.

Chapel at (813) 828-3621 or via email at 6ARW. HCADMIN@us.af.mil

Protestant services - Sunday - 11 a.m.

MacDill’s Chapel website is: https://www.macdill. af.mil/chapel

(confession 4:30 p.m.) Sunday - 9:30 a.m. (confessions by appointment)

For more details and information, visit the Chapel Facebook page at http://www.facebook/6amwhc/ MACDILL THUNDERBOLT

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15

INNOVATION From Page 14

Jakubowski said.

“I did the math and the projected savings for the Air Force if they utilized the Boom Cover Tool for the entirety of the refueling fleet would be approximately $1 million and potentially 40,000 man-hours annually,” Helzer added.

In order to meet this goal, Helzer has been collaborating with the MXS fabrication flight to produce the test prototypes for each aircraft here.

“Once we have everything streamlined, we can move into the beta testing phase, which is roughly six months, then move on to scaling up for the entire KC-135 Stratotanker aircraft fleet,” Helzer said.

Moving forward, Helzer plans on developing a batch of tools for the local KC-135 fleet to prove the design concept. Helzer would then like to contract the fabrication of a final, more durable prototype and share the Boom Cover Tool throughout the entire fleet and modify the design to be adopted for other variations of refueling aircraft.

“Helzer has been a go-getter from the moment he arrived on station and is always hungry to learn all aspect of his job, and his critical thinking skills are some of the bests I’ve ever seen,” Jakubowski said.

Helzer has always been motivated to improve himself and the way things are done at his job, and one example of this is the Boom Cover Tool.

“This is how change starts, by questioning the way we do things and coming up with a solution that will benefit Airmen at all levels,” Helzer said. “I created the Boom Cover Tool to make the lives of my Wingmen easier and inspire Airmen to devise and implement new ideas to help improve even the simplest tasks.”

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MACDILL THUNDERBOLT