Thunderbolt 01/13/2022

Vol. 50, No. 2

Thursday, January 13, 2022

News/Features: page 3 MacDill candidate for KC-46s

News/Features: page 3 Two awarded Medal of Honor

Week in photos: page 4 Images from the week

AF celebrating 75 years - page 8 Photo by Nicholas Pilch

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

Bob Miller, Tournament of Roses president, and Air Force Chief of Staff Gen. CQ Brown, Jr., present a cake in honor of the Air Force’s 75th birthday, Dec. 30, in Pasadena, Calif. America’s Air Force participated in America’s New Year Celebration to kickoff 2022 and the yearlong celebration of the 75th anniversary of the Department of the Air Force.

NEWS/FEATURES

Department of the Air Force to launch myEval in 2022 Secretary of the Air Force Public Affairs

WASHINGTON (AFNS)—Beginning January 2022, the Department of the Air Force will launch a new enlisted and officer evaluation system application, myEvaluation (myEval), to further support ongoing IT and talent management transformations for Total Force Airmen and Guardians.

“Shifting to a 21st century IT application, like myEval, enables the department to greatly improve our performance feedback and evaluation systems, synchronizing and complementing the many updates we’ve made to our talent management systems over the past couple of years. The myEval application reduces administrative burdens, enhances the user experience, and provides leaders with performance data to assist in making informed talent management decisions,” said Lt. Gen. Brian Kelly, Deputy Chief of Staff for Manpower, Personnel, and Services. “For the Air Force specifically, transitioning to myEval in early 2022 also begins the evolution to a cloud-based officer and enlisted evaluation system grounded in our Airman Leadership Qualities.”

To allow for a progressive rollout of myEval, human resource professionals across the DAF gain access to the myEval app from the new myFSS platform landing page starting the week of Jan. 4, 2022, in advance of all routine-access users. This provides time for familiarization of the new application and to work out any technical issues prior to a full launch. On Jan. 18, 2022, myEval will open a familiarization period for all Airmen and Guardians. Full usage and functionality will open DAF-wide Feb. 4, 2022.

The DAF will transition from vPC to myEval in multiple phases to allow for appropriate adjustment cycles prior to mandatory use. Across

the Total Force, beginning Feb. 4, 2022, Airmen and Guardians must accomplish performance feedback using myEval, and officer and enlisted evaluations with a close-out date of May 31, 2022, or later, must be processed in myEval. Evaluations with a close-out date May 30, 2022, or earlier, will continue to be processed in vPC. All Letters of Evaluation and Training Reports, regardless of closeout date, will continue to be processed using current systems while the DAF finalizes plans to integrate these products into myEval. As the Air Force transitions to ALQ-based feedback this spring, and to ALQ-based evaluations this fall, the Space Force will continue to use the current Airman Comprehensive Assessment feedback forms and current officer and enlisted performance reports accessible in myEval, until a transition decision is announced at a later time.

While numerous enhancements will be live when the system myEval launches in January, the DAF will continue to develop and release additional capabilities within myEval the app throughout 2022. Improvements include auto-population of information directly from the Military Personnel Data System (MilPDS), introduction of a click-to-sign feature, and the integration of myEval with other myFSS applications, such as myFitness, to auto-populate performance related data, reducing the number of supporting documentation items to be manually attached.

“The journey of improving our evaluation system for both the enlisted and officer corps is in full-swing,” said Col. Laura King, the Air Force Talent Management Innovation Cell Director. “There are several milestones along this journey to a competency-based evaluation system that enables increased transparency and more direct feedback between Airmen and their supervisors. The launch of myEval is a big step towards reaching our end goals.”

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

MacDill named preferred location for next KC-46A Pegasus Secretary of the Air Force Public Affairs WASHINGTON (AFNS)—The Department of the Air Force selected MacDill Air Force Base as the preferred location to host the next active duty KC-46A Pegasus aircraft, Dec. 21.

The decision was made after conducting site surveys that assessed locations based on factors related to mission, infrastructure capacity, community support, environmental considerations and cost.

Twenty-four KC-46As will replace active duty KC135 Stratotankers at MacDill AFB. The new tankers will bring many enhanced capabilities, such as boom and drogue refueling on the same sortie, worldwide navigations and communication, cargo capacity on the entire main deck floor, receiver air refueling, improved force protection, and multi-point air refueling capability.

A final basing decision will be made after an environmental impact analysis, which is expected to take place in fall 2023. Fairchild AFB, Washington, is considered a reasonable alternative and will also undergo an environmental impact analysis.

Photo by Yasuo Osakabe

A Boeing KC-46A Pegasus takes off at Yokota Air Base, Japan, Oct. 25, 2018, during a system evaluation. This is the first time the KC-46A visited Japan. The flight is to support an initial evaluation by the USAF of the KC-46A’s integrated mission system suite as well as its ability to conduct worldwide navigation, communication and operation.

Pair of SOF Soldiers receive Medal of Honor story courtesy of U.S. Army

Master Sgt. Earl Plumlee was born in Clinton, Oklahoma. He grew up working on his family’s cattle ranch and oil field instrument company. He began his military career by joining the Oklahoma National Guard, serving in the 45th Field Artillery Brigade as a rocket artilleryman (13M) during his junior year of high school. After graduating high school in 2000, Plumlee joined the United States Marine Corps.

He attended boot camp at Marine Corps Recruit Depot, San Diego, California and Marine Corps School of Infantry. Plumlee was then assigned to Alpha Company, 1st Battalion, 3rd Marine Regiment, located in Kaneohe, Hawaii, where he served his first enlistment in a weapons platoon.

Plumlee deployed to Okinawa, Japan, after the 9/11 attacks occurred. He was sent to Bahrain and served on a Marine Security Element to the 5th Fleet. In 2003, he was deployed to

Zamboanga, Philippines, to the Joint Special Operations Task Force-Philippines on Camp Navarro. After returning from this deployment, Plumlee attended the 4th Force Reconnaissance, Recon Indoctrination Program, and was selected to attend the Marine’s Amphibious Reconnaissance Course and became a Basic Reconnaissance Marine. Afterwards, Plumlee attended and graduated from Navy SERE School, Basic Airborne School, the Marine Corps High Risk Personnel Course, and Marine Combat Dive School. Upon returning to the 4th Force Recon, he volunteered for a deployment to Iraq with the 2nd Force Reconnaissance Company.

Plumlee was deployed to Iraq’s Al Anbar region, operating from the Al Asad Airfield from August 2005 to February 2006. Upon returning from this deployment, he attended Military Free Fall School. From there, he was promoted to Recon team leader. In 2007, he married his wife, Terrie. Following his wedding, Plumlee volunteered to deploy to Iraq again in 2008.

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Master Sgt. Earl D. Plumlee is one of two U.S. Army Soldiers recently awarded the Medal of Honor, the military’s highest honor.

During this deployment, he was selected and recognized as the Marine Corps Recon Team Leader of the Year. After returning from Iraq, Plumlee decided to make a change in his career

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WEEK IN PHOTOS

Photo by Staff Sgt. K. Tucker Owen

Airmen assigned to the 31st Medical Group receive their first COVID-19 vaccination at Aviano Air Base, Italy, Jan. 8, 2021. Inoculations for the 31st Fighter Wing were given in a tiered approach, with first-tier recipients including health care workers and first responders getting priority.

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Photo by Joshua J. Seybert

Photo by Senior Airman Brennen Lege

Airman 1st Class Bethany Dacus, 911th Aircraft Maintenance Squadron crew chief, poses for a photo after conducting routine maintenance on a C-17 Globemaster III at the Pittsburgh International Airport Air Reserve Station, Pa., March 1. Today, women play many vital roles in accomplishing the U.S. Air Force mission, and their accomplishments and contributions to society are celebrated during the month of March, which was declared Women’s History Month by Congress in 1987.

A 40th Expeditionary Airlift Squadron flying crew chief touches the nose of a C-130J Super Hercules for good luck prior to boarding the aircraft for a mission supporting Combined Joint Task Force-Operation Inherent Resolve, in the U.S. Central Command area of responsibility, July 20.

The flexible design of the C-130 enables it to be configured for multiple different missions, allowing one aircraft to perform the role of many and project premier airlift airpower in the USCENTCOM AOR.

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NEWS/FEATURES

Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Day: Remember! Celebrate! Act! Defense Equal Opportunity Management Institute Each year the Department of Defense joins the nation in honoring the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Day is a U.S. federal holiday marking the birthday of Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. It is observed on the third Monday of January each year, around the time of King’s birthday, Jan. 15.

This year, the Martin Luther King Jr. Day of Service will be recognized on Jan. 17, 2022.

The Montgomery Bus Boycott is regarded as the first large-scale U.S. demonstration against segregation. It represents a pivotal moment in the modern American civil rights movement. Additionally, it remains one of the most powerful stories of organizing and social change in U.S. history.

In Montgomery, segregation was a part of everyday life. Black people were faced with Jim Crow laws in parks, schools, restrooms, theaters and buses.

One area of acrimony was the segregation law within the city bus system. The law stated that Black people could not sit in front of the bus, regardless of whether the seats were empty or not. They were required to pay their fares in the front of the bus, then walk to the backdoor to board the bus.

The campaign lasted from Dec. 5, 1955—the Monday after Rosa Parks,

an African-American woman, was arrested for her refusal to surrender her seat to a white person—to Dec. 20, 1956. It ended with the United States Supreme Court’s decision that declared the Alabama and Montgomery laws that segregated buses were unconstitutional.

By the end of the boycott, Dr. King entered the national spotlight as a civil rights leader and an inspirational proponent of organized, nonviolent resistance.

The Defense Department understands that freedom, equality, and inclusion are true force multipliers and imperative to national defense and the strength of our nation.

In 1995, Congress designated Martin Luther King, Jr. Day as the first and only federal holiday observed as a national day of service. Congress charged the Corporation for National and Community Service with leading this national effort.

The MLK Day of Service is a way to channel Dr. King’s life and teaching into community action.

Each year, on the third Monday in January, the DoD joins the nation in honoring the life and legacy of Dr. King by making the holiday a day of community service – “A Day On, Not A Day Off.” Americans answer the call to action by serving their neighborhoods and volunteering their time to make a positive difference in their commu-

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MLK

From Page 5

DOD graphic by the Defense Equal Opportunity Management Institute

nities. The men and women of the DoD honor Dr. King by living up to the standard he set. Together they ensure his legacy lives on, and as one DoD family, rise up to meet today’s challenges.

As we remember Dr. King on his birthday, let us continue to live up the

to the standard he set, ensure his legacy lives on, and, as one DoD family, rise up to meet the challenges that remain. Visit https://www.nationalservice.gov/serve-your-community/mlk-day-service for more information on the Martin Luther King, Jr. Day.

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The U.S. Air Force Total Force Band takes a photo with Air Force Chief of Staff Gen. CQ Brown, Jr., (front row center), before the Tournament of Roses Parade and Rose Bowl Dec. 31, 2021, in Pasadena, Calif.. America’s Air Force participated in America’s New Year Celebration to kickoff 2022 and the yearlong celebration of the 75th anniversary of the Department of the Air Force.

Photo by Nicholas Pilch

Photo by Nicholas Pilch

U.S. Air Force gears up to commemorate its 75th anniversary Secretary of the Air Force Public Affairs

WASHINGTON (AFNS)—It’s never too early to start celebrating a major milestone, which explains why the U.S. Air Force and Department of the Air Force kicked off the year with a bang Jan. 1 by highlighting the start of their 75th year at the Tournament of Roses Parade and the Rose Bowl.

Seventy-five years after the Air Force’s birth on Sept. 18, 1947, the spirit of innovation that has driven the service was on display when a B-2 Spirit from the 509th Bomb Wing, located at Whiteman Air Force Base, Missouri, roared over the Tournament of Roses Parade and one of the most prestigious college bowl games, the 2022 Rose Bowl, to kick-off the yearlong 75th-anniversary celebration.

The B-2 has supported the Tournament of Roses and Rose Bowl for nearly two decades, showcasing one of the Air Force’s premier weapon systems over the skies of Pasadena to inspire a future generation of patriotism and aviation.

Joining the B-2 this year to kick off the celebration was an Air Force Total Force Band, comprised of 75 Airmen-Musicians from 14 units. Fittingly, the band marched in the 75th spot in the Tournament of Roses parade lineup.

The Airmen taking part in the start of the year celebration highlighted one of the service’s greatest strengths: the nearly 700,000 active duty, Guard, Reserve and civilian Airmen who remain the heart and soul of the service, said Air Force Chief of Staff Gen. CQ Brown, Jr., who currently serves as the service’s highest ranking military officer.

“Ever since the Air Force became a separate military service, empowered Airmen have pushed the boundaries of technology and innovation that have allowed the service to excel and keep pace with the rapid changes and the demands placed upon us,” Brown said. “Our commemoration of this important anniversary provides a chance to reflect on the amazing accomplishments of our service and those who have served among its ranks since 1947, while also celebrating the boundless future that lies ahead.”

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Brown added, “As the Air Force approaches its 75th anniversary, we have a responsibility to our nation and our international allies and partners. I am confident that our Airmen will continue to innovate, accelerate and thrive so that we can execute our mission to Fly, Fight, and Win…Airpower Anytime, Anywhere.”

To honor the past, present and future, the theme for the 75th anniversary is “Innovate, Accelerate, Thrive – The Air Force at 75.” That focus captures a range of activities and observations that will take place throughout the year and highlight the anniversary’s significance.

“The 75th anniversaries of the U.S. Air Force and the Department of the Air Force provides a unique opportunity to highlight the contributions of our Total Force Airmen, both past and present, who have fought and defended our nation in air and space,” Secretary of the Air Force Frank Kendall said. “When you think about what the Air Force has accomplished since its inception in 1947, there’s so much to be proud of – it’s truly incredible.

“These past 75 years have showcased the service’s ability to adapt to any situation and provide unparalleled airpower as well as spacepower right up to the establishment of the U.S. Space Force within the Department of the Air Force in 2019,” he said. “As we look ahead to the next 75 years, we must continue to adapt and modernize so that our Airmen and Guardians have the warfighting capabilities they need to stay ahead of our pacing challenges, while also ensuring they and their families have the resources they need to thrive. One team, one fight!”

Throughout 2022, the Air Force will celebrate its 75th milestone with various events around the U.S. and worldwide to showcase the values, commitment, and expertise of America’s Total Force Airmen, past and present. In addition, the service will spotlight its history, accomplishments, and many of the pioneering Airmen whose innovation, dedication to mission, and war-fighting spirit helped established the U.S. Air Force of today.

Innovation fueled by Airmen has always been a part of the Air Force’s heritage, even before it became an independent service in 1947.

Maj. Gen. Billy Mitchell, also known as the “Father of the Air Force,” was one Airman who paved the way for the service. According to military historians, his commitment to pushing boundaries and working towards a distinct aerial service branch seeded a renaissance for the airpower legacy that would distinguish itself during conflicts across the globe for years to come.

Likewise, Gen. Henry H. “Hap” Arnold, who was designated the first and only five-star General of the Air Force by President Truman, also played a key role in leading, developing and innovating American military airpower during World War II, providing the necessary vision and drive to ultimately create the conditions for an independent U.S. Air Force following the war. Today, Gen. Arnold is considered an airpower pioneer whose efforts helped to lay the foundation for modern Air Force logistics, R&D, and operations, according to the National Museum of the U.S. Air Force.

The Air Force’s history is also the history of the nation’s advancements in space. Under the Air Force’s early space pioneers such as Gen. Bernard Schriever, the Air Force developed and integrated the technologies that put U.S. rockets and satellites into space. By Operation Desert Storm in 1991, often called the nation’s first space war, space became central to nearly all military operations.

These same technologies that brought victory in Desert Storm, such as GPS and communication satellites, are now essential to modern life in America. The importance of space grew and the U.S. Space Force emerged as an independent service within the Department of the Air Force in 2019.

“This is what is being celebrated as the U.S. Air Force and the Department of the Air Force enter their 75th years and what was on display in the skies over California when the B-2 roared overhead: 75 years of American airpower, spacepower, and innovation that have secured our nation and made us stronger,” said Brig. Gen. Patrick Ryder, Department of the Air Force Public Affairs director.

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Air Force Chief of Staff Gen. CQ Brown, Jr., his wife, Sharene, and Chief Master Sgt. Daniel Valadie, U.S. Air Force Total Force Band drum major, take a promotional photo together before the Tournament of Roses Parade and Rose Bowl Dec. 31, in Pasadena, Calif. America’s Air Force participated in America’s New Year Celebration to kickoff 2022 and the yearlong celebration of the 75th anniversary of the Department of the Air Force.

Photo by Tech. Sgt. Dylan Nuckolls

A B-2 Spirit from Whiteman Air Force Base, Mo., flies over the 108th Rose Bowl in Pasadena, Calif., Jan. 1, 2022. America’s Air Force participated in America’s New Year Celebration including the Tournament of Roses Parade to kickoff 2022 and the yearlong celebration of the 75th anniversary of the Department of the Air Force.

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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

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NEWS/FEATURES

MacDill community can keep smiles bright with opening of DOCS Dental Office by 6th Air Refueling Wing Public Affairs MacDill Air Force Base retirees and military families can keep their smiles bright without having to go off base thanks to the opening of a DOCS Dental Office at the Army & Air Force Exchange Service shopping center.

Thomas Kuttamperoor, MacDill Air Force Base Exchange General Manager, Ronald Jones II of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Dr. Lawrence Caplin, DOCS owner and CEO, Col. Jason Loschinskey, 6th Mission Support Group commander, Sherri Samudio, MacDill AFB Exchange Services Business Manager and William Gholston of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers cut the ribbon for the new DOCS Dental Office located at the MacDill AFB Exchange shopping center at MacDill AFB, Fla., Dec. 14.

“The convenience of dental services on the installation is a tremendous benefit to the MacDill community,” said Kuttamperoor. “The Exchange is committed to making life better at MacDill.”

In addition to retirees and military dependents, veterans with service-connected disabilities and Department of Defense civilians can also utilize the dental office services.

See DENTAL OFFICE, Page 13

Courtesy photo

From left, Thomas Kuttamperoor, MacDill Air Force Base Exchange General Manager, Ronald Jones II of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Dr. Lawrence Caplin, DOCS owner and CEO, Col. Jason Loschinskey, 6th Mission Support Group commander, Sherri Samudio, MacDill AFB Exchange Services Business Manager and William Gholston of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers cut the ribbon for the new DOCS Dental Office located at the MacDill AFB Exchange shopping center Dec. 14.

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MEDAL OF HONOR From Page 3

trajectory and joined the U.S. Army under the 18X program in January 2009. Upon successful completion of the Special Forces Assessment and Selection, he was chosen to attend the Special Forces Qualification Course, where he had the unique opportunity to attend SERE School for a second time.

In 2009, successfully graduated SFQC as a Special Forces weapons sergeant (18B) and was assigned to 4th Battalion, 1st Special Forces Group (Airborne). There, he served in various rotations through the Indo-Pacific area of responsibility. Plumlee deployed to Afghanistan in April 2013, where his unit was tasked with conducting stability operations. Later in this deployment, he was located at Forward Operating Base Ghazni, which was subject to a complex attack on Aug. 28, 2013.

After returning from Afghanistan, Plumlee completed nine months of physical rehabilitation, while continuing to serve in the 4th Battalion, 1st SFG (A).

In 2015, Plumlee was stationed in Okinawa, Japan, with the 1st Battalion, 1st SFG (A), where he served in the INDOPACOM-Crisis Response Force. There he served on foreign details for President Obama and President Trump. In 2018, he was selected for promotion to master sergeant and ended his time in Okinawa. He and his family returned to Joint Base LewisMcChord, Washington, where he served in the 1st SFG (A) headquarters. In August 2020, he was selected to become a team sergeant at 3rd Battalion 1st SFG (A), where he continues to serve.

His awards and decorations include the Silver Star, the Bronze Star Medal with “V” device, the Purple Heart, the Meritorious Service Medal, the Army Achievement Medal, two Navy Achievement Medals, the Combat Action Ribbon, four Army Good Conduct Medals, two Marine Corps Good Conduct Medals, the National Defense Service Medal, the Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal, the Afghanistan Campaign Medal with Campaign Star, the Iraq Campaign Medal with Campaign Star, the Iraq Campaign Medal with Arrowhead Device, the Global War on Terrorism Expeditionary Medal, the Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, the Marine Corps Expeditionary Medal, the Armed Forces Reserve Medal with “M” Device, three Noncommissioned Officer Professional Development 12

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Ribbons, the Army Service Ribbon, the Overseas Service Ribbon, four Sea Service Deployment Ribbons, the NATO Medal, two Navy Unit Commendations, the Marine Unit Commendation, the Special Forces Tab, the Combat Infantryman Badge, the Military Free-Fall Parachute Badge and the Indonesian Parachutist Badge.

The battle: Aug. 28, 2013 | Forward Operating Base Ghazni Then-Staff Sgt. Earl D. Plumlee distinguished himself by acts of gallantry and intrepidity above and beyond the call of duty while engaging with the enemy in support of Operation Enduring Freedom in Ghazni Province, Afghanistan, on Aug. 28, 2013.

Plumlee served as a weapons sergeant assigned to Charlie Company, 4th Battalion, 1st Special Forces Group (Airborne), at Forward Operating Base Ghazni, when the complex was attacked. Plumlee instantly responded to a massive explosion that caused a 60-foot breach in the base’s perimeter wall. Ten insurgents wearing Afghan National Army uniforms and suicide vests poured through the breach.

Plumlee and five other special operations Soldiers, intent on defending the base, mounted two vehicles and raced toward the detonation site. Plumlee’s driver purposefully maneuvered the vehicle into enemy fire to shield three dismounted teammates, two of whom were injured, placing the vehicle under effective enemy fire from the front and right side.

Using his body to shield the driver from enemy fire, Plumlee exited the vehicle while simultaneously drawing his pistol and engaging an insurgent 15 meters to the vehicle’s right. Without cover and with complete disregard for his safety, he advanced toward the enemy force, engaging multiple insurgents with only his pistol.

Upon reaching cover, he killed two insurgents.

Plumlee left cover and continued to advance alone. Moving forward, he engaged several combatants at close range. Under intense enemy fire, Plumlee temporarily withdrew to cover, where he joined another Soldier.

Plumlee, ignoring his injuries, quickly regained his bearings and reengaged the enemy.

Intense enemy fire once again forced the two Soldiers to temporarily withdraw. Undeterred and resolute, Plumlee joined a small group of American and coalition soldiers moving from cover to counterattack the infiltrators. As the

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Courtesy photo

Sgt. 1st Class Christopher A. Celiz, Medal of Honor recipient. coalition forces advanced, Plumlee engaged an insurgent to his front-left.

Plumlee then ran to a wounded Soldier, carried him to safety, and rendered first aid. Afterwards, he organized three coalition members in a defensive stance as he methodically cleared the area, remained in a security posture and continued to scan for any remaining threats.

Throughout the entire engagement, Plumlee repeatedly placed himself in extreme danger to protect his team and the base, and to defeat the enemy. Plumlee’ s extraordinary heroism and selflessness beyond the call of duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of military service and reflect great credit upon himself, his unit and the United States Army.

Sgt. 1st Class Christopher A. Celiz, a native of Summerville, South Carolina, enlisted in the United States Army in September 2006.

He completed Basic Combat Training and Advanced Individual Training as a combat engineer (12B) at Fort Leonard Wood, Missouri.

Celiz’s first assignment was with Company E, 2nd Battalion, 7th Cavalry Regiment, 1st Cavalry Division, Fort Hood, Texas. Following this assignment, Celiz was transferred to Company C, Special Troops Battalion, 4th Brigade, 1st Cavalry Division, also at Fort Hood, as a team leader.

See MEDAL OF HONOR, Page 14

NEWS/FEATURES Annual reminder: union representation/Weingarten right & grievance procedures Union Representation: Bargaining Unit employees are reminded that under Section 7114(a)(2)(B) of Chapter 71, Title 5, U.S.C., employees have the right to be represented at any examination in connection with an investigation if: a. The employee reasonably believes that the examination may result in disciplinary action against the employee, and b. The employee requests representation. *Please note an employee’s Weingarten right does not apply to OSI independent investigations.

Grievance Procedures: All employees have the right to file a grievance

and request personal relief in matters of concern relating to conditions of employment within the control of Air Force management. The negotiated grievance procedure for bargaining unit employees is contained in the applicable union agreement. DODI1400.25-V771_AFI36-706, DoD Civilian Personnel Management System Administrative Grievance System, contains the grievance procedures for non-bargaining unit and non-DCIPS employees (https://static.e-publishing.af.mil/production/1/af_a1/publication/dodi1400.25-v771_afi36-706/dodi1400.25-v771_afi36-706.pdf).

DENTAL OFFICE From Page 11

The DOCS dental office has six operatory rooms and provides general dentistry, orthodontics, periodontics, endodontics and cosmetic services.

The clinic is open Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Saturday from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. and accepts all TRICARE dental plans

for beneficiaries, as well as the Federal Employee Dental and Vision Insurance Program (FEDVIP) and other insurances. For more information, call 813-425-2300. The MacDill AFB Exchange shopping center is located at Bldg. 926, 3108 N. Boundary Blvd.

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

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MEDAL OF HONOR From Page 12

Celiz was then assigned to the 530th Engineer Clearance Company, 92nd Engineer Battalion, 3rd Infantry Division, Fort Stewart, Georgia, where he served as a sapper squad leader and platoon sergeant.

In 2013, Celiz was selected to serve with the 75th Ranger Regiment and was assigned to Headquarters Company, 1st Battalion, 75th Ranger Regiment, Hunter Army Airfield, Georgia, where he served as the battalion master breacher and engineer. In March 2017, he was assigned to Company D, where he served as the mortar platoon sergeant.

Celiz deployed from 2008 to 2009 in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom and from 2011 to 2012 in support of Operation Enduring Freedom.

He was on his fifth deployment with the 1st Battalion, 75th Ranger Regiment, when he was killed.

Celiz’s military education includes the Infantry Mortar Leader Course; Senior, Advanced and Basic Leader Courses; Jumpmaster Course; Sapper Leader Course; Ranger Assessment and Selection Program 2; Basic Airborne Course; U.S. Army Ranger Course; Route Reconnaissance Clearance Course-Sapper and the Combat Lifesaver Course.

His awards and decorations include the Bronze Star Medal with “V” device, the Joint Service Commendation Medal, the Army Commendation Medal (2 bronze oak leaf clusters), the Navy Commendation Medal, the Joint Service Achievement Medal, Army Achievement Medals (4 bronze oak leaf clusters), the Meritorious Unit Citation Medal (2), the Afghanistan Campaign Medal with Campaign Star (3), the Iraq Campaign Medal with Campaign Star (2), the Global War on Terrorism Expeditionary Medal, the Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, the Army Service Ribbon, the Overseas Service Ribbon, the NATO Medal, the Ranger tab, the Sapper tab, the Combat Action Badge, and the Parachutist Badge.

Celiz is survived by his spouse, Katie Celiz, and their daughter.

The battle: July 12, 2018 | Paktia Province, Afghanistan Sgt. 1st Class Christopher A. Celiz distinguished himself by acts of gallantry and intrepidity above and beyond the call of duty while engaging with the enemy in Paktia Province, Afghanistan, on July 12, 2018.

As the leader of a special operations unit comprised of partnered forces and members of the 1st Battalion, 75th Ranger Regiment, Celiz led an operation to clear an area of enemy forces and thereby disrupt future at-

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tacks against the government of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan.

Shortly after his team reached their initial objective, a large enemy force attacked. The enemy placed effective fire on him and his team, preventing them from maneuvering to a counterattack. Realizing the danger to his team and the operation, Celiz voluntarily exposed himself to intense enemy machine-gun and small-arms fire.

Under fire, he retrieved and employed a heavy weapon system, thereby allowing U.S. and partnered forces to regain the initiative, maneuver to a secure location, and begin treating a critically wounded partnered force member.

As the medical evacuation helicopter arrived, it was immediately engaged by accurate and sustained enemy fire. Knowing how critical it was to quickly load the wounded partner, Celiz willingly exposed himself again to heavy enemy fire so he could take charge to direct and lead the evacuation. As the casualty was moved from a position of cover, Celiz made a conscious effort to ensure his body acted as a physical shield to protect his team, the injured partner and the crew of the aircraft from enemy fire. After the wounded partner was loaded, Celiz’s team returned to cover, but he remained with the aircraft, returning a high volume of fire and constantly repositioning himself to act as a physical shield to the aircraft and its crew.

With his final reposition, Celiz placed himself directly between the cockpit and the enemy, ensuring the aircraft was able to depart. Upon the helicopter’s liftoff, Celiz was hit by enemy fire. Fully aware of his injury, but understanding the peril to the aircraft, Celiz motioned to the pilots to depart rather than remain to load him. His selfless actions saved the life of the evacuated partnered force member and almost certainly prevented further casualties among other members of his team and the aircrew. Celiz died as a result of his injuries. His extraordinary heroism and selflessness beyond the call of duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of military service and reflect great credit upon himself, his unit and the United States Army.

Throughout the entire engagement, Celiz significantly changed the course of the battle by repeatedly placing himself in extreme danger to protect his team and defeat the enemy.

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COMMUNITY

EVENTS

Become a licensed family childcare provider Tons of incentives for new and existing providers. Available for on or off base care. Learn more at macdillfss.com/family-child-care M&FRC Federal Resume Writing Workshop Jan. 20 1 p.m.-3 p.m. Free workshop to learn basic resume construction with different formats to target good employment opportunities and to capture employers’ attention.

MCEE – meeting at Tinker K-8 Jan. 24 For parents of military-connected K-12 students enrolled in Hillsborough County Public Schools. On Monday, Jan. 24, 4 p.m.-5 p.m., there will be a military family forum to discuss K-12 educational concerns with MacDill AFB Leadership and HCPS District leadership. Parents must be present to ask educational questions to MCEE committee.

For more information contact: venetia.waters@us.af.mil or call 828-0146.

Find more events at: macdillfss.com

Boom!

Photo by Airman 1st Class Joshua Hastings

U.S. Air Force Staff Sgt. Kevin Satberry, 91st Air Refueling Squadron instructor boom operator, left, evaluates Senior Airman Caleb Mills, 91st ARS boom operator, right, during a refueling exercise over Alabama, Dec. 21. Mills operated a specialized boom from the back of a KC-135 Stratotanker aircraft assigned to MacDill Air Force Base to refuel F-16 Fighting Falcon aircraft assigned to the 187th Fighter Wing, Alabama National Guard.

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

Catholic (in-person) - Sunday - 8 & 9:30 a.m.

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

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

Other Faith Groups

www.macdill.af.mil/chapel

Off-base referral as needed

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

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

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