Thunderbolt 1/25/2024

Vol. 52, No. 4

Thursday, January 25, 2024

News/Features: page 2 Mentors of the skies

News/Features: page 3 Fifth CMSAF Gaylor passes

Week in photos: page 4 Images from the week

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

Photo by Senior Airman Michael Killian

Firefighters from the 6th Civil Engineering Squadron participate in rapid intervention training at MacDill Force Base Jan. 11. RIT focuses on assisting downed firefighters while staying safe.

NEWS/FEATURES

The mentor of the skies

by Senior Airman Michael Killian 6th Air Refueling Wing Public Affairs In the high-stakes world of aircraft maintenance, few roles are as demanding or rewarding as that of a Flying Crew Chief (FCC), and at the center of this operation is Staff Sergeant Ben Kellum.

Kellum’s unique position involves accompanying aircraft on missions all over the World, a stark contrast to the regular crew chief ’s role.

Kellum’s experience spans across continents, from Europe to Africa, witnessing the Northern Lights and engaging in NATO operations like Operation Baltic Trident.

His international assignments weren’t just about maintenance; they were about overcoming language barriers, fostering international relations, and training with NATO allies. In Lithuania, near Russia’s border, Kellum’s expertise was crucial in training Lithuanian forces in aircraft de-icing and crash recovery procedures.

His expertise and leadership were particularly evident during a mission in Nigeria. After a hazardous landing that resulted in blown tires and overheated brakes, Kellum and his team navigated through a daunting situation in a politically sensitive environment, showcasing exceptional crisis management skills.

However, it’s not just Kellum’s technical prowess that makes him stand out; it’s his commitment to his Airmen. He recalls helping multiple Airmen over the course of his career, overcoming personal and professional hurdles and guiding them towards success. These stories of mentorship underscore Kellum’s philosophy: caring for and investing in people.

See MENTOR, Page 10

Photo by Senior Airman Michael Killian

U.S. Air Force Staff Sgt. Benjamin Kellum, a crew chief assigned to the 6th Aircraft Maintenance Squadron, teaches Airman 1st Class Jacob Scott, a crew chief assigned to the 6th AMXS, about components on a KC-135 Stratotanker at MacDill Air Force Base Jan. 16. The 6th AMXS empowers its senior members to mentor and train its new airmen as much as possible to ensure proficiency across all maintenance shops.

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.

For retail advertising, call (813) 226-3318.

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 , 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

U.S. Air Force mourns passing of 5th CMSAF Secretary of the Air Force Public Affairs ARLINGTON, Va. (AFNS)—Robert D. Gaylor, the fifth Chief Master Sergeant of the Air Force, passed away Jan. 17, at the age of 93.

Gaylor’s career spanned nearly 31 years, leaving a legacy of service, leadership and dedication.

“CMSAF Gaylor was a pillar of our Air Force,” said Chief Master Sgt. of the Air Force JoAnne S. Bass. “For more than 75 years, both in uniform and after he retired, he served our Airmen and the institution he loved so dearly.

He will be deeply missed by all.”

Gaylor was selected as the Chief Master Sergeant of the Air Force on Aug. 1, 1977. In this role, he served as the senior enlisted advisor to the Chief of Staff of the Air Force and the most senior noncommissioned officer in the Air Force. He represented the interests of enlisted Airmen at the highest levels of the service and played a key role in shaping Air Force policies.

Among his numerous achievements as CMSAF, he played a significant role in the creation of the Air Force’s new maternity uniform and pushed for a policy change allowing junior enlisted Airmen undergoing a permanent change of station to transport their families at the government’s expense.

U.S. Air Force graphic

Robert D. Gaylor, the fifth Chief Master Sergeant of the Air Force, passed away Jan. 17 at the age of 93. Among his numerous achievements as CMSAF, he played a significant role in the creation of the Air Force’s new maternity uniform and pushed for a policy change allowing junior enlisted Airmen undergoing a permanent change of station to transport their families at the government’s expense.

Gaylor enlisted in the Air Force in 1948, at a time when the service was still in its infancy.

He began his career in the security police, continued to serve in a variety of assignments, including in Korea, Japan and Vietnam. He also

DAF streamlines awards process Secretary of the Air Force Public Affairs ARLINGTON, Va. (AFNS)—The Department of the Air Force will launch new software and policies to improve the decorations approval process today. myDecs Reimagined, a new application on the myFSS platform, will be a single-page experience and allows ad-hoc routing to any myFSS user.

The new application also eliminates the need for multiple screens found in the previous version.

“This new software coincides with a policy change to move the DAF away from reliance on the centralized Military Personnel Flights to file approved and signed decorations. Trust and responsibility is placed back with the approval authority and the record now updates automatically upon signature,” said Deputy Chief of Staff for Manpower, Personnel and Services Lt. Gen. Caroline Miller. “Our goal is to make the system more

served as an instructor at the Second Air Force Noncommissioned Officer Academy at Barksdale Air Force Base, Louisiana, assisted in reopening the then-Strategic Air Command NCO See CMSAF, Page 12

intuitive and create a smoother process for users.”

Airmen and Guardians in operational units met with DAF decorations experts to shape the new system and were the catalyst for the policy changes. Quality review checks previously performed by MPF members are now automated, freeing personnel to focus on strengthening their recognition programs.

Users and approval authorities will see the following changes: • Like myEval, users choose who they route to and have a dashboard to track decorations • Nominators name the approval authority when drafting the nomination • Decorations are fully editable until signed • Users may add comments and routing notes • Upon approval, the decoration goes directly into the record • MPFs no longer review each transaction and strengthen their advisory and audit role • Like myEval, only HR Technician roles for the CSS and MPF are now needed See AWARDS, Page 16

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WEEK IN PHOTOS

U.S. Air Force Staff Sgt. Eric Reilly, 6th Maintenance Squadron noncommissioned officer in charge of hydraulics, poses for a photo at MacDill Air Force Base Jan. 17. Hydraulics technicians are responsible for maintaining, repairing and replacing hundreds of aircraft components.

Photo by Senior Airman Zachary Foster

Photo by Senior Airman Michael Killian

Photo by Senior Airman Joshua Hastings

Firefighters from the 6th Civil Engineering Squadron simulate rescuing a firefighter out of air during rapid intervention training at MacDill Force Base Jan. 11. RIT focuses on assisting downed firefighters while staying safe.

An American alligator basks in the sun at MacDill Air Force Base Jan. 17.

The American alligator is a large, semi-aquatic, armored reptile that is one of two crocodilians native to Florida. Various species of wildlife found on the installation include alligators, burrowing owls, armadillos, gopher tortoises, bald eagles, river otters, manatees and other marine species.

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NEWS/FEATURES

US, Bahrain showcase expeditionary deployment capabilities United States Air Forces Central Bahrain—Ninth Air Force (Air Forces Central)’s 378th Air Expeditionary Wing and 379th Air Expeditionary Wing executed Ballast Cannon 24.3 alongside the Royal Bahraini Air Force, Jan. 6-12 in Bahrain.

As a routine exercise occurring nearly quarterly with the Royal Bahraini Air Force, this iteration supports the U.S. Air Force’s rapid expeditionary capabilities by integrating Agile Combat Employment objectives for F-16 Fighting Falcon, KC-135 Stratotanker, and operational support personnel.

The bilateral training focuses on strengthening the bonds between coalition forces and building a foundation for future engagements in support of the Combined Defense of the Arabian Peninsula. The training objectives benefiting both nations include aerial refueling, coalition command and control, and tactical integration.

“Through decades of collaboration and cooperation with our wonderful partners in the region, we have developed key relationships, bolsterSee BHRAIN, Page 13

Photo by Senior Airman Sarah Williams

U.S. Air Force F-16 Fighting Falcons pilots and crew chiefs conduct post-flight operations at an undisclosed location in the U.S. Central Command area of responsibility, Jan. 6. As a routine exercise Ballast Cannon occurs nearly quarterly with the Royal Bahraini Air Force to support the U.S. Air Force’s rapid expeditionary capabilities by integrating Agile Combat Employment objectives for F-16 Fighting Falcon, KC-135 Stratotanker, and operational support personnel. The exercise allowed Total Force Airmen to generate unique solutions in austere environments.

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NEWS/FEATURES DAF hosts 2024 Women in Peace, Diplomacy Panel Secretary of the Air Force Public Affairs ARLINGTON, Va. (AFNS)—More than 150 attendees gathered for the 2024 Women in Peace and Diplomacy event hosted by the Office of the Secretary of the Air Force for International Affairs at the Pentagon, Jan. 10.

Assistant Secretary of the Air Force (Financial Management and Comptroller), Performing the Duties of Under Secretary of the Air Force Honorable Kristyn Jones, greeted international guests and other department leaders during a luncheon as part of the event.

In opening remarks, Assistant Deputy Under Secretary of the Air Force for International Affairs Maj. Gen. Julian Cheaterexpressed gratitude to the esteemed panelists as he highlighted the important contributions of women in diplomacy and foreign policy.

“We are truly honored to have ambassadors to the United States and their representatives from several partner nations on the stage to share their regional perspectives, thoughts on gender considerations in foreign policy, and personal and professional journeys as they reached the highest levels of diplomatic leadership,” Cheater said.

During the forum, three current or former ambassadors to the United States and a British Embassy Washington senior official served as contributing panelists: Kuwaiti Ambassador Shaikha Al-Zain Al-Sabah; Netherlands Ambassador Birgitta Tazelaar; Indian Deputy Ambassador Sripriya Ranganathan; and United Kingdom Minister Counsellor for Foreign, Security and Development Policy Lucy Ferguson.

Al-Sabah elaborated on what it means to be the first woman in Kuwait holding the position of the highest-ranking representative to the United States.

See WOMEN, Page 11

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Photo by Andy Morataya

Three current or former ambassadors to the United States and a British Embassy Washington senior official served as contributing panelists at the 2024 Women in Peace and Diplomacy event hosted by the Office of the Secretary of the Air Force for International Affairs at the Pentagon, Jan. 10.

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INFORMATION, TICKETS

& TRAVEL

OCA

WE CARRY TICKETS!

� i=•aF0

iic E

SUPPORT SQUADRON

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Firefighters assigned to the 6th Civil Engineering Squadron simulate rescuing a downed firefighter as part of rapid intervention training at MacDill Air F focuses on rescuing injured or trapped firefighters during fire emergencies.

Rapid Intervention Training key to excellence for MacDill firefi story and photos by Senior Airman Michael Killian 6th Air Refueling Wing

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he 6th Civil Engineer Squadron’s fire department conducts rapid intervention training (RIT) as part of its mission to ensure the highest level of readiness and efficiency when responding to emergencies. This specialized training is a critical component in maintaining the safety and effectiveness of the 6th Air Refueling Wing.

Rapid intervention training focuses on rescuing injured or trapped firefighters during fire emergencies. Air Force Staff Sgt. Hunter Larson, a lead firefighter assigned to the 6th CES, explained the importance of RIT. “It’s about being prepared for the worst-case scenarios.” Larsen said. “Our teams practice rigorous scenarios to ensure that if a firefighter is down, we have a quick and effective response mechanism.”

In a job where every second counts, RIT emphasizes proficiency in high-pressure

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situations, and understanding complex situations like structu ity is low, and the risk of injury is high.

“Our training prepares us for these intense environments,” larly undergo drills that mimic real-life scenarios, ensuring second nature.”

As a lead firefighter, Larson plays a pivotal role in coord sponse during emergencies. His leadership ensures that his and equipped to handle residential fires to larger structural e “I’m responsible for scene assessment and directing our c reinforces our teamwork and decision-making skills which i environments.”

See

Force Base Jan. 11. RIT

ighters

ural fires, where visibil-

” Larson said. “We regug our reactions become

dinating the team’s res team is well-prepared emergencies. crew,” Larson said. “RIT is crucial in high-stress

e FIREFIGHTERS, Page 16

A firefighter from the 6th Civil Engineering Squadron simulates rescuing a downed firefighter as part of rapid intervention training at MacDill Force Base Jan. 11. RIT focuses on assisting downed firefighters while staying safe.

Firefighters from the 6th Civil Engineering Squadron simulate rescuing a downed firefighter as part of rapid intervention training at MacDill Air Force Base Jan. 11. RIT focuses on rescuing injured or trapped firefighters during fire emergencies.

MENTOR From Page 2

“Kellum’s really the reason I was able to rank up to Staff Sergeant this year.” said Frierdich, a flying crew chief assigned to the 100th Aircraft Maintenance Squadron at Royal Air Force Base Mildenhall. “When he and I were on deployment together, he taught me pretty much everything I needed to know about the new air frame extremely quickly and would take time out of his day to help us.”

As he approaches his ninth year in the Air Force, Kellum eyes the future with ambition and a sense of duty. He hopes to go to training bases like Sheppard Air Force Base, where he can share his technical and interpersonal skills with the next generation of crew chiefs.

“Every situation requires an equal, nuanced and thoughtful response,” said Kellum. “You can’t just handle everything with a hammer, when warranted I try to always treat people with compassion.”

Staff Sergeant Ben Kellum’s story is more than a tale of technical mastery; it’s a testament to the power of dedicated leadership and the impact one individual can have on shaping the future of the Air Force’s maintenance corps. His journey reflects a commitment not just to the mission but to the people who make it possible.

For Kellum and the airmen he mentors, the sky isn’t the limit; it’s just the beginning.

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Photo by Senior Airman Michael Killian

U.S. Air Force Staff Sgt. Benjamin Kellum, a crew chief assigned to the 6th Aircraft Maintenance Squadron, teaches Airman 1st Class Jacob Scott, a crew chief assigned to the 6th AMXS, about components on a KC-135 Stratotanker at MacDill Air Force Base Jan. 16. The 6th AMXS empowers its senior members to mentor and train its new airmen as much as possible to ensure proficiency across all maintenance shops.

Photo by Senior Airman Michael Killian

U.S. Air Force Staff Sgt. Benjamin Kellum, a flying crew chief assigned to the 6th Aircraft Maintenance Squadron, poses for a photo in front of a KC-135 Stratotanker at MacDill Air Force Base Jan. 16. The 6th AMXS empowers its senior members to mentor and train its new airmen as much as possible to ensure proficiency across all maintenance shops.

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WOMEN From Page 6

“Everything I’ve done, every career step I’ve taken, was very much about building bridges,” Al-Sabah said. “And if that’s not diplomacy, then I do not know what is. I give credit to the leaders who identified this trait, who called me to duty again, but also want to make sure we all realize that sometimes we are faced with challenges and new opportunities that we never thought we would occupy. It is all a part of our larger configuration.”

With three decades of political affairs, human rights, and development cooperation experience, Tazelaar shared some of the important decisions she made that led her to becoming an ambassador and the people who served as her inspiration.

“What really was important for me was to have role models,” Tazelaar said. “We all know people like Eleanor Roosevelt and others right here. I had heroes in my ministry, but I also had to realize my first role model was Pippi Longstocking. From the moment I entered the ministry, the whole policy towards gender equality was really taking form, and there were a lot of things the ministry did in order to assist women to go to higher places within the ministry.”

The forum continued with Ranganathan sharing notable moments in her journey that would become pivotal for her career.

“At the Department of Commerce, I got a glimpse of life outside of the core political work that we tend to do as a career diplomat,” Ranganathan said. “That was a great experience in terms of figuring out how the rest of government works and why the work of diplomacy is important, not just for foreign policy but for domestic development as well. A second career-shaping moment came back at the capitol when I was looking after managing our relations with two of our neighboring countries. In the process of figuring out how to manage those relationships and how to make them really flourish and blossom, I blossomed as a diplomat as well.”

The 2024 Women in Peace and Diplomacy Panel helps enhance women’s voices as they discuss diplomatic efforts, perspectives, and critical responses to address the root causes of conflict.

Photo by Andy Morataya

Three current or former ambassadors to the United States and a British Embassy Washington senior official served as contributing panelists at the 2024 Women in Peace and Diplomacy event hosted by the Office of the Secretary of the Air Force for International Affairs at the Pentagon, Jan. 10.

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CMSAF From Page 3

U.S. Air Force photo

Robert D. Gaylor, the fifth Chief Master Sergeant of the Air Force, passed away Jan. 17 at the age of 93. Among his numerous achievements as CMSAF, he played a significant role in the creation of the Air Force’s new maternity uniform and pushed for a policy change allowing junior enlisted Airmen undergoing a permanent change of station to transport their families at the government’s expense.

Academy, and established the U.S. Air Forces in Europe Command Management and Leadership Center.

Following his retirement in 1979, Gaylor never wavered in his commitment to the Air Force community, remaining actively involved with Airmen and their families through organizations, like the Air Force Memorial Foundation and the Air Force Sergeants Association. He continued to meet with Airmen for the remainder of his life, advocating tirelessly for the well-being and professional development of those who served.

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BAHRAIN From Page 5

ing our ability to integrate and employ airpower across the coalition,” said U.S. Air Force Brig.

Gen. Quaid Quadri, 378th Air Expeditionary Wing Commander.

“Together with our allies and partners, we continue to maintain and propel forward enduring institutions and networks necessary to remain agile and effective,” Quadri continued. “By constantly integrating with our partners at the tactical edge, while still testing our expeditionary capabilities, we are building readiness and developing operational approaches that complicate the adversary’s problem as well as maintains our strategic advantage.”

The long-standing relationships the U.S. Air Force has developed within the U.S. Central Command area of responsibility enables regular and routine training, which advances the coalition’s ability to become a seamless operational force across every warfighting domain.

Incorporating Agile Combat Employment concepts into the Ballast Cannon series support combined training and operations focused on enhancing strategic basing capabilities and strengthening coalition interoperability.

Photo by Tech. Sgt. Megan Floyd

A U.S. Air Force F-16 Fighting Falcon goes through final checks following the arrival at an undisclosed location in the U.S. Central Command area of responsibility in preparation for Exercise Ballast Cannon, Jan. 6. The long-standing relationships the U.S. Air Force has developed within the CENTCOM AOR enables regular and routine training which advances the coalition’s ability to become a seamless operational force across every warfighting domain.

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COMMUNITY

EVENTS

MacDill Wingman Day The Short Fitness Center will be hosting a Tailgate Party and 6th ARW Wing Sports Day on Jan. 26 from 7:15 a.m. – 2:45 p.m. as part of Wingman Day. For a full list of events and the sign-up link, visit macdillfss.com/short-fitness-center.

MacDill Youth Center survey The MacDill Youth Center would appreciate your feedback. Visit surveymonkey.com/r/7FGY5C6 to answer this short 5 question survey.

Family fun nights are back Come celebrate Family Fun Night on Friday, Feb. 9 at SeaScapes from 5–8 p.m. This will be a Clowning Around theme complete with DJ, clowns, balloon artist and buffet. Visit bit.ly/FebFamNight_24 for details.

Bay Palms golf tournament The Bay Palms Golf Course will be hosting the “It’s Almost Spring Classic” on the south course on Feb. 10. Teams of two will play modified alternate shots holes 1-9 and scramble holes 10-18. Price includes green fees, cart, lunch, and prizes.

Advanced green fee holders $25, active duty and retirees $50 and civilians $60. Visit the Pro Shop to sign up your team today.

January base theater movies Your MacDill Base Library is offering free movies at the base theater this month. Movies are open to anyone with base access to MacDill AFB. For a complete movie schedule, visit macdillfss.com/library/.

Find more events at: macdillfss.com

The Champ!

Photo by Senior Airman Joshua Hastings

The 6th Air Refueling Wing command team recognizes U.S. Air Force Airman 1st Class Emma Porter, 6th Healthcare Operations Squadron pediatrics aerospace medical technician, and Paolo Melendez, 6th Medical Support Squadron medical facility manager, as Champions of the Week at MacDill Air Force Base Jan. 16. Porter and Melendez were recognized for identifying a water leak at the installation’s medical clinic and coming in after hours during the holidays to prevent extensive damage.

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, January 25, 2024 u WWW.MACDILLTHUNDERBOLT.COM u 15

FIREFIGHTERS From Page 8

The use of advanced equipment, such as the Personal Accountability System (PAS) is an integral part of RIT. This device alerts rescuers to a firefighter’s location if they stop moving for more than 60 seconds.

Nicholas Dunlap, a lead firefighter assigned to the 6th CES explained, “The PAS device is a game-changer. It significantly increases our chances of quickly locating and rescuing a downed firefighter.”

The fire department at MacDill is committed to staying up to date on the latest firefighting technology. “Firefighting is an evolving field.” Dunlap remarked. “We continuously update our training to deal with modern materials and fire behavior.”

According to Larson, the rigorous training schedule at the fire department prepares firefighters to respond to emergencies immediately noting, “firefighting is physically demanding and pretty stressful. Our daily training and focus on fitness help mitigate risks like cardiac arrest, which is common in high-stress environments.”

Thanks to the rigorous training and emphasis on safety, the MacDill fire department boasts an impressive safety record. Dunlap proudly noted, “In my 17 years here, we’ve not had a firefighter go down during an operation, a testament to our training and preparedness.”

The effectiveness of RIT has broader implications for the base’s overall mission. “Our readiness directly impacts the safety and operational capacity of the 6th Air Refueling Wing.” Dunlap said. “By ensuring our team is prepared for any eventuality, we contribute to the base’s overall mission success.”

The rapid intervention training at MacDill Air Force Base exemplifies the 6th CES’s fire departments commitment to excellence. Through rigorous training, advanced equipment, and an emphasis on teamwork and leadership, the firefighters at MacDill are well-equipped to handle emergencies, contributing significantly to the accomplishment of the base’s mission and priorities.

AWARDS From Page 3

The following decorations will be processed in myDecs Reimagined. Others may be added in the future: • Air and Space Meritorious Service Medal Air and Space Commendation Medal • Air and Space Achievement Medal • Aerial Achievement Medal • Combat Readiness Medal • Military Outstanding Volunteer Service Medal Airmen and Guardians should visit myDecs Reimagined by going to myFSS and selecting “myDecs” for more information.

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News

“Refuel the Force”

6th Force Support Squadron’s Monthly Highlights – a Supplement to the MacDill AFB Thunderbolt

FEBRUARY ‘24

6th Force Support Squadron Telephone Extensions Prefix 828

Commander....................................... 2823 Deputy ................................................ 2823 Ops Officer......................................... 2703 Mortuary Affairs.............................. 6597 Unit Readiness ............................... 2252 Senior Enlisted Leader.....................3969 Honor Guard ....................................5190 First Sergeant.....................................4153 Marketing & Publicity.......................3055 Military & Family Readiness Flight..0134 Military & Family Readiness Ctr ......0145 Child & Youth Services Flight.......5097 Child Development Ctr 1.................. 3332 Child Development Ctr 2 ................. 2244 Child Development Ctr 3 ..................0195 Family Child Care .............................. 7760 School Age Care................................. 5971 Youth Center...................................... 7956 Civilian Personnel Flight................4286 Civilian Personnel .............................6090 Human Resource Office (NAF) .........2911 Community Services Flight............2921 Arts & Crafts Center..........................4413 Auto Hobby Shop ................... 373-6545 Wood Hobby Shop .........................2093 Bay Palms Golf Complex ................0046 8 Iron Grill.........................................1507 Information, Tickets & Travel ...............2478 MacDill Bowling Lanes.....................4005 Hangar 6 Grill ...................................7735 Outdoor Recreation/Equip Rental/ FamCamp ................................ 840-6919 Pool............................................769-9901 Marina ....................................... 840-1513 Skeet Range............................... 488-1244 Force Development Flight ............. 7320 Airman Leadership School.............. 2299 Base Theater...................................... 3607 Education .............................................3115 Library................................................. 3607 Professional Development...............1229 Training ...............................................4004 Manpower/Org Flight ..................... 9977 Manpower ............................................3711 Military Personnel Flight CAC Appointment Line ............... 828-6673 6fss.fsmps.deersidcards@us.af.mil Resource Mgmt Flight.....................1449 Private Organizations....................... 6962 Sustainment Services Flight ..........0034 2 Brews Catering...................... 840-2020 Diner’s Reef Dining Facility...............2412 Flight Meals....................................4998 Fitness Center...................................4496 MacDill Inn - Lodging........................ 4259 Rickenbacker’s ..............................7425 SeaScapes Restaurant ............. 840-1451 Breakaway Event Ctr/Boomers .. 840-2020

macdillfss.com

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6FSS NEWS

February ‘24

ARTS & CRAFT CENTER • (813) 828-4413

PERFECT GIFTS FOR YOUR 2 & 4 LEGGED SWEETHEARTS!

"And they called it puppy love."

— Paul Anka

"Woof you be mine?"

Awards | Laser Engraving | Trophies | Framing | Plaques | Plates | Custom Wood Items Shadowboxes | Flag Boxes | Coin Racks | Challenge Coins | Art Classes | Graphic Design AND MUCH MORE!

ary u r b e F At Outdoor Recreation, Bldg. 2017 at 10-11am February 9 - Heart Stones (All Ages, $10) February 23 - Patriotic Photo Frame (All Ages, $10)

Please register in person or by phone at least 3 business days in advance.

Register at Arts & Crafts Center (813) 828-4413.

Staying at the FamCamp? Attend classes for FREE by registering at the FamCamp office.

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

Golf Tune Up Tuesdays Come on out and keep your game dialed in a group environment.

Begin with 30 minutes on the range followed by 30 minutes on the short game areas. Regardless of your skill level, this is a great opportunity to sharpen your golf skills. From beginners to experienced players, you’ll benefit from having another set of eyes to help improve your game.

Space is limited. Sign-up at the Pro Shop for a time convenient for you!

MARK YOUR CALENDARS...

CLUB CHAMPIONSHIP 2-3 March

Every Tuesday Four Sessions Available: 11AM-12PM, 12PM-1PM, 5PM-6PM, 6PM-7PM $40 per person 8 person limit per session (813) 828-0046

FREE ACTIVE DUTY CLINIC

12-1pm Select Wednedays (Feb 14th & 28th • Mar 13th & 27th) at the golf course driving range.

Open to service members and their immediate families.

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6FSS NEWS

February ‘24

BONANZA BINGO

ESM Welcome!

$500

COMING SOON!

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NEW!

Fresh Baked Spinach & Feta Pastry Chocolate Croissant

Jackpot

Cherry Greek Yogurt Danish

Coming Soon!

OPEN

Located Inside the Breakaway Event Center

WED-FRI 3-8PM

NEW!

Blueberry Cream Cheese Danish

OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK! Open Mon-Fri 7AM-2:30PM | Sat & Sun 7AM-2PM Rickenbacker's Cafe Serves...

G o urm e t Co f f e e & Te a | E spr esso | Fr appu cci n o Bak e ry I t e ms | Bre akfast San dwi ch es G rab & G o S nac k s | Deli San dwi ch es

Food | Full Bar | Pool Tables TVs | Thursday Billiards & BBQ | Friday Stampede

Bounce Back Menu Featuring... Salads, Wings, Nachos & MORE!

Located inside the MacDill Inn

LOCAL LOCA CAL CRAFT CRAF CR AFT T BEERS BEER BE ERS S & COCKTAILS COCK CKTA EN 7 DAYS DAY AYS S A WEEK WEEK • 3-10PM 3-10PM OPEN

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6FSS NEWS

4

February ‘24

INFORMATION, TICKETS & TRAVEL

Ticket Counter: (813) 828-2478

Leisure Travel Office: (813) 828-1860

https://macdillfss.com/information-tickets-travel/

UNIVERSAL MARDI GRAS: INTERNATIONAL FLAVORS OF CARNAVAL New Food, Floats & Fun at Universal Mardi Gras It’s a Grooveable Feast at Universal Mardi Gras Join the party at Universal Mardi Gras, Feb. 3 - Apr. 7, for nonstop fun with global eats*, music beats and floats parading down the streets.

The Time to Book Your Spring Break Vacation Is Right Now - Military Discount.

All Positions Starting At

$15/HR or Higher

NEW YEAR NEW CAREER!

HOSPI TALI T Y ADMINIST RAT I V E REC R EAT I O N C H I L D & YO U T H

Benefits include: Access to on base facilities, bowling, fitness center, golf and tax free shopping. PLUS MUCH MORE!

macdillfss.com/open-jobs/

@macdillfss 4

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“LETS GET WILD”

Universal elements and all related indicia TM & © 2024 Universal Studios. All rights reserved.

Event occurs rain or shine. No rain checks, returns or refunds. Prices, times, dates, entertainment, event and/or experience details are subject to changes and/or cancellation without notice.

Additional restrictions may apply.

WWW.MACDILLTHUNDERBOLT.COM u Thursday, January 25, 2024 u MACDILL THUNDERBOLT

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