Vol. 51, No. 45
Thursday, November 9, 2023
News/Features: page 2 Dedication to healthcare
News/Features: page 3 MacDill ID office tops in AF
Week in photos: page 4 Images from the week
Bucs visit
Community: page 15 Events, Chapel, more...
Photo by Airman 1st Class Sterling Sutton
Airmen assigned to the 6th Maintenance Squadron fabrication flight demonstrate capabilities to Tampa Bay Buccaneers players and staff members at MacDill Air Force Base Oct. 31. The Tampa Bay Buccaneers players visited multiple units at MacDill and signed memorabilia for members on the installation.
NEWS/FEATURES
Behind the scenes of military medicine by Senior Airman Lauren Cobin 6th Air Refueling Wing Public Affairs
Charged with providing radiologic imaging for 265K beneficiaries, managing a $3.5M archival system for eight tele-sites across the Department of Defense, all while training students to operate a $2M computed tomography machine, Senior Airman Kendra Ward is no stranger to the fast-paced world of military healthcare. Kendra Ward stands out as a shining example of dedication, skill, and versatility. Serving as an X-ray and CT technologist while also managing the Picture Archiving and Communications System (PACS) at the 6th Medical Support Squadron, she plays a crucial role in ensuring the health and well-being of military personnel and their families across the DoD. Ward’s journey into the world of healthcare began with a strong desire to serve her country and make a meaningful impact on the lives of others. After enlisting in the United States Air Force, she embarked on a rigorous training program to become a medical professional in the field of radiology. Her determination and commitment See MEDICINE, Page 11
U.S. Air Force courtesy photo
U.S. Air Force Senior Airman Kendra Ward, 6th Medical Support Squadron X-ray and CT technologist, works with Dr. Paul Velt, assigned to the 6th MDSS at MacDill Air Force Base Sept. Ward has been recognized for providing radiologic imaging for 265K beneficiaries, managing a $3.5M archival system for eight tele-sites across the Department of Defense, all while training students to operate a $2 million computed tomography machine.
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 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 ID card office ranked no. 1 in Department of Air Force by Airman 1st Class Zachary Foster 6th Air Refueling Wing Public Affairs The 6th Force Support Squadron identification card section was named the highest performing Department of the Air Force team in its field for the 2023 fiscal year. With more than 40,000 ID cards produced, the 6th FSS ID card team dominated their closest competitor by more than 15,000. Leading the charge was Tech Sgt. Chauncey Griffin and Staff Sgt. Christopher Cobb, 6th FSS military personnel flight site security managers. Over the last six months, the duo has transformed the office into the multi-capable team working today. According to Cobb, by focusing their efforts on efficiency and customer service, the team was able to create an atmosphere that was positive for both the customer and the Airmen. “The biggest change that we’ve made was bringing in a different leadership style for the Airmen,” Cobb said. “We’ve started to take a more handson role in management, and we’ve looked to them for feedback.” The duo started by honing their focus on service members, ensuring the process is quick and prioritizes active-duty service members. The goal was to alleviate unnecessary stress on uniformed personnel, giving them the space to focus on their mission. “Traditionally, people had to take an entire day off of work just to get a new ID, but we thought that really wasn’t fair to our customers,” Griffin said. “Our whole job is to try to get people in and out in a quick and efficient manner. We want to get things right the first time, while still providing good customer service.” After solidifying methods for providing services to their core customer, the team shifted their focus towards efficiency. Their first big change was a complete restructuring of their sign-in procedures.
Photo by Airman 1st Class Zachary Foster
U.S. Air Force Tech Sgt. Chauncey Griffin, left, and Staff Sgt. Christopher Cobb, 6th Force Support Squadron military personnel flight site security managers, pose for a photo at MacDill Air Force Base Oct. 30. “Over the course of six months, we started a new sign-in process that has been huge for our ability to see customers,” Cobb said. “The old sign-in had a cost associated with it and required more from our personnel. Now, we’ve eliminated the cost and we’ve expanded the number of customers we can see from 550 to 750 per week.” With a simple shift to an online sign-in, the team was able to create an entirely new customer reception protocol, freeing time for their frontline See ID, Page 13
Defender Flag field exercise tests, validates ground defense operations by Debbie Aragon Air Force Installation and Mission Support Center Public Affairs
FORT BLISS, Texas (AFN)—U.S. Air Force Defenders tested and validated the career field’s operations for base defense in the New Mexico desert Oct. 23-27 during the inaugural Defender Flag field exercise. More than 180 Defenders from every major command participated in the event, thanks to help from support agencies, Headquarters Air Force, the Air Force Installation and Mission Support Center and the Air Force Security Forces Center. The live-fire exercise provided realistic assessment and validation of base defense tactics, techniques and procedures during intense, realistic scenarios, said Lt. Col. Christopher Jackson, chief of the AFSFC’s SecuriSee EXERCISE, Page 10
Photo by Senior Airman Antonio Salfran
Air Force Defenders perform tactical movements during 2023 Defender Flag at Fort Bliss, Texas, Oct. 23. The live-fire field exercise, hosted by the Air Force Security Forces career field and planned and executed by the Air Force Security Forces Center, helped test and validate the care field’s operations for base defense.
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WEEK IN PHOTOS
Photo by Airman 1st Class Zachary Foster
A pilot conducts aerial acrobatics onboard a 8KCAB Super Decathlon during the Orlando Air and Space Show at the Orlando Sanford International Airport Oct. 29. Demonstration team aircrew attend air shows to educate the public on Air Force careers and boost recruiting efforts.
Photo by Airman 1st Class Zachary Foster
Photo by Airman 1st Class Sterling Sutton
U.S. Air Force Airman 1st Class Demetrius Delgado, 6th Security Forces Squadron commercial search member, poses for a photo at MacDill Air Force Base Nov. 1. Defenders are responsible for responding to threats and emergencies across the installation and ensuring the overall security of base personnel and assets.
A military working dog bites U.S. Air Force Staff Sgt. Dale Sammons, 6th Security Forces Squadron military working dog handler, during a demonstration at MacDill Air Force Base Oct. 31. The demonstration was part of a tour for Tampa Bay Buccaneers players and staff members.
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Senate confirms Allvin to be Air Force’s 23rd chief of staff by Charles Pope Secretary of the Air Force Public Affairs WASHINGTON (AFNS)—The U.S. Senate confirmed Gen. David W. Allvin Nov. 2 to be the 23rd Air Force chief of staff, partially breaking through a blockade on all military confirmations to install the decorated commander, strategist and pilot as the service’s highest-ranking officer and uniformed leader. The vote was 95 to 1. Photo by Staff Sgt. Stuart Bright Speaking moments after his confirmation was final, Vice Chief of Staff of the Allvin said, “It is truly an Air Force Gen. David W. honor to be confirmed as the Allvin makes remarks after 23rd Chief of Staff of the Air being sworn in as the Air Force. My wife, Gina, and Force’s 23rd chief of staff I are humbled by this op- at Falcon Stadium, U.S. Air portunity, and we are eager Force Academy, Colorado to continue to serve our Air Springs, Colo., Nov. 2. Force, our Airmen, and their families.” Allvin, who was nominated for the job by President Biden, formerly served as Air Force Vice Chief of Staff. He succeeds Gen. CQ Brown, Jr., who is now serving as chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff. “We are grateful for the stellar examples set by General CQ Brown, Jr., and his wife, Sharene. Gina and I look forward to continuing to serve with them in our new roles,” Allvin said. Allvin also echoed sentiments expressed during a hearing in September when the Senate Armed Services Committee was considering his nomination. “In today’s dynamic environment, our service faces both significant challenges and tremendous opportunities — the world’s greatest Air Force will meet them head-on just as innovative Airmen have done for generations,” he said. Secretary of the Air Force Frank Kendall praised Allvin’s confirmation, history and qualifications to lead the service at a turbulent moment in history. “On behalf of the Department of the Air Force, we welcome General Allvin as the 23rd Chief of Staff of the Air Force,” Kendall said. “He has guided many of our most important initiatives to improve the Air Force, including See CHIEF OF STAFF, Page 12
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NEWS/FEATURES Dyess hones computer skills, strengthens community partnership with Hackathon by Senior Airman Sophia Robello 7th Bomb Wing Public Affairs DYESS AIR FORCE BASE, Texas—Dyess hosted its first Hackathon on October 25, testing Airmen’s skills at creating networks and exploiting vulnerabilities in a controlled environment. The event teaches Airmen from various trades new skills in computer science that may not have been available to them in their career field, while providing students from Hardin-Simmons University real-world experience in network creation and exploitation. “The goal is ultimately for educational purposes,” said Wade Ashby, Hardin-Simmons University professor of computer science. “We began about a month ago having an event on our campus where we set up and secured a network, and then today we’re doing the penetration testing of those networks where we see how to gain access and exploit what’s there.” Members from various squadrons across Dyess collaborated with instructors at HSU to put on the event. Coordination involved acquiring necessary equipment, securing a venue and building servers for the participants to work on during the event.
“We reached out to a few local schools to coordinate this, and HardinSimmons was really excited to participate,” said Tech. Sgt. Ridge Rozier, 317th Airlift Wing wing executive. “Throughout the coordination process, we had to work out the logistics of what equipment to use for the event and whether we could even use older government equipment from the military side. The school actually reached out to outside sources and had equipment donated for the event, which helped us out a lot.” The Hackathon is the first of its kind at Dyess, collaborating with HSU and strengthening the relationships with the local community. Along with educating participants on the knowledge needed to build and exploit network servers, the event brought people with an interest in computer science and hacking together to share ideas and collaborate as a team. “We love partnerships and connecting Hardin-Simmons with the rest of the Abilene community,” said Ashby. “When Dyess reached out and asked if we would help put on the Hackathon, it felt like a no-brainer for us to work together and help Dyess and the local community out as a whole. I’m thankful for the opportunity to be a part of it and I’m hoping it was beneficial for everyone involved.”
Be sure to visit the official 6th Air Refueling Wing website at www.macdill.af.mil
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Vigilant Defense 24:
Accept follow-on
by Tech. Sgt. Emili Koonce 8th Fighter Wing Public Affairs
KUNSAN AIR BASE, South Korea—During the combined flying training event known as Vigilant Defense 24, more than 25 various types of fighters, cargo, tanker and reconnaissance aircraft from the U.S., South Korea and Royal Australian Air Forceare conducting flight operations from South Korea and U.S. bases across the peninsula Oct. 30 – Nov. 3. Vigilant Defense is designed to enhance combined training and to ensure Airmen remain safe in the sky and on the ground by air traffic controllers like U.S. Air Force Tech. Sgt. Paul Gary, 8th Operations Support Squadron air traffic controller senior watch supervisor.“As air traffic controllers, we have to be proficient at coordinating all airframes from fighter to cargo, military or civilian,” Gary said. “We’re always prepared for whatever may come our way, including an increase in air traffic operations during a contingency operation because for us it would be nothing more than practicing how we play.” The center component of Kunsan Air Base’s threepart mission is to “Accept Follow-on Forces” and during a contingency operation, ATC’s ability to coordinate increased flight operations is vital to ensuring efficient and safe reception of those forces. “I think it is important for Airmen to step away from exercises like this with the ability to remain flexible in situations that take you outside of your comfort zone. You may have to adapt and follow someone else’s lead in a dynamic situation, and doing so could be the difference in saving or losing lives while coordinating aircraft.” Controllers provide pilots with their flight and landing information along with weather reports all while deconflicting landing and air space congestion within their zone of responsibility. Gary explains how working together is essential to performing ATC operations. “Building teams is particularly important,” Gary said. “The person on your left and right needs to be on the same page as you.” Combat flying training events are regularly scheduled training events designed to enhance the readiness of U.S. and South Korea forces and sustain capabilities, which strengthen the South Korea-U.S. alliance.
U.S. Air Force Staff Sgt. Eric Sadowski, 8th Operations Support Squadron air traffic contro watch supervisor, observe an F-16 Fighting Falcon as it taxis before takeoff during Vigilant flying training events are regularly scheduled training events designed to enhance the readin strengthen the South Korea-U.S. alliance.
Photo by Staff Sgt. Samuel Earick
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Photo by Staff Sgt. Samuel Earick
ol watch supervisor, and Tech. Sgt. Paul Gary, 8th OSS ATC senior Defense 24 at Kunsan Air Base, South Korea, Oct. 30. Combined ness of U.S. and South Korea forces and sustain capabilities, which (Far left) U.S. Air Force Staff Sgt. Eric Sadowski, 8th Operations Support Squadron air traffic control watch supervisor, observes the takeoff of an F-16 Fighting Falcon during Vigilant Defense 24 at Kunsan Air Base, South Korea, Oct. 30. (Left) U.S. Air Force Senior Airman David McCall, 8th Operations Support Squadron air traffic controller, uses binoculars to conduct a visual inspection of the flightline during Vigilant Defense 24 at Kunsan Air Base, South Korea, Oct. 29. Photo by Staff Sgt. Samuel Earick
Photo by Staff Sgt. Samuel Earick
The Kunsan Air Base air traffic control tower provides a vantage point of flight operations for air traffic controllers during Vigilant Defense 24 at Kunsan AB, South Korea, Oct. 30. Combined flying training events are regularly scheduled training events designed to enhance the readiness of U.S. and South Korea forces and sustain capabilities, which strengthen the South Korea-U.S. alliance.
EXERCISE From Page 3
ty Forces Training Support Division and event lead for both Defender Flag and Defender Challenge. It also tested and evaluated new concepts, TTPs and equipment, identifying potential gaps and needed changes to career field training curriculum. The field exercise was conducted simultaneously with Defender Challenge, the security forces competition to determine the best-of-the-best in combat tactics, weapons proficiency and physical endurance. Both events, hosted by the Air Force Security Forces career field, were planned and executed by the AFSFC. The team members who
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helped put together Defender Flag had a tremendous amount of pressure on their shoulders, Jackson said. “The countless members of the team who helped put together Defender Flag knew how important the event would be to help us get ready for the next fight,” the lieutenant colonel said. “They knew the mission planning was absolutely critical and even more important was collecting data we can use for TTPs to inform training and equipment we’ll need for the future fight.” “The fight of yesterday looks different than what is needed for the fight of tomorrow,” said Brig. Gen.
Thomas Sherman, Air Force director of security forces. “Strategic competition is our primary national security challenge and events like Defender Flag and Defender Challenge are paramount to our career field’s success.” The security forces career field is in an evolutionary period, he added, so holding Defender Flag at this time was important. “This exercise is helping the career field assess Defender skillsets in challenging environments and testing innovative tactics to solve difficult problems,” Sherman said, with lessons applied across the force. “We realize that the threats we’re seeing in strategic competition and the way the world is around us calls for a change. It calls for us to relook at ourselves and who we are, how we look at base defense and how we see ourselves as being the greatest contribution to the U.S. Air Force. What Defenders did during both events displayed our
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potential,” Sherman said. “We’re setting the course for the future … identifying what we are incredible at, the areas where we have gaps and how we need to sharpen our sword to be prepared for what lies ahead.” Much has changed with security forces operations and training since 2015, said Chief Master Sgt. Donnie Gallagher, security forces career field manager, and “Defender Flag is arguably the most important thing going on right now in Defender Nation. “We’re getting after things from a different mindset, trying to really see where we’re at,” the chief said. “Are we as good as we think we are, or do we have a lot of work to do? What we did last week will lay the foundation for things to come on how we evolve as a career field to get after the base defense mission, which has become our primary purpose.” For the chief, Defender Flag was an eye-opening
experience. “It really pointed out some things we need to get after, maybe in our training environment at home station versus what we do at some of our readiness training venues,” he said. “It validated the importance of physical fitness. The sheer weight of our weapons, armor and heavy equipment points to the importance of being at the peak point of fitness. Therefore, we are looking at different physical training program options to reinforce this fact.” For tactics and other aspects of security forces operations, “we need to get out the honing stone and sharpen the sword … but we’re looking pretty good,” Gallagher said. Both Defender Flag and Defender Challenge are helping to make sure Defenders are trained and ready for the future fight. They validated everything the Air Force did after the former Defender Next-32 Initiative, which directed a more challenging and realistic training curriculum for Defenders, the chief explained. “The strategy General Sherman is forming today will reshape what we’re getting after and how we support air power throughout the world,” Gallagher said. “We’re more than any law enforcement agency. Our biggest mission is getting after our peer-peer, near-peer global competitors. Change is coming.”
MEDICINE From Page 2
led her to specialize in X-ray and CT technology - areas that are vital in diagnosing and treating a wide range of medical conditions. “I am forever grateful for getting this job,” said Ward. “The opportunities it grants us with being able to gain national registries to work in the civilian world is truly a blessing.” As an X-ray and CT technician, Ward plays a pivotal role in the diagnostic process. She is responsible for capturing detailed images of the human body, allowing medical professionals to identify injuries, illnesses, and abnormalities. Her technical skills and attention to detail are critical in providing accurate and timely diagnoses, which are essential for effective patient care. “She is proficient in radiation protection procedures, performing Xrays, dual X-ray absorptiometry (DEXA) scans, and fluoroscopic studies,” said Tech. Sgt. Aleta Negron, diagnostic imaging flight chief with the 6th Medical Support Squadron. “She is also an expert at starting IVs to perform computed tomography (CAT scans/CT scans) involving intravenous and oral contrast.” Ward also manages PACS, enabling healthcare professionals quick and secure access to medical images and patient data for more than 610K DoD beneficiaries. Her responsibilities include overseeing the maintenance of the PACS infrastructure, troubleshooting technical issues, and ensuring the security and confidentiality of patient data. Her ability to provide accurate diagnostic images and ensure the accessibility of critical medical data significantly enhances the medical group’s ability to deliver high-quality healthcare services.
“Senior Airman Ward is one of the humblest Airman you will ever meet,” explained Negron. “Her goal is to get the job done and to do it well. Ward embodies what it means to be a lifelong learner and never stops asking what she can do for her flight. She is a behind the scenes force that goes unnoticed until things begin to break, and you need her expertise. I am very proud of the Airman that Ward is and what she is to become.” Kendra’s dedication to her profession, her adaptability in managing multiple responsibilities and her commitment to excellence make her an exemplary asset to the Air Force. Her contributions not only impact the lives of patients but also contribute to the overall mission readiness of the military. “The most rewarding part of my job is getting to help people,” said Ward. “Knowing that without imaging most patients would not be able to receive a diagnosis makes me want to create the best imaging possible in order for our patients to receive the best care they can.” “Every single person plays such an important role in our flight and without all of their hard work and dedication we would not be able to operate and create the best care for our patient,” she emphasized. As a dedicated and skilled medical professional, Ward embodies the core values of the United States Air Force: integrity first, service before self, and excellence in all we do. Her unwavering commitment to these principles ensures that military personnel and their families receive the best possible care, making her a true asset to the 6th MDG and the broader military healthcare community.
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CHIEF OF STAFF From Page 6
recruiting and operations.Kristyn Jones and I have full confidence in his leadership, integrity, and ability to lead the Air Force as we continue our efforts to modernize and overcome the challenges that threaten our continued security and prosperity. We also express our gratitude to Gina and the Allvin family as they have supported him through numerous challenging assignments and frequent moves.” Chief of Space Operations Gen. Chance Saltzman joined Air Force leaders in celebrating the confirmation. “The dynamic challenges we all face will require strategic thinking like General Allvin’s to overcome, and I consider the Space Force fortunate to have him as a teammate,” Saltzman said. “Partnerships like ours will remain a key component to our shared success, and I look forward to continuing our work together.” With confirmation comes the full legal authority to organize, train and equip Airmen to meet the current and emerging security needs of the nation, allies, and partners. Allvin told the Senate Armed Services Committee that he would push to continue modernizing the service and refine policies and practices that touch on everything from operations to quality of life for Airmen and their families. “Our nation is coming to grips with the rapid pace of change that is upon us, and with those intending to act out against our national interests while aggressively seeking the means to do so,” Allvin told the committee. “America’s national security focus is crucial as we navigate this new global landscape with our allies and partners, especially as opportunities for distraction and confusion are increasingly exploited.” Allvin has a deep and accomplished record as an Air Force officer with 37 years of experience in a wide variety of important and demanding roles. A 1986 graduate of the Air Force Academy, Allvin is a command pilot with more than 4,600 flight hours in over 30 aircraft, including 800 test flight hours and 100 flight hours in combat. He has commanded at the squadron and wing levels, which included serving as the commander for the 97th Air Mobility Wing and 618th Air and Space Operations Center. He also held major command staff assignments and served in several Joint Staff positions, including as commanding general for the NATO Air Training Command – Afghanistan and NATO Training Mission-Afghanistan/ Combined Security Transition Command-Afghanistan, and commander for the 438th Air Expeditionary Wing. Allvin has served as the director for Strategy and Policy for Headquarters U.S. European Command and director for Strategy, Plans, and Policy, Joint Staff. Most recently, he served as Vice Chief of Staff of the U.S. Air Force. 12
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ID
From Page 3
Airmen and allowing for more time to focus on making the customer’s overall experience positive. Next, the duo focused on syncing their protocols with agencies outside their walls. Commander’s support staff are embedded within individual units, each with separate inprocessing requirements for their Airmen. Griffin took on the responsibility to develop an open dialogue between units and the centralized military personnel flight, streamlining the “gaining” process for the entire installation. “This has been a game changer because we’re now able to gain service members within their first 24 hours on the base,” Griffin said. Over the course of six months, the team completely redeveloped their procedures for military personnel. Now, according to Cobb, the duo is looking towards their retirees, civilians and dependents to tackle their next challenge. “What we’re working on now is navigating the process of installing a new sign-in for our regular or non-military customPhoto by Airman 1st Class Zachary Foster ers,” Cobb said. “We’re working to mimic the system seen in A customer service specialist at the 6th Force Support Squadron passes an ID card to the MacDill] pharmacy so we can reduce the learning curve.” a customer at MacDill Air Force Base Oct. 30. The 6th FSS identification card office was According to Griffin, the new system is inspired by the named the highest performing Department of the Air Force team for the 2023 fiscal year. current medical system and is designed to synchronize procedures across the installation. The updated reception software would still prioritize military personnel but would A 6th Force Support Squadcompletely free Airmen to focus on helping their customers. ron patch is worn at MacDill The team’s improvements haven’t gone unnoticed. AcAir Force Base Oct. 30. The cording to Cobb, a recent survey revealed that the ID card 6th FSS identification card office’s customer satisfaction rate is up 24% in the last six office was named the highmonths, reflecting a 98% positive customer experience. est performing Department The 6th FSS ID card office is just one example of units of the Air Force team for across MacDill embracing and localizing Gen. Charles Q. the 2023 fiscal year. Brown’s “Accelerate Change or Lose” ideology. The 6th Air Refueling Wing is dedicated to creating more efficient practices to ensure the nation’s ability to deploy and sustain military forces, deterring our adversaries and assuring their allies and partners. Photo by Airman 1st Class Zachary Foster
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COMMUNITY
EVENTS
Veteran’s Day holiday closures For a full list of 6 Force Support Squadron program facilities, dining options, and recreational facility closures for Veteran’s weekend, visit macdillfss.com/veteransday_23. pdf. Youth soccer registration Youth co-ed soccer registration is now open for ages 5-12 now through Dec, 22. Youth Center member cost is $50 and non-member cost is $60. For more information, contact Youth Center Sports at 828-7958 or visit macdillfss.com/youth/. Education Center open house Stop by the Education Center, 8102 Condor Street (building 252), on Nov. 15 between 11 a.m.– 2 p.m. and learn from the following representatives: Base Education Center & Training, Professional Development, Library, GI Bill, Army Education, Financial Aid, Embry Riddle University, Hillsborough Community College, and Saint Leo University. For more information, visit bit.ly/EdCtrOpenHouse. Turkey Trot 3K/5K The Short Fitness Center will be a hosting a Turkey Trot 3K/5K on Thursday, Nov. 16 starting in the South Field at 6:45 a.m. Participants are encouraged to wear festive/fall color attire or physical fitness uniform. The top female/ male in both the 3K and 5K will be awarded a prize. Visit macdillfss. com/short-fitness-center/ for details. Find more events at macdillfss.com
Engine swap!
Photo by Senior Airman Joshua Hastings
Airmen assigned to the 6th Aircraft Maintenance Squadron replace an engine on a KC-135 Stratotanker at MacDill Air Force Base Oct. 27. The KC-135 has four engines with each providing over 21,000 pounds of thrust.
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, November 9, 2023 u WWW.MACDILLTHUNDERBOLT.COM u 15
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