Vol. 51, No. 48
Thursday, November 23, 2023
News/Features: page 2 The madness we survive
News/Features: page 3 Atlantic Trident 2023
Week in photos: page 4 Images from the week
Photo by Airman 1st Class Zachary Foster
Community: page 15 Events, Chapel, more...
A KC-135 Stratotanker assigned to the 6th Air Refueling Wing refuels an F-16C Fighting Falcon assigned to the 20th Fighter Wing over South Carolina, Nov. 15. In an air-to-surface role, the F-16 can fly more than 500 miles, deliver its weapons with superior accuracy, defend itself against enemy aircraft, and return to its starting point.
NEWS/FEATURES
The madness we survive by Senior Airman Joshua Hastings 6th Air Refueling Wing Public Affairs A renewed spirit and avidity to resume the life she previously had consumed Senior Airman Matilyn Million as she closed her most difficult chapter. On Sept. 18, 2023, Million underwent her 12th and final chemotherapy treatment in Tampa, Florida. “It was a surreal moment,” Million said. “I hugged my mom and cried. You got to ring a bell when you were done, so I rang the bell. I am happy I do not have to go back to that place.” For the majority of the year, Million has battled stage III Hodgkin’s lymphoma, a cancer that affects the lymphatic system and causes swollen lymph nodes and growths throughout the body. Million, now 21 years old, discovered symptoms of her cancer in September 2022. “One day I grabbed my neck and felt a lump inside,” Million said. “I did not think much of it right away. After that, I was on a Facetime call with my mom and she asked me what was on my neck. That was when I became concerned.” Million proceeded by calling her supervisor at the 6th Medical Support Squadron laboratory, who encouraged her to seek medical attention immediately. “I spent four hours in the emergency room that night,” Million said. “After drawing my blood and performing an ultrasound on my neck, the doctor diagnosed me with mono. I remember crying on the way home thinking, ‘Oh no, not mono.’” After a follow-up appointment with her primary care manager, MilSee SURVIVE, Page 14
Photo by Senior Airman Joshua Hastings
U.S. Air Force Senior Airman Matilyn Million, 6th Medical Support Squadron laboratory technician, poses for a photo at MacDill Air Force Base Nov. 9.
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 Editor: Nick 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
USAF concludes participation in multinational Atlantic Trident 2023 by Capt. Michael Hardy and Senior Master Sgt. Andrew Stephens USAFE-AFAFRICA Public Affairs RAF LEEMING, United Kingdom (AFNS)—RAF Lakenheath and RAF Mildenhall concluded their participation in Atlantic Trident 2023 Nov. 10, after working alongside French and British aircrews. Atlantic Trident is a biennial multinational exercise to build combatant cooperation capabilities between French, U.K. and U.S. air forces, with the 2023 incarnation hosted by United Kingdom at RAF Waddington and RAF Leeming. Each exercise iteration meets specific readiness objectives that reflect ongoing and projected mission requirements. In 2023, exercise planners created scenarios that provided advanced and realistic aircrew training through fourth- and fifth-generation aircraft integration, strengthening interoperability during joint operations, and air defenses to maintain joint readiness. “Atlantic Trident reflects our strong commitment with France and the United Kingdom and continues to strengthen our military ties,” said U.S. Air Force Lt. Gen. John Lamontagne, deputy commander of United States Air Forces in Europe – Air Forces Africa. During this exercise, KC-135 Stratotankers from RAF Mildenhall provided aerial refueling capabilities, and F-15E Strike Eagles from the 492nd Fighter Squadron and F-35A Lightning IIs from the 493rd Fighter Squadron at RAF Lakenheath participated with allies in rapid deployment exercises under the Agile Combat Employment model. A contingent from Ramstein Air Base’s 1st Combat Communications Squadron also supported the exercise. The key objective for U.S. participants was to exercise the U.S. Air Force’s ACE concept by providing participants with opportunities to test and im-
Photo by Airman 1st Class Alexander Vasquez
A U.S. Air Force F-15E Strike Eagle, assigned to the 492nd Fighter Squadron, prepares for a multinational exercise at RAF Lakenheath, England, Nov. 6. Liberty Wing F-15’s took part in Atlantic Trident 2023, which focused on interoperability and integration of U.S., U.K., and French fighter aircraft. prove shared technical and tactical knowledge. ACE is one of USAFE-AFAFRICA’s five operational focus areas. ACE represents a reinvigoration of a tried-and-true military concept that emphasizes agility and rapid adaptation to changing threat environments. See TRIDENT, Page 12
Reserve Component launches direct commission program Secretary of the Air Force Public Affairs
ARLINGTON, Va. (AFNS)—The Department of the Air Force has announced that the Air Reserve component has initiated a direct commission and constructive service credit program memo for people interested in serving in the cyber security and cyberspace warfare operations career fields. Brig. Gen. Terrence Adams, deputy principal cyber advisor to the Secretary of Defense and senior military advisor for Cyber Policy, made the announcement on behalf of the Air Force at the Aspen Institute Cyber Summit in New York. “As our nation faces tough challenges in the cyberspace warfighting domain, the Air Force Reserve needs the best talent America has to offer,” Adams said. “The Cyber Direct Commission program is designed to attract highly skilled cyber professionals from industry and enlisted career fields who want to serve their nation in a part time capacity.”
Enlisted personnel and civilians qualified to serve as Air Force Warfighter Communications Operators (17D) and Cyberspace Effects Operators (17S) can earn a direct commission as an Air Force officer. Also eligible are personnel who are qualified to earn a cyberspace engineer/agile software developer – Cyberspace Engineering “Z” prefix as outlined in the Air Force Officer Classification Directory. “This program will allow the service to access cutting edge talent and leverage private sector skills to make us more competitive in the changing world environment,” said Alex Wagner, assistance secretary of the Air Force for Manpower and Reserve Affairs. A review board will determine if candidates are eligible for constructive service credit for prior commissioned service, advanced education, and special training or experience. Constructive service credit is used to determine initial grade, rank and service for promotion eligibility and is usually granted in year-long increments. See COMMISSION, 16
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WEEK IN PHOTOS
U.S. Air Force Master Sgt. Sarabrian Jackson, 6th Maintenance Group quality assurance chief inspector, unloads turkeys during a Nourish the Service event at MacDill Air Force Base Nov. 17. Nourish the Service is a Blue Star Families supported annual event dedicated to bringing installation personnel donations during the holiday season. This year, the event provided free turkeys, vegetables, books and handwritten cards. Over the course of six hours, more than 275 service members and 75 volunteers attended the event.
Photo by Airman 1st Class Zachary Foster
Photo by Airman 1st Class Zachary Foster
Photo by Airman 1st Class Sterling Sutton.
U.S. Air Force Col. Adam Bingham, 6th Air Refueling Wing commander, pilots a KC-135 Stratotanker over Florida Nov. 15. Prior to his role as wing commander, Bingham served as a command pilot with over 3,700 flight hours and over 900 combat hours in support of Operations Iraqi Freedom and Enduring Freedom.
Champa Boom, 6th Air Refueling Wing mascot, waves to visitors and base employees on MacDill Air Force Base Nov. 9. Champa Boom is a mascot designed to resemble the tanker aircraft assigned to MacDill. The mascot has been designated to strengthen community outreach and expand Air Force recruiting efforts.
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NEWS/FEATURES
Pacific air chiefs address regional security, strengthen partnerships by Tech. Sgt. Nick Wilson Pacific Air Forces Public Affairs JOINT BASE PEARL HARBOR-HICKAM, Hawaii (AFNS)—The heads of national air forces from around the globe participated in the opening ceremony for the Pacific Air Chiefs Symposium 2023, held at Headquarters Pacific Air Forces, Joint-Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam, Nov. 14. The week-long event focuses on applying global lessons to challenges of regional security and is the largest biannual air chief symposium to date, with 22 countries attending. Gen. Ken Wilsbach, PACAF commander and host of PACS 23, will lead discussions on topics of regional security as well as developing a networked security architecture among allies and partners. Also in attendance was U.S. Air Force Chief of Staff Gen. David Allvin and Chief Master Sgt. of the Air Force JoAnne Bass. This week, air chiefs and senior enlisted leaders will focus on applying global lessons from recent events and the necessity to preserve peace and prevent conflict in the Indo-Pacific. “Certainly, we have a lot to learn from recent responses to conflict and we look to draw upon valuable lessons to enhance regional security in the Indo-Pacific,” Wilsbach said. “The war in Ukraine has shown the importance of maintaining strong alliances and partnerships to respond to aggression, upholding the principles of sovereignty, territorial integrity and international law. It’s also highlighted the significance of all-domain awareness and the need for advanced communication technologies and sensor fusion.” The symposium will feature panels discussing the importance of air domain awareness, lessons learned from recent conflicts, and humanitarian assistance and disaster relief. The event will also feature several social engagements for the international partners to tighten their bonds. “The importance of strong alliances, partnerships and the contributions of an empowered enlisted force cannot be understated,” Bass said. “They are our most strategic competitive advantage over any adversary.
Photo by Staff Sgt. Alan Ricker
Chief of the Republic of Singapore Air Force Maj. Gen. Kelvin Khong stands in formation during the opening ceremony of the Pacific Air Chiefs Symposium 2023 at Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam, Hawaii, Nov. 14. During the symposium, the senior leaders focused on applying global lessons from recent events and the necessity to preserve peace and prevent conflict in the region. The deeper we cultivate these bonds, the better we understand each other, and the more we effectively leverage the capabilities of our nations.” Unique this year, PACS 23 will culminate with the graduation of the inaugural Inter-Pacific Air Forces Academy, or IPAFA, which provides See AIR CHIEFS, Page 11
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NEWS
Luke AFB advances training during Exercise Desert Hammer
Photo by Airman 1st Class Mason Hargrove
A U.S. Air Force KC-46 Pegasus assigned to Seymour Johnson Air Force Base refuels an F-16 Fighting Falcon from the 309th Fighter Squadron, Nov. 3 over the Barry M. Goldwater Range, Arizona. Instructor Pilot War Day in concert with Exercise Desert Hammer aimed to replicate intense aerial combat scenarios, featuring an array of aircraft from multiple branches and bases. by Airman 1st Class Mason Hargrove 56th Fighter Wing LUKE AIR FORCE BASE, Ariz. (AFNS)—The 56th Fighter Wing conducted Instructor Pilot War Day in conjunction with a larger joint-force exercise hosted by the 944th Fighter Wing, Exercise Desert Hammer, Nov. 3-4, over the Barry M. Goldwater Range, Arizona. Exercise Desert Hammer combined with IP War Day, involved more than 300 combat support Airmen and 96 aircraft, this joint-force exercise is a routine event with U.S. Air Force Reserve, Air National Guard, U.S. Marine Corps, and U.S. Navy. “The purpose of IP War Day is to guarantee that our operators preserve an elite standard of tactical skill and that our instructor pilots can translate insights from the largescale exercise into regular training for their students,” said U.S Air Force Col. Matthew Johnston, 56th Operations Group commander. “This exercise solidifies the tactiSee HAMMER, Page 7
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HAMMER From Page 6
cal readiness of our Airmen and affirms their expertise, reinforcing our commitment to training the world’s greatest fighter pilots and combat-ready Airmen.” The exercises aimed to replicate intense aerial combat scenarios, featuring an array of aircraft including F35A Lightning II’s from the 61st Fighter Squadron, F-16 Fighting Falcons from 309th Fighter Squadron, F-35B Lightning II’s from USMC Air Station Miramar, and a KC-46 Pegasus and F-15 Eagles from Seymour Johnson Air Force Base. “IP War Day is a testament to our commitment of advancing training and readiness,” said U.S. Air Force Reserve Lt. Col. William Wisehart, 944th Operations Group deputy commander. “This exercise not only reinforces our operational capabilities but also strengthens our community ties, aligning with our mission to train combat ready Airmen and foster enduring partnerships.” The exercise’s primary intent was to maintain and enhance tactical proficiency, particularly focusing on air-toair defensive maneuvers in a variety of combat scenarios and contested areas. It aimed to bolster coordination and readiness among the various units, ensuring that aircrews are adept and prepared for the agile deployment of airpower in future operations.
Photo by Airman 1st Class Jakob Hambright
SH-60 Sea Hawk aircraft assigned to Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron 6 conduct landing and refueling operations, Nov. 3, at Gila Bend Auxiliary Airfield, Arizona. The SH-60’s participated in a total force effort where the 56th Fighter Wing conducted Instructor Pilot War Day in conjunction with a larger joint-force exercise hosted by the 944th Fighter Wing, Exercise Desert Hammer.
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Airmen, community volunteers and performers pose for a group photo following a Native American Heritage Month luncheon at MacDill Air Force Base Nov. 14,. The event celebrated Native American culture and honored the contributions of Native Americans to the country.
MacDill Air Force Base celebrates Native Americans story and photos by Airman 1st Class Zachary Foster 6th Air Refueling Wing Public Affairs
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he 6th Air Refueling Wing hosted a Native American Heritage Month celebration and luncheon at the installation’s chapel Nov. 14. Leading the event was Master Sgt. Zachary Pletcher, 6th Logistics Readiness Squadron petroleum, oils and lubricants flight fuels operations section chief. “Today we’re doing more than just celebrating the contributions of Native Americans in the military,” Pletcher said. “This year we tried to branch out to off-base volunteers to strengthen our relationships with the community.” One partnership featured during the celebration was the Tampa Bay Historical Society. Volunteers in attendance led a presentation on the historic role of Native American culture in military operations. Retired Col. Clete Belsom, a TBHS docent, served as the event’s keynote speaker, explaining his role within the Tampa Bay community and introduced Richard Sanchez, a fellow TBHS volunteer. 8
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During Sanchez’s presentation, he focused on the role the Native American language played in the First and Second World Wars, noting the value unwritten communication had in the success of countless military operations. “A key factor in deciding to use Native American language is it’s never written down,” Sanchez said. “Navajo speakers were used to transmit messages during combat over radio and served as a quick and effective way to encrypt communication in time-sensitive situations.” Following the presentation, guests were invited to enjoy traditional Native American cuisine including frybread, corn mush, beef and vegetable soup, and Navajo tea. The event wrapped up with an immersive performance by multiple traditional Native American dance groups from across the country. “I appreciate everyone that came in support today,” Pletcher said. “It was great to see so many community volunteers and military personnel connect with such a unique and historic culture.” Events like this serve in support of the 6th ARW’s commitment to celebrating the heritage of all service members, DoD civilians and dependents living and working on the installation.
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Deneshia Smith, a traditional Native American dancer, performs during a Native American Heritage Month luncheon at MacDill Air Force Base Nov. 14. The event featured traditional dancing and cuisine, including frybread, corn mush, beef and vegetable soup and a Navajo tea. Smith performed a “fancy shawl” routine, which focused on the outfit’s elaborate designs, applique, ribbon work, and painting.
(Far left) Retired Col. Clete Belsom, a Tampa Historical Society docent, holds an arrowhead during a Native American Heritage Month luncheon at MacDill Air Force Base Nov. 14. The event celebrated Native American culture and honored the contributions of Native Americans to the country. (Left) A poster is shown during a Native American Heritage Month luncheon at MacDill Air Force Base Nov. 14. Tampa Bay Historical Society was featured during the event, focusing on the role of Navajo language in early combat encryption. Navajo code talkers were utilized during the First and Second World Wars.
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AIR CHIEFS From Page 5
professional military education to ally and partner enlisted service members across the Indo-Pacific. The academy’s primary focus is nurturing effective enlisted command leadership teams and establishing a robust partnership network for mutual support, which further highlights America’s commitment to alliances and partnerships, as well as interoperability among forces. “The importance of a strong enlisted force cannot be understated,” said Chief Master Sgt. David Wolfe, PACAF command chief. “And it’s definitely our intention to share and collaborate with all nations here to further empower enlisted forces and move all of us one step forward.” Ultimately the Pacific Air Chiefs Symposium brings together military leaders from across the Indo-Pacific, Europe, South America and North America to address shared challenges and strengthen everdeepening partnerships.
Photo by Staff Sgt. Alan Ricker
Air chiefs and senior enlisted leaders from more than 20 countries stand in formation during the opening ceremony of the Pacific Air Chiefs Symposium 2023 at Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam, Hawaii, Nov. 14. The symposium provided an opportunity for senior leaders from around the globe to share regional perspectives through bilateral and multilateral engagements and panels.
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TRIDENT From Page 3
In contrast to conventional operating methods, ACE seeks to reduce reliance on traditional fixed bases and static deployments. Instead, it embraces a dynamic approach to rapidly distribute, reposition and operate from multiple dispersed locations. By doing so, ACE aims to deny adversaries the advantage of predictability, while concurrently enhancing USAFE-AFAFRICA’s capacity to respond swiftly to emerging threats. Where the U.S. Air Force has ACE, the French air force applies their operational concept of MORANE, a mindset which sees French air forces employ rapid implementation to deploy and act quickly with a small logistical footprint. Understanding the different operational concepts employed by the U.S., French and British air contingents is the first step towards building shared objectives and improving coordination, according to Matthew Snyder, USAFE lead planner for Atlantic Trident 2023. Practice will lead to better force integration and interoperability. Allied assets participating in the exercise included the French Air and Space Force Rafale and E-3F Airborne Warning and Control System, the French Navy Marine Rafale, the U.K. Royal Navy F-35B Lighting II, and the Royal Air Force Eurofighter Typhoon. The exercise culminated in a live demonstration of a rapid deployment scenario for allied military leaders including Gen. Laurent Rataud from French Air and Space Force, Air Marshal Harvey Smyth, RAF Air and Space Commander, and Lamontagne. “At Royal Air Force Leeming, our men and women executed the agile combat employment concept alongside our allied partner. This advanced, realistic training in fourthand fifth-generation aircraft also demonstrated that our combined aircrews are a ready and postured force,” Lamontagne said after observing the demonstration. 12
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Photo by Airman 1st Class Seleena Muhammad-Ali
(Above) A U.S. Air Force F-35A Lighting II assigned to the 493rd Fighter Squadron takes off to participate in Atlantic Trident 2023 at RAF Lakenheath, United Kingdom, Nov.1. Atlantic Trident demonstrates how the integration of fifthgeneration assets in the region play a role in increasing air superiority in the European Theater. (Left) U.S. Air Force Capt. Patrick Pearce, 493rd Fighter Squadron pilot, greets Airman 1st Class Micheal Ademoye, 493rd Fighter Generation Squadron crew chief, during exercise Atlantic Trident 2023 at RAF Lakenheath, United Kingdom, Nov. 1. Atlantic Trident 2023 provides opportunities for allied and partner nations to practice information sharing and communication protocols in simulated scenarios.
Photo by Airman 1st Class Seleena Muhammad-Ali
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SURVIVE From Page 2
lion was referred to a hematologist oncologist to observe enlarged lymph nodes in her armpit. The oncologist dismissed the abnormalities as symptoms of mononucleosis. Million had been tested five more times for mononucleosis, with each test showing a positive result. “They were all false positives from the cancer,” Million said. “The oncologist eventually sent me to an infectious disease doctor because of how large my lumps had gotten. My armpits would hurt because they were so big.” Million went to the infectious disease doctor in January 2023, nearly four months after her visit to the emergency room. It was at this time that she discovered she did not have mononucleosis, but something else. Million was then referred to a surgeon for a biopsy to check one of her lumps. In March 2023, Million had surgery and learned what had been the cause of her health issues for the last several months. “When I called my mom, I cried,” Million said. “Saying out loud that I had cancer for the first time was hard. Telling her was when it set in.” Although she had been managing worsening symptoms, including fatigue and enlarging growths in her body, Million continued to go to work at MacDill’s medical laboratory up until her chemotherapy treatments. She said that during the process of being diagnosed with Hodgkin’s lymphoma, she felt a sense of guilt for the times that she had to be away from work and at her medical appointments. Prior to the madness of 2023, as she describes, Million was the booster club president for the entire 6th Medical Group. That role reflected her attitude and enthusiasm toward work and relationship with her coworkers. “Million is absolutely the most positive person I have ever met,” said Staff Sgt. Ryley Bonelli, Million’s former supervisor at the 6th MDSS laboratory. “Even going through chemotherapy, she was making jokes and trying to make other people around her feel comfortable.” From April to September of this year, Million had 12 chemotherapy treatments aimed at removing her cancer cells. Million said that she dreaded her final treatments as they caused her more pain and nausea. “[Chemotherapy] is probably anyone’s worst nightmare,” Million said. “You get a port, like an IV needle, put in going straight to your heart so that everything can be pumped in everywhere. You get cleaned with special wipes and taped up to keep things secure, and that hurts. When they take off the tape, it feels like everything underneath is ripped off. You are given medicine to cope with the pain and nausea in around thirty-minute increments, and you are there for three to four hours each appointment.” During the time Million battled through cancer, she had the support of her mother who attended each treatment session and the support of the Air Force. “The Air Force gave me the time off work I needed,” Million said. “They paid my mother to take care of me while I was being treated because I was unable to take care of myself. That was really nice. My leadership would bring me anything I needed because I was not driving then. They would show up for my chemotherapy treatments as well, and I appreciated them for that.” 14
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Courtesy photo
U.S. Air Force Senior Airman Matilyn Million, 6th Medical Support Squadron laboratory technician, stands next to her coworkers during a chemotherapy appointment in Tampa Aug. 21. Million was diagnosed with stage III Hodgkin’s lymphoma in March 2023. She completed her 12th and final chemotherapy treatment on Sept. 18 and is currently cancer free. After completing her last treatment, Million is cancer free. Although she will continue to have check-ups due to her compromised immune system, Million now has a renewed optimism toward her military career and the rest of her life. “I am excited to get back on my feet and start working again,” Million said. “I am excited to progress and to test for staff [sergeant]. It has been hard to have so much time taken from me when I could have been making a name for myself. I am excited to be healthier and start working out and being as I was before.” Million returned to work for the first time since her chemotherapy treatments on Nov. 1, 2023. Bonelli said that the 6th MDSS laboratory is focused on helping Million transition back to working as a technician and not tasking her with too much too soon. Her Air Force career began with basic military training, same as every other enlisted Airman. Following the completion of BMT, Million went through thirteen months of training to become a laboratory technician. Her anticipation to start performing operational duties built throughout her training. Coming to MacDill for her first duty assignment, the last thing Million would have predicted was the battle she faced. “Strength is what we gain from the madness we survive,” Million said. “I have a lot more respect for myself now. Cancer is the most difficult thing many people will ever go through, and it kills a lot of people. I am so young, and I have already dealt with this huge obstacle in my life. I made me realize I am a lot stronger than I thought I was.”
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COMMUNITY
EVENTS
Thanksgiving holiday closures For a full list of 6th Force Support Squadron program facilities, dining options, and recreational facility closures for Thanksgiving weekend, visit macdillfss.com/ thanksgiving_23. MacWonderland Join the fun at the Breakaway Event Center Dec. 1 to kick off the start of the holiday season with the base tree-lighting and winter festival. There will be free treats, face painting, live reindeer, skating rink, photos with santa, food trucks and tons of holiday cheer. This free event is open to everyone with access to MacDill AFB. For details, visit macdillfss.com/macwonderland. Holiday Golf Scramble Mark your calendars, gather your golf gear, and get ready to tee off the holidays in style. This December Golf Scramble promises a day filled with laughter, camaraderie, and the joy of golf. Join the fun Saturday, December 2 with an 8 a.m. shotgun start at Bay Palms Golf South Course. Two-person teams, 6 hole mix up (holes 1-6 Best Ball, holes 7-12 Modified Alternate Shot, holes 13-18 Scramble). Advanced green fee $25/ active duty & retirees $37/ civilians $45 (price includes green fees, cart, range balls, lunch, and prizes). Stop by the Pro Shop to sign up today. Deadline to register is December 1. Visit bit.ly/ HolidayGolfOuting_23 for more information. Find more events at macdillfss.com
The Champ!
Photo by Airman 1st Class Derrick Bole
U.S. Air Force Col. Edward Szczepanik, 6th ARW deputy commander, left, and Col. Adam Bingham, 6th Air Refueling Wing commander, right, pose for a photo with Staff Sgt. Derick Hernandez, 6th Maintenance Squadron maintenance recovery team chief, during a Champion of the Week recognition at MacDill Air Force Base Nov. 14. Hernandez led a 618 Air Operations Center tasking, for which his seven-member total force team rescued an Arizona National Guard KC-135 stranded in Bangor, Maine.
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 23, 2023 u WWW.MACDILLTHUNDERBOLT.COM u 15
COMMISSION From Page 3
Applicants must meet the following criteria: n Be eligible for a commission in the Air Force, including physical standards for entrance n Possess or be eligible for a top secret/sensitive compartmented information security clearance n Have a quantifiable record of leadership, management or supervisory experience in academia, civilian and/or military organizations (preferred) n Have qualifying advanced education, specialized training and/or experience in cyber-related fields as outlined in the memo Candidates will incur an initial four-year Selective Reserve obligation from the date of appointment or commission and an additional four-year Inactive Ready Reserve obligation. They will also be required to complete
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the U.S. Air Force Officer Training Schoolprogram. Their monthly reserve obligation will depend on the needs of their units, training requirements and mission requirements. This program follows a regular Air Force pilot program for direct commissioning into cyber career fields and constructive service credit launched in 2020. This is the first time the reserve component has opened direct commissions to career fields other than lawyers, chaplains and medical personnel. The service may consider expanding the direct commission program to other reserve and Guard career fields in the future. Career fields that may be considered are operations analyst, intelligence, security forces, chemist, nuclear chemist, physicists, nuclear physicists, developmental engineer and acquisition manager.
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