Issuu

Vol. 51, No. 51

Thursday, December 21, 2023

News/Features: page 3 Jumpstarting life

News/Features: page 3 Enhancing human performance

Week in photos: page 4 Images from the week

Photo by Airman 1st Class Zachary Foster

Community: page 11 Events, Chapel, more...

Senior Enlisted Advisor to the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, Troy E. Black, discusses class performance with 6th Force Support Squadron Airman Leadership School advisors during a tour of MacDill Air Force Base Dec. 12. SEAC Black visited the 6th ARW to gain insight on the issues Airmen are facing, ensuring his ability to better advocate within his position. During his tour, he met with Airmen from each of the wing’s groups.

NEWS/FEATURES

Investment in our Airmen by Airman 1st Class Zachary Foster 6th Air Refueling Wing Public Affairs With more than 6,000 requests to move more than 4 million pounds of cargo annually, the 6th Logistics Readiness Squadron ground transportation flight makes training multi capable Airmen their top priority. For the past four years, the ground transportation team introduced a vehicle simulator to supplement the unit’s rigorous training regimen. Training starts in the classroom setting to give Airmen the opportunity to familiarize themselves with general operator safety. “Our training starts with learning all of the fundamentals surrounding driving,” said Airman 1st Class Ronkeith Patterson, 6th LRS ground transportation vehicle operator. “We learn all of the hazards, speed limits, brake tests, and everything else that you’d need to know when operating a large vehicle. That’s important because we need to know what errors to look out for when we’re out there.” Once Airmen have taken the time to understand how to safely operate the vehicles, they are taken to the simulator to test their skills without endangering the equipment or themselves. “All of our operators are given time to learn on the simulator so they can get firsthand experience prior to handling the vehicle,” said Staff Sgt Chase Terry, 6th LRS ground transportation training validation operations examiner. “This is a huge improvement because beforehand we’d take them to an empty lot and just let them drive for a while, essentially putting someone brand new into an unfamiliar situation with very expensive consequences.” According to Terry, the simulator provides an added layer of pro-

Photo by Airman 1st Class Zachary Foster

U.S. Air Force Airman 1st Class Ronkeith Patterson, 6th Logistics Readiness Squadron ground transportation vehicle operator, completes training on a vehicle simulator at MacDill Air Force Base Dec. 11. With more than 6,000 requests to move more than 4 million pounds of cargo annually, the 6th LRS ground transportation flight makes training multi capable Airmen its top priority. tection for the operator to “try and fail” in a safe environment. With immersive and real time feedback, the simulator allows operators the ability to tackle unique situations without having to worry about damaging the vehicles. The ground transportation team is continually looking for ways to better support their junior enlisted Airmen and save the Air Force

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,

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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See INVEST, Page 9

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

Jumpstart life by Airman 1st Class Zachary Foster 6th Air Refueling Wing Public Affairs

Commissioning in the United States Air Force comes in many different ways. With dozens of specialty programs, there is a path for anyone with the grit to follow through. For Staff Sgt. Jacob Levering, 6th Healthcare Operations Squadron specialty services section chief, the program that best fit his goals was the Medical Service Corps (MSC). Levering’s journey to find MSC started at a recruiter’s office, where he took his first steps toward becoming an Airman in the U.S. Air Force. “I joined the Air Force because I didn’t have the means to pay for college without going into debt,” he said. “The military was a way for me to jumpstart my life, and I think it did just that.” Like many recruits, Levering came to his initial processing with the hopes of being a Special Operations Airman, but would hit a roadblock before his career could start. Levering was diagnosed with deuteranomaly, a common red-green color deficiency that can restrict recruits from entering a combat career field. Left with a choice, he decided to continue his path as a medical technician. See JUMP START, Page 10

Photo by Airman 1st Class Zachary Foster

U.S. Air Force Staff Sgt. Jacob Levering, 6th Healthcare Operations Squadron specialty services section chief, poses for a photo at MacDill Air Force Base Nov. 27. Levering was selected to commission through the Medical Service Corps (MSC). MSC focuses on the administrative, logistics, finance, readiness, and facility management roles in a hospital.

AMC hosts first Human Performance Industry Day

by Air Mobility Command Public Affairs

SCOTT AFB, Illinois – Air Mobility Command (AMC) hosted its firstever Human Performance Industry Days (HPID) here, Dec. 11-12, 2023. The intent of the event was to share and develop solutions in the human performance space to maximize physical and mental performance for Airmen. A cross-functional team from academia, the Air Force, and industry collaborated and shared insights and developments across the human performance spectrum. U.S. Air Force photo HPID topics derived from lessons learned during Mobility Guardian 2023, AMC’s flagship exercise. Mobility Guardian 23 showed max Air Mobility Command (AMC) hosted its first-ever Human Performance endurance operations were needed to operate at the pace and scale re- Industry Days (HPID) at Scott Air Force Base Dec. 11-12. The intent of quired in the Pacific theater. To combat the strain on those who fly, fix the event was to share and develop solutions in the human performance See PERFORMANCE, Page 8 space to maximize physical and mental performance for Airmen. MACDILL THUNDERBOLT u Thursday, December 21, 2023 u WWW.MACDILLTHUNDERBOLT.COM u 3

WEEK IN PHOTOS

Airman Leadership School Class 24-A students install an AT-197 line-of-sight antenna at MacDill Air Force Base Dec. 13. ALS Class 24-A participated in a hands-on immersion tour at the 6th Communications Squadron facility as part of the curriculum to enhance the students’ capabilities outside of their primary Air Force Specialty Code.

Photo by Senior Airman Joshua Hastings

Photo by Airman 1st Class Zachary Foster

U.S. Air Force Tech. Sgt. Scott Greco, 6th Civil Engineer Squadron noncommissioned officer in charge of explosive ordnance disposal equipment, points his weapon toward a target at the combat arms training and maintenance facility at MacDill Air Force Base Dec. 12. The 6th CES EOD flight and 6th Security Forces Squadron conducted a four-day training course to familiarize Airmen with practical integrated tactics and prepare them for threats in which both units would respond.

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NEWS/FEATURES

SECAF visits Airmen, Guardians, sees AFFORGEN in action Secretary of the Air Force Public Affairs

SOUTHWEST ASIA (AFNS)—Secretary of the Air Force Frank Kendall visited U.S. Air Force Airmen and U.S. Space Force Guardians deployed throughout the U.S. Central Command area of responsibility Dec. 4-11, as part of a senior leader visit to thank Airmen and Guardians for their expeditionary service during the holiday season. During his visit with the first Airmen to deploy under the new Air Force Force Generation model, Kendall learned about how Airmen and Guardians are delivering capabilities, developing critical relationships with allies and partners and supporting the enduring defense initiatives throughout the region. “First and foremost, I’m here to say thank you for your service to the country and for what you’re doing,” said Kendall during an all-call with service members. “You remain focused on providing presence and stability in a critical region of the world. What you do is not easy, and it is especially challenging during this time of the year when our thoughts turn to home and loved ones. Please know my sincere appreciation, our nation is indebted to the sacrifice made by you and your families.” During these all-call sessions, Kendall took a variety of questions, including on the future direction of the Department of the Air Force.

See SECAF, Page 9

Photo by Airman 1st Class Stassney Davis

Secretary of the Air Force Frank Kendall poses with service members at an undisclosed location in the U.S. Central Command area of responsibility Dec. 6. Kendall visited various units where he held discussions on vital matters, highlighted the strategic goals, acknowledged the contributions of Airmen and Guardians and shared his vision for the future during a base-wide all-call. Kendall also recognized several outstanding performers during his visit.

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SEAC Black tours MacDill AFB story and photos by Airman 1st Class Zachary Foster 6th Air Refueling Wing Public Affairs

enior Enlisted Advisor to the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Troy E. Black toured MacDill Air Force Base Dec. 12, to better understand the issues Airmen are facing, ensuring his ability to better advocate within his position. The tour started with a visit to the installation’s combatant commands, U.S. Central Command and U.S. Special Operations Command, refamiliarizing SEAC Black with the strategic headquarters located within the base’s walls. Following that, the team met with 6th Air Refueling Wing leadership to connect with the local operations and get a better understanding of the role it plays as the installation’s host wing. Among the leaders was U.S. Air Force Chief Master Sgt. Raun Howell, 6th ARW command chief and the wing’s most senior enlisted advocate, and representatives from each of the wing’s five groups. SEAC Black tours MacDill AFB During the introductory briefing, Howell emphasized the wing’s importance in ensuring the nation’s success and expressed his support for Black’s initiatives, saying, “The day our adversaries decide to attack the United States, our allies or interests, the Department of Defense will be grateful that SEAC Black is our senior enlisted member and has prepared our enlisted corps to be a disciplined force with an operational, joint mindset.” Following the briefing, the tour proceeded to the 6th ARW’s Chief Master Sgt. Aubert E. Dozier Airman Leadership School to hear firsthand how instructors are focusing on developing next generation leaders through professional military education. Here, MacDill’s newest first-line supervisors were given the opportunity to engage in an open dialogue with their most senior advocate. “The SEAC’s visit to MacDill’s Airman Leadership School was monumental for the students, especially at this point in their career as they take on new leadership roles and responsibilities,” said Master Sgt. Brendan Young, ALS commandant. “His powerful message stressed the importance of being a team and not an individual, providing a joint perspective on how teamwork will be instrumental to winning future fights.” The team then focused on the tactical roles Airmen play in supporting the 6th ARW’s mission, with visits to the 6th Medical Group, a tour onboard a KC-135 Stratotanker and a waterside security demonstration alongside 6th Security Forces Squadron marine patrolmen. After experiencing a few of the wing’s key mission sets, Black gained a better understanding and appreciation for the work being completed by the junior service members at MacDill that contribute to the DoD’s success and left them with a thought: “From my time in the DoD, two issues have persisted: the need for money and the need for people,” Black said. “Money isn’t something we always have control over, but we are able to decide how we treat others. My request is that we spend more time focusing on developing and mentoring our junior enlisted service members, creating an environment that makes them want to continue their service.” The 6th ARW is committed to ensuring the success of all service members. Tours like this provide 6th ARW leadership the opportunity to showcase the hard work of all their Airmen, recognizing their achievement alongside their most senior enlisted advocate.

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Senior Enlisted Advisor to the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, Troy E. Black, leads a conversation with Airman Leadership School students during a tour of MacDill Air Force Base Dec. 12. SEAC Black visited the 6th ARW to gain insight on the issues Airmen are facing, ensuring his ability to better advocate within his position. During his tour, he met with Airmen from each of the wing’s groups.

(Far left) Senior Enlisted Advisor to the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, Troy E. Black, discusses security protocols with a 6th Security Forces Squadron marine patrolman during a tour of MacDill Air Force Base Dec. 12. The SEAC is appointed by the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff (CJCS) to serve as an advisor to the Chairman on all matters involving joint and combined total force integration, utilization, health of the force, and joint development for enlisted personnel. (Left) Senior Enlisted Advisor to the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, Troy E. Black, discusses installation security with 6th Security Forces Squadron marine patrolmen during a tour of MacDill Air Force Base Dec. 12.

PERFORMANCE From Page 3

and support these missions, AMC is researching human performance tools and concepts which could be adopted to optimize performance in the event of sustained operations. Gen. Mike Minihan, AMC’s commander, highlighted the need for events such as the HPID. “My mission statement for this event is ‘ a deliberate whole of DoD, whole of industry effort, to maximize performance of mobility Airmen to execute, to a standard, mobility operations for 48-hours,’” said Minihan. The tyranny of distance in the Pacific necessitates max endurance efforts, and this was made apparent during Mobility Guardian, and was recognized by exercise evaluators as a “game changer” when it comes to mobility operations in that theater. To address this shortfall, HPID was created to add greater depth to tactics, techniques and procedures, identify policy and funding barriers, and work potential solutions. “I’m not interested in a solution that’s two or three years down the road. I’ve got about nine months before I hand over this command and this problem set needs to be in an incredibly better place than it is right now. We’re looking to get things done quickly,” said Minihan. Solutions discussed included tools in development with the Defense Innovation Unit (DIU). DIU, already a partner with Fairchild Air Force Base, showcased some of their equipment during HPID, including digital fatigue tests, which give aircraft commanders the data needed to make decisions that are best for their crew, as well as wearable technology which provides biometric data to properly evaluate an Airman’s own level of fatigue. Major Nathan Mocalis, Director of the Innovation Cell at Fairchild Air Force Base and a KC-135 pilot, described how solutions being presented during the HPID can enhance aircrew decision-making. “These tools can provide crews with recommendations on when to adjust their sleep schedules for missions, providing operators with information on the most optimal time for performance,” said Mocalis. “Aircraft commanders can utilize objective data to drive their decision calculus for their crews.”

U.S. Air Force photo

en. Mike Minihan, Air Mobility Command Commander speaks with industry during AMC’s first-ever Human Performance Industry Days (HPID) at Scott Air Force Base Dec. 11-12. The intent of the event was to share and develop solutions in the human performance space to maximize physical and mental performance for Airmen. The event’s second day included an exposition hall, where more than 35 companies within the human performance industry showcased emergent technologies. AMC will continue to partner with industry to cultivate new solutions to problems and improve upon existing technology while minimizing costs for solution implementation.

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INVEST From Page 2

money. The team views the vehicle simulator as an investment in their Airmen and hopes the commitment to training will reduce the need for repairs in the future. “This simulator was a one-time cost of $500,000- which sounds like a lot but is a great investment compared to the potential cost of repairs,” Terry said. “One sideswipe in a bus can be up to $10,000, over

time that adds up. We see this as an investment in our operators; we’re spending the time and money upfront to properly train our team and ensure they are able to safely carry out their duties every day.” The vehicle simulator was purchased using “wing innovation funds” and is open to all other units across the installation. For more information on how to schedule a training call 813-828-5282.

SECAF From Page 5

“As I got to know the Air Force and the Space Force more intimately, it became more apparent to me that we need to make some changes,” Kendall said. “A major effort is underway with Chief of Staff [of the Air Force Gen. David W.] Allvin and Chief of Space Operations [of the Space Force Gen. Chance] Saltzman is to look at our current posture, how we are organized to fight, how we train and how we equip. We will be making a series of announcements regarding changes to make the current forces as capable as possible for the most difficult security challenges we currently face.” Kendall also received updates on how the United States and regional partners are postured to defend common security interests through multilateral coalitions of competent, capable and integrated air dominance forces. Through his visits with the 332nd, 378th, 379th, 380th, and 386th Air Expeditionary Wings, the 609th Air Operations Center, and theCombined

Air Operations Center, he highlighted the value of sustaining relationships with joint and coalition partners. “A key element of our strategy is integrated deterrence, the idea that we integrate not just U.S. capabilities but the capabilities of our partners—our success in this part of the world depends upon having strong partners that we can work with,” Kendall said. “The multi-national team at the CAOC is a striking example of the teamwork we have fostered and continue to build.” Throughout the tour, Kendall recognized top performers for their hard work and dedication to the Air Force and Space Force missions conducting combat operations in support of U.S. national security objectives throughout the Middle East. “You are deeply appreciated,” Kendall said. “Every day your senior leadership teams get up and head to work knowing that supporting you is our core purpose, and we will continue to do that for you.”

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JUMP START From Page 3

Following basic military training, Levering, like all other Air Force nurses, was sent to Fort Sam Houston in San Antonio, Texas, to study the prerequisite skills required for his Phase I training. He quickly excelled in his studies and completed his Phase II in-patient training, eventually arriving at MacDill Air Force Base. Soon after, Levering and the world would be tested in a challenge like no other: the COVID-19 pandemic. “In 2021, I was deployed to Grand Rapids, Michigan, to assist the city in response to the COVID-19 pandemic,” Levering said. “We were on a mission to vaccinate the entire population. In total, we delivered over 200,000 vaccines and I administered more than a thousand myself.” Relying on the fundamentals that he learned during his nursing school, Levering and his team exceeded their goal in a quicker timeframe than anticipated. However, the pandemic’s workload did not pose a challenge like he would later face. “The biggest struggle for me was losing my uncle,” Levering said. “It was during the pandemic, he passed in his sleep. As if that wasn’t traumatic enough, that same year my grandfather, my uncle and my mentor all died due to COVID-19.” In a world of grief and loss, Levering would feel the impact firsthand. Only with the support of his family and close friends did he find the determination to continue on his path. “It was tough, but I kept pushing forward,” Levering said. “It was emotionally the toughest thing I’ve had to go through.” Despite his emotional turmoil, Levering turned his attention back to his career. As time passed, his responsibilities grew. Over the next few years, Levering would progress from a technician to a supervisor to a flight chief. With newfound responsibilities, Levering made it his mission to balance his administrative, supervisory and patient care duties without losing the fundamental skills that built his career. “It’s tough to handle both supervisory and patient care, but it ultimately comes down to proper prioritization,” Levering said. “First and foremost is taking care of the patient in front of you. Once they are taken care of and their health care plan is set, then it’s management of every-

thing else.” According to Levering, he’s noticed that disconnects can form between supervisors and their Airman in the absence of hands-on patient care. His solution is to put aside his administrative duties and work alongside his subordinates, both sharpening his skills and reminding himself of the weight of the work he’s asking to be accomplished. “A problem across the Air Force- in any career field- is when a supervisor is taken out of the tactical level,” Levering said. “That’s limiting their ability to train newcomers because they’re not as knowledgeable as they once were. My role keeps me really hands-on, and that’s helped me teach my Airmen a lot quicker and more effectively.” Levering’s years of experience as a nurse has given him a greater appreciation for the tactical aspects of the medical field. Now, he’s looking towards the Air Force’s officer corps to share his expertise in a leadership environment. “I didn’t necessarily walk into the recruiter’s office looking for this job, but I’ve loved every second of it,” Levering said. “I’ve enjoyed it so much that when I chose to apply for a commission, I decided I wanted to stay in the medical field for the duration of my career in the military.” According to Levering, the MSC focuses on the administrative, logistics, finance, readiness, and facility management roles in a hospital. After five years of patient care in the Air Force, Levering is looking towards MSC as an opportunity to broaden his skills and effect change on a wider scale. “I’m always setting goals for myself to accomplish,” Levering said. “Right now, I’m looking to tackle OTS then start my new career. After that, my goals will change to ascending to major or getting my master’s degree. There are no limits, and so far, the Air Force has provided all the resources and capabilities to get where I want to go.” Levering has taken every opportunity the Air Force has provided and tackled every challenge that’s come his way. His hard work and dedication have brought him success at every turn and he serves as an example to Airmen everywhere. For more information on MSC and how to apply, visit: https://msca.us/ about/about-the-active-usaf-medical-service-corps-msc/.

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COMMUNITY

EVENTS

Pro Shop Holiday Sale Gear up for the holidays with Bay Palms Complex Golf Pro Shop sale, ends December 24! Swing into the season with unbeatable discounts on top-quality clubs, stylish apparel, and cutting-edge accessories. Visit macdillfss.com/ bay-palms-golf-complex/ for more information. Holiday gift shopping with FSS Looking for the perfect holiday gift? Visit the Arts and Crafts Center on MacDill AFB for unique hand-crafted items perfect for friends and family. Visit macdillfss.com/services/ for more details. Theme Park and local attraction tickets make great stocking stuffers! Visit the MacDill ITT office inside the Base Exchange or visit macdillfss.com/recreation/. 6th FSS holiday hours For a full list of 6 Force Support Squadron program facilities, dining options, and recreational facility closures for the Holidays, visit bit.ly/DecHolidayHrs. New Year’s Eve Party Step into a New Year’s celebration like no other! Join us for an unforgettable New Year’s Eve bash at SeaScapes Restaurant, where the glimmering waters meet a night of indulgence and excitement! Tickets are limited. Tickets include party favors/hats, food, champagne toast at midnight, DJ, and karaoke. Doors open at 6 p.m., $20 per person or $35 per couple. For more information visit bit.ly/ NYE23party. Find more events at macdillfss.com

First sergeants

Photo by Airman 1st Class Derrick Bole

First Sergeants assigned to MacDill Air Force Base pose for a group photo, Dec. 12. Air Force first sergeants help ensure airmen are mission-ready, meaning that they prepare them to fulfill their duties to support their mission.

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 Chapel 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, December 21, 2023 u WWW.MACDILLTHUNDERBOLT.COM u 11

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