Thunderbolt 12/22/2022

Vol. 50, No. 51

Thursday, December 22, 2022

Operation Christmas Drop - page 10 News/Features: page 3 Gunship crew wins trophy

News/Features: page 3 Highest risk off-duty

Week in photos: page 4 Images from the week

Photo by Yasuo Osakabe

Community: page 19 Events, Chapel, more...

U.S. Air Force Lt. Col. Jeffrey Furnary, 36th Expeditionary Airlift Squadron director of operations, communicates by radio with C-130 pilots at Andersen Air Force Base, Guam, Dec. 10, during Operation Christmas Drop 2022. Seven C-130 aircraft from the U.S. Air Force, Royal Australian Air Force, Japan Air Self-Defense Force, Republic of Korea Air Force and Royal New Zealand Air Force delivered 209 bundles weighing a total of more than 71,000 pounds as part of Operation Christmas Drop, an event meant to assist remote island communities in the Federated States of Micronesia and Republic of Palau.

COMMENTARY

BAH Rates will increase by average of 12.1 percent

by C. Todd Lopez DOD News

The Defense Department has released the basic allowance for housing, or BAH rates for 2023. Those rates have risen, on average, by 12.1 percent, said the Pentagon press secretary during a briefing today.

“The significant increase in average BAH rates is reflective of the unique market conditions experienced across many locations nationwide over the past year,” said Air Force Brig. Gen. Pat Ryder. “The department is committed to the preservation of a compensation and benefits structure that provides members with an adequate standard of living to sustain a trained, experienced and ready force, now and in the future.” The BAH increase is not unexpected. In a memo dated Sept.

22, 2022, Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin III outlined an array of efforts to address the needs of married service members and their families, as well as single service members.

“The Department of Defense has a sacred obligation to take care of our service members and families,” Austin wrote in the memo. “Doing so is a national security imperative. Our military families provide the strong foundation for our force, and we owe them our full support.”

We remain profoundly committed to doing right by our military

Airman 1st Class Zachary Nordheim

Air Force Tech. Sgt. Billy Lofton, a noncommissioned officer in charge of plans with 325th Security Forces Squadron, shows his family how to operate an unmanned ground vehicle at Tyndall Air Force Base, Fla., April 29.

See BAH, Page 6

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

73rd SOS gunship crews awarded MacKay Trophy

by Airman 1st Class Natalie Fiorilli 1st Special Operations Wing Public Affairs HURLBURT FIELD, Fla. (AFNS)—Chaos. n one word, that’s how the U.S. Air Force AC-130J Ghostrider gunship crews of Shadow 77 and Shadow 78 described the scene of Kabul, Afghanistan, Aug. 15, 2021.

“There were just cars and people everywhere trying to get on to the airfield,” said 1st Lt. William Bachmann, 73rd Special Operations Squadron copilot aboard Shadow 78.

For the crews of Shadow 77 and 78, the mission to support the U.S. withdrawal from Afghanistan during Operation Freedom’s Sentinel would go on to last nearly 30 hours combined – resulting in the evacuation of roughly 2,000 Americans.

Those members of the 73rd SOS were honored for their efforts as recipients of the 2021 MacKay Trophy during a ceremony at the National Museum of the U.S. Air Force at Wright-Patterson Air Force Base, Ohio, Dec. 7.

The trophy, which is administered by the Air Force and the National Aeronautic Association for the “most meritorious flight” of the year by See TROPHY, Page 8

Photo by Ty Greenlees

Crews of Shadow 77 and 78, 73rd Expeditionary Special Operations Squadron, Joint Special Operation Air Component-Central receive Mackay Trophy 2021 awards during a ceremony at the National Museum of the U.S. Air Force at Wirght-Patterson Air Force Base, Ohio, Dec. 12. The Airmen earned the awards for their support of Operation Freedom’s Sentinel, which provided close-air support for 2,000 Americans evacuating the embassy in Kabul, Afghanistan, in August 2021.

DHWS highest-risk off duty

by Dawn Bodenner Air Force Safety Center

KIRTLAND AIR FORCE BASE, N.M.—To help Airmen and Guardians identify and lessen the risks they may encounter in their off time, the Air Force Safety Center’s department-wide campaign focus on offduty risk management is coming to an end. The campaign reaches out to the Air and Space Forces for participation in both video and safety slogan contests highlighting off-duty threats to the Human Weapon System.

At this stage of the campaign, the question was asked, “What are the highest risk off-duty activities?” This is a good, complex question.

In an October 2022 analysis, AFSEC’s Traffic Management and Outreach team identified highest-risk injury mishaps for off-duty USAF and USSF military member injuries by category and subcategory percentages. Highest risk activities resulting in injury include Motor Vehicle subcategories: automobiles (1,400), motorcycles (720), dirt bikes (121), and ATV/UTV/OHV (98). In the Team Sport category, Basketball injuries (568) were higher than football/rugby/lacrosse/flickerball (270) and soccer (177) combined. In Individual Sports, injuries from bicycling See DHWS, Page 15 MACDILL THUNDERBOLT

U.S. Air Force graphic by Dawn Bodenner ◆

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WEEK IN PHOTOS

Photo by Senior Airman Martinez

Guests pose for a photo during the Coalition International night at MacDill Air Force Base Dec. 8. International night originally started 19 years ago as a winter holiday for coalition members and their families with over 35 countries sharing their native customs and traditional foods.

Photo by Airman 1st Class Sterling Sutton

Photo by Airman 1st Class Michael Killian

U. S. Air Force Senior Master Sgt. Sierra Roberts, flight chief, individual reservist operations hands prefilled stockings to Airmen during the Operation Toy Drop at MacDill Air Force Base Dec. 9. Roberts worked alongside volunteers from the Tampa Bay community to collect and donate over five thousand toys, books, stuffed animals and bicycles to the MacDill community.

Service members and Operational Cookie Drop volunteers exchange fist bump during Operation Cookie Drop at MacDill Air Force Base Dec. 9. The goal of the event was to help spread cheer in preparation for the holidays.

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NEWS/FEATURES

JSADD restarts their engines this holiday season holiday parties across

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

Alcohol may influence your dance moves, but it shouldn’t influence your driving this holiday season.

Joint Services Against Drunk Driving is here this holiday season with the goal of getting all service members home safely to their families.

Volunteers from across the installation come together outside the duty day to ensure their wingmen have a safe mode of transportation after consuming alcohol.

“Joining JSADD has been a great opportunity,” said U.S. Air Force Senior Airman Dale Hammons, 6th Logistics Readiness Squadron passenger terminal technician. “It feels good to feel like I’m making a difference in the community.”

JSADD is sending volunteers to department

the installation to provide a safe alternative mode of transportation for all Department of Defense employees.

Units across the installation can request volunteers for anything from promotion release parties to unit sponsored social events.

“JSADD provides a safe, easy and convenient way for service members to find their way home,” said U.S. Air Force Tech. Sgt. Caleb Delbaugh, 6th Logistics Readiness Squadron noncommissioned officer in charge of command support staff. “Since the program’s renewal the base has seen a massive reduction in DUIs.” The program recently partnered with local rideshare organizations widening their reach to encompass the Tampa Bay metropolitan area including St. Petersburg, Clearwater, Brandon and Riverview.

See JSADD, Page 15

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Photo by Airman 1st Class Zachary Foster

U.S. Air Force Tech Sgt. Caleb Delbaugh, 6th Logistics Readiness Squadron noncommissioned officer in charge of command support staff

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BAH

From Page 2

families, just as our military families remain profoundly committed to their loved ones and to the nation that they all do so much to defend.”

Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin III Part of that effort was a review of the prospective 2023 basic allowance for housing rates to ensure they reflect unusual fluctuations in the housing market. Additionally, in the 28 areas DOD identified as having a more than 20% spike in rental housing costs above BAH, the secretary directed automatic increases in BAH, which took place in October.

According to a DOD release, the October rate increases were temporary and will expire Dec. 31, 2022.

Those who had received the temporary rate increases will switch over to the new BAH rates in the new year.

In addition to increased BAH rates to help military families, the Defense Department is also working on other initiatives, including efforts to make military moves less onerous, make securing childcare less difficult, and expand military spouse employment.

“These actions reflect the department’s sacred obligation to honor and support our service members and families,” Austin said in his memo. “We remain profoundly committed to doing right by our military families, just as our military families remain profoundly committed to their loved ones and to the nation that they all do so much to defend.”

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Photo by Marine Corps Cpl. Alex Fairchild

Marine Corps Staff Sgt. Victor Quezada, the aviation supply and preventative maintenance inspection supply staff noncommissioned officer in charge with Marine Aviation Logistics Squadron 36, 1st Marine Aircraft Wing, spends time with his family in Chatan, Okinawa, Japan, April 6.

Photo by Army Spc.. Rose Di Trolio, National Guard

A family of a deployed 35th Infantry Division soldier holds a sign to show their support at Kauffman Stadium, Kansas City, Mo., Sept. 11. ◆

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NEWS/FEATURES

Scholarships for Military Children accepting for 2023-2024

by Mike Perron DeCA public affairs specialist

FORT LEE, Va..—Applications have now opened for the Scholarshipsfor Military Children program for academic year 2023 – 2024.The program, entering its 23rd year, recognizes the contributions of military families to the readiness of the fighting force and celebrates the commissary’s role in enhancing military quality of life. Fisher House Foundation, a nonprofit organization dedicated to helping service members, veterans and their families, administers the program. The program has awarded more than $22 million to 12,812 students, selected from a pool of nearly 113,000 applicants.“The Defense Commissary Agency is again honored, for the 23rd year in a row now, to team with Fisher House Foundation and industry to promote this extraordinary opportunity for the children of military families to pursue their dreams in higher education,” said Marine Corps Sgt. Maj. Michael R. Saucedo, senior enlisted advisor to the DeCA director.For scholarship year 2023-24, Fisher House Foundation will award 500 scholarship grants of $2,000 each. The selection process will begin immediately following the application deadline of Feb. 15, at 11:59 p.m. PSTFunding for the program comes from commissary business partners and other contributions to Fisher House Foundation designated specifically for the scholarship programs.“We thank the Defense Commissary Agency for partnering

Courtesy graphic

with us to provide scholarships to our youngest members of the military community,” said Ken Fisher, chairman and CEO of Fisher House Foundation. “We also appreciate the donors and supporters who value how important our military families are and support them through our scholarship program.”Selection qualifications are straightforward. Re-

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TROPHY From Page 3

an Air Force person or organization, was presented to the crew by Vice Chief of Staff of the Air Force Gen. David Allvin, alongside NAA President Greg Principato.

“Shadow 77 and Shadow 78 – you own, now, a special place,” Allvin said. “Your name is on the same board with the greats … there’s not many that can say that. You earned your way onto that by being the best Airmen that you could when the nation called upon you.”

Not a matter of “if ” but “when” In the days and weeks leading up to Aug. 15, the gunship crews tracked the latest updates as Taliban forces made advances throughout Afghanistan.

At the time, the members of the 73rd SOS at Hurlburt Field, were deployed to Al Dhafra Air Base in the United Arab Emirates.

The crews remained on standby to support the U.S. withdrawal. “[We knew] it was going to happen at some point and that we were definitely going to be part of it,” Bachmann said. “It was surreal.”

On the morning of Aug. 15, the team assigned to Shadow 77 woke up to a notification telling them to report earlier than planned.

Capt. Lawrence Bria, 73rd SOS aircraft commander of Shadow 77, said the crews had just enough time to quickly grab food before heading to the gunship to get ready for takeoff.

“We didn’t know how long the night was going to go,” Bria said. “But, as we flew toward Afghanistan, we talked about how we were going to be there as long as we needed to be and as long as leadership would allow us to be there.”

As the gunship approached Kabul, they could see celebratory gunfire from the Taliban, as well as fireworks in the distance.

Upon arrival, Shadow 77’s initial mission was to provide overhead support as helicopter crews worked to evacuate the embassy and transport Americans to Kabul’s Hamid Karzai International Airport.

Shortly after, Shadow 78 arrived on scene to assist in the evacuation efforts.

Ultimately, the crews on board Shadow 77 and Shadow 78 served as “eyes in the sky,” Bria explained.

“We were there in case things went even worse and a threat came to the Americans, either at the embassy or on the airfield, we would be there, ready for it,” he said.

A highly modified aircraft, the AC-130J is used to perform close air support, air interdiction and armed reconnaissance missions. Unique to this gunship in particular, the AC-130J features a precision strike pack-

age that includes 30mm and 105mm weapons.

Additionally, the gunship is equipped with non-lethal, overt lasers that can be used for crowd control and to deter violence.

This feature in particular became helpful as chaos broke out on the airfield, Bria noted.

“During the rush toward the airfield, we were able to use the spotlight to help friendly forces on the ground,” Bria explained. “If we saw anyone try to jump the fence or make a break for it on the runway, we used it to help ground forces stop them.”

Their crowd dispersion efforts allowed eight U.S. Air Force C-17 Globemaster IIIs to land and take off from Hamid Karzai International Airport – carrying the Americans and Afghan refugees to safety.

In total, Shadow 77 and 78 executed a 29.8-hour mission – with Shadow 77 flying the longest unaugmented AC-130J flight to date at 15.7 hours.

While the mission lasted longer than some may have expected, Bria said the crews simply fell back on their training to push through.

“At that point, your instincts just kick in to make sure the Americans on the ground are safe, and you push your exhaustion and your stress and your worries to the side to get the mission done,” Bria said.

Air Force history Each of the 18 crew members received a medallion to commemorate their selection for the prestigious award.

During the ceremony, Air Force Special Operations Deputy Commander Maj. Gen. Matthew Davidson lauded the crews for their “relentless” commitment to the mission’s success.

“Shadow 77 and Shadow 78 have earned their spot on an incredible list of Airmen that are historic in our Air Force,” Davidson said. “America’s competitive advantages are these Airmen and those hundreds of thousands [of] others that are out there. No adversary will ever compete with the Airmen that the United States Air Force will put on the battlefield.”

Following the presentation, the trophy will return to its permanent display at the Smithsonian’s National Air and Space Museum in Washington, D.C. For the crews of Shadow 77 and 78, the award serves as recognition for all of the forces involved in the mission, Bachmann said.

“I wish that we could give it to every crew that was out there,” he said. “Everyone that was involved should take pride in this trophy being awarded in recognition of that mission.”

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Thursday, December 22, 2022

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Partner nation air forces deliver humanitarian aid during Operation Christmas Drop 2022 by 1st Lt. Danny Rangel 374th Airlift Wing Public Affairs ANDERSEN AIR FORCE BASE, Guam (AFNS)—Five partner nation air forces worked together to deliver humanitarian aid as part of Operation Christmas Drop 2022, the Department of Defense’s longest-running humanitarian aid mission delivering essential supplies to island communities in the western Pacific, Dec. 4-13.

Aircrew from the U.S. Air Force, Republic of Korea Air Force, Japan Air SelfDefense Force, Royal Australian Air Force and Royal New Zealand Air Force participated in the 71st Operation Christmas Drop this year, delivering 209 bundles of supplies weighing a total of more than 75,000 pounds to 57 locations in the Federated States of Micronesia and Republic of Palau.

“It is a phenomenal thing that we have been able to continue this tradition for 71 years,” said Lt. Col. Kira Coffey, 36th Airlift Squadron commander. “The 36th AS has been central to this effort and getting to see this event and seeing the tangible effect it has to the people on the islands is important and fulfilling.”

Eight partner nation C-130 Hercules traveled to Andersen Air Force Base to participate in the humanitarian mission. Crews took part in joint operations planning and preparation needed to ensure the successful delivery of each bundle.

“It was truly exciting to come together as an international team of Airmen for such a good cause,” said Capt. Andrew Zaldivar, 36th AS pilot and OCD mission commander. “Being able to be part of this mission is truly humbling, and I’m happy our team was able to work together with our partner nation aircrews to deliver aid to people living on these isolated islands.”

Items contained in each bundle included clothing, food, medical and school supplies, fishing equipment and other essential goods. Prior to the first airdrop, the base hosted a bundle build event where OCD participants joined local community volunteers to organize donations and decorate each box for delivery.

International participants in the OCD expressed their enthusiasm for the mission and support for the importance of delivering humanitarian aid.

“I’ve enjoyed meeting with other nations and sharing the common experience of delivering aid here in the Pacific,” said Royal New Zealand Air Force Flight Lieutenant Campbell Wilson, 40 Squadron detachment commander. “This aid is delivered with goodwill and with pride and love from all the agencies involved.

We’ve really enjoyed being part of it, and we’re honored to take part.”

Additionally, Operation Christmas Drop allowed U.S. and partner nation aircrew the opportunity to hone skills needed for future operations. Airmen delivered bundles using a low-cost, low-altitude delivery method, a way of effectively airlifting supplies to austere locations using fewer resources.

This year’s event culminated in a multinational seven-ship elephant walk down the Andersen AFB flightline, an event that included a C-130 aircraft from each participating country.

“It was exciting to see our partner nation C-130s come out and showcase the team effort that is so critical to the success of Operation Christmas Drop,” Coffey said. “We demonstrated how we can seamlessly work together as a team and integrate operations in support of delivering vital supplies to isolated communities. I’m proud of our international team of Airmen who have worked so hard to ensure this mission is successful.”

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Thursday, December 22, 2022

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A Japan Air Self-Defense Force C-130H Hercules assigned to the 401 signed to the 37 Squadron, Republic of Korea Air Force C-130H Hercule C-130H Hercules assigned to the 40 squadron, and U.S. Air Force C-130 national elephant walk at Andersen Air Force Base, Guam, Dec. 10, duri crewmembers delivered 209 bundles with humanitarian aid totaling mo

Photo by Yasuo Osakabe

1st Tactical Airlift Squadron, Royal Australian Air Force C-130J Super Hercules ases assigned to the 251st Tactical Air Support Squadron, Royal New Zealand Air Force 0J Super Hercules assigned to the 36th Expeditionary Airlift Squadron conduct multiing Operation Christmas Drop 2022. JASDF, RAAF, ROKAF, RNZAF, and USAF C-130J ore than 71,000 pounds of cargo to 22,000 remote Micronesian islanders.

Photo by Yasuo Osakabe

(Above)U.S. Air Force Capt. Maddie Atkinson and Capt. Eichard Armfield, 36th Expeditionary Airlift Squadron C-130J pilots, fly over Saipan, Dec. 1, during Operation Christmas Drop 2022. Yokota AB’s C-130J crew members practice skills that enable effective dynamic delivery in support of future operations.

(Left) Japan Air Self-Defense Force Capt. Shigenobu Matsufuji, 401st Tactical Airlift Squadron C-130H Hercules pilot, decorates a bundle box during Operation Christmas Drop 2022 at Andersen Air Force Base, Guam, Dec. 3. OCD is the Defense Department’s longest running humanitarian aid and disaster relief mission and provides aid to more than 50 islands throughout the Pacific. Operations such as OCD provide the U.S. and its partners the opportunity to enhance joint operational capabilities and maintain preparedness for real-world emergencies.

Photo by Yasuo Osakabe

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Thursday, December 22, 2022

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Thursday, December 22, 2022

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HOLIDAY BREAK MOVIES AT THE BASE THEATRE DECEMBER 2022

ALL MOVIES ARE FREE AND OPEN TO ANYONE WITH BASE ACCESS TO MACDILL. THEATRE OPENS 20 MIN BEFORE EACH SHOWTIME. SAT • DEC 17 1PM

THU • DEC 22 1PM

THU • DEC 22 4PM

FRI • DEC 23 1PM

THE POLAR EXPRESS (G)

LIGHTYEAR (PG)

JINGLE ALL THE WAY (PG)

HOW THE GRINCH STOLE CHRISTMAS (PG)

TUE • DEC 27 1PM

WED • DEC 28 1PM

THU • DEC 29 1PM

THU • DEC 29 4PM

THOR: LOVE & THUNDER (PG-13)

DC LEAGUE OF SUPERPETS (PG)

PAWS OF FURY: THE LEGEND OF HANK (PG)

BEAST (R)

FRI • DEC 30 1PM

WHERE THE CRAWDADS SING (PG-13) CHILDREN 12 AND UNDER MUST BE ACCOMPANIED BY AN ADULT NO CONCESSIONS AVAILABLE. PLEASE BRING YOUR OWN SNACKS RESPECT OTHERS BY SILENCING YOUR PHONES HELP KEEP OUR THEATER CLEAN BY REMOVING YOUR TRASH

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Thursday, December 22, 2022

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DHWS From Page 3

(241) were higher than all other subcategories including jogging/running/hiking (197).Included in the Motor Vehicle category which includes on-road and off-road vehicles, Personal Transportation Devices, from Segways to e-bikes, to folding scooters and hoverboards are becoming more popular, and injury mishaps are on the rise. Recent data indicates that PTDs should not be treated as toys, and the same attention to personal protective equipment when riding, such as wearing a helmet is paramount to preventing injury. While automobile and motorcycle mishaps are highest in rank, there has been a decrease from FY18/FY19 mishap numbers. Although injury mishaps have decreased for motorcycles, SEGT Branch Chief Michael Eckert said, “The most hazardous activity you can do in the Air and Space Forces, is to ride a motorcycle.”

To further Eckert’s point, from FY18 to FY22, there were 720 motorcycle mishaps and 54 included fatalities. In comparison, automobile mishaps included 58 fatalities out of 1,400 mishaps. Excessive speed, alcohol/drugs, and other controllable behavior factors contribute to fatalities and injury mishaps. Injuries including fracture, concussion, contusion, open wounds, and sprains and strains contribute to restricted duty, days away from work, medical restrictions, or transfer.

Though not included in the above categories, risk is inherent in all activities to include services, such as food preparation and housekeeping; outdoor recreation such as hiking, rock and mountain climbing, fishing and horseback riding; weapons handling and hunting; skiing, snowboarding and ice skating; private aircraft and flightline operations.So which categories represent a higher risk when we analyze data? What

qualifies as the highest-risk off-duty activities? Well, that depends.

Airmen and Guardians make good risk management decisions every day without even realizing they are doing it, but between FY2017 and FY2022, the Department of the Air Force lost 172 servicemembers to off-duty activities. Exposure to unnecessary risks while participating in common off-duty activities without proper risk assessments can result in damage, destruction, impeded job performance, injury, and loss of life.

Do you have a proactive mindset approach to risk off-duty? Do you plan and prepare for the sports you enjoy? Was an off-duty risk assessment done beforehand? Do you prepare for extreme sports or unusual physical challenges and think before doing something outside of your skill level?

Do you have the proper permissions before engaging in an off-duty activity?As the Air and Space Forces evolve, we continue to develop ways to mitigate threats to our weapon, mechanical and cyber systems, and we must do the same for our most valuable asset, the Human Weapon System.

Being healthy, staying fit, adaptive to change, and agile in problem solving increases the chances that Airmen and Guardians return to duty mission ready, critical to the success of our Air and Space Forces.

Poor decision making and unnecessary risks in the off-duty environment can turn any activity into a high-risk event. Taking a little time to think about the risks versus the consequences beforehand could both improve your enjoyment of the activity and prevent tragedy from happening regardless of the activity category.

JSADD From Page 5

This update provides service members with an option of 24/7 security.

If plans fall through, DOD employees can call 813-828-RIDE and receive a fully anonymous free ride home from anywhere in the Tampa Bay metropolitan area.

“I do this because I have a kid,” said Delbaugh. “I know that I would do anything to get home to her over the holidays, and I think more people

should use this service so they can do the same.”

Make the smart choice this holiday season and utilize the resources available to you. Call 813-828-7433 or 813-828-RIDE for assistance.

For more information on JSADD and the resources they offer contact Tech Sgt. Caleb Delbaugh at caleb.delbaugh@us.af.mil or Tech Sgt. Penny Cornell penny.cornell@us.af.mil.

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SCHOLARSHIPS From Page 7

quirements include completing the application; submission of the student’s official transcript indicating a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0 or above on a 4.0 scale for high school applicants, or college transcript indicating a cumulative minimum GPA of 2.5 or above on a 4.0 scale for students already enrolled in college; and a 500-word essay. The subject of this year’s essay is listed at the militaryscholar.org website under “Scholarships for Military Children.”Eligibility for the program is determined using the Defense Enrollment Eligibility Reporting System database. Applicants should ensure that they, as well as their sponsor, are enrolled in the DEERS database and have a current military dependent ID card. The applicant must also be planning to attend or already be attending an accredited college or university, full time, in the fall of 2023 or be enrolled in a program of studies designed to transfer directly into a four-year program.Applicants who are awarded a full scholarship to attend a college or university or receive an appointment to one of the service academies or affiliated preparatory schools are not eligible to receive funds from this program. A full scholarship is usually defined as one that provides for payment of tuition, books, lab fees and other expenses.All rules and requirements for the Scholarships for Mili-

tary Children program, as well as links to frequently asked questions are available at militaryscholar.org.Fisher House Foundation also has a free, easy to use custom scholarship search engine tailored to military families called “Scholarships for Service.” It’s available for both mobile devices and desktop computers at militaryscholar.org.

About DeCA: The Defense Commissary Agency operates a worldwide chain of commissaries providing groceries to military personnel, retirees and their families in a safe and secure shopping environment. Commissaries provide a military benefit, saving authorized patrons thousands of dollars annually on their purchases compared to similar products at commercial retailers. The discounted prices include a 5-percent surcharge, which covers the costs of building new commissaries and modernizing existing ones. A core military family support element, and a valued part of military pay and benefits, commissaries contribute to family readiness, enhance the quality of life for America’s military and their families, and help recruit and retain the best and brightest men and women to serve their country.

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Thursday, December 22, 2022

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TM

EXCHANGE

ARMY & AIR FORCE EXCHANGE SERVICE

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Thursday, December 22, 2022

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COMMUNITY

EVENTS

Holiday Break Movies Your MacDill Base Library will be offering free holiday movies through the Holiday break at the Base Theater. Movies are open to anyone with base access to MacDill. Visit https://macdillfss.com/library/ for a complete movie schedule.

MacDill Lanes bowling closure It is time to get those last few games in at the MacDill Lanes Bowling Center before it closes for exciting upgrades and renovations Jan. 2 – Feb. 6. MacDill Lanes is open Wednesday – Sunday 11 a.m.

– 6 p.m. Find more info at macdillfss.com/macdill-lanes-bowling/.

Universal, Disney military tickets on sale now Universal Orlando’s 2023 Military Freedom Pass and Disney World’s Armed Forces Salute tickets are now available at the ITT office located inside the BX on MacDill. Theme parks and local attraction tickets make great stocking stuffers! Visit the MacDill ITT office inside the BX or visit macdillfss.com/informationtickets-travel/ today.

Holiday gift shopping with FSS Looking for a last-minute holiday gift? Visit the Arts and Crafts center on MacDill for unique handcrafted items perfect for friends and family. Visit macdillfss.com/ arts-and-tradecrafts/ for more details.

This week’s champ

Photo by Tech Sgt. Austin Wilson

From left, U. S. Air Force Col. Adam Bingham, 6th Air Refueling Wing commander; U.S. Air Force Staff Sgt. Braden Aguirre, an information systems network technician assigned to the 6th Medical Support Squadron; and U.S. Air Force Chief Master Sgt. Shae Gee, 6th Air Refueling Wing command chief, pose for a photo to commemorate Aguirre for being the Champion of the Week at MacDill Air Force Base Dec. 13. Champion of the Week is a command initiative for 6th ARW leadership to recognize Airmen personally for their contributions to the 6th ARW’s mission.

CHAPEL SCHEDULE Catholic Christmas Schedule: Christmas Eve, Carols 8 p.m. / Vigil Mass 9 p.m.

Christmas Day, Christmas Mass 9:30 a.m.

New Year’s Day, New Year Mass 9:30 a.m.

Catholic Mass - Sunday - 9:30 a.m. (confessions by ap-

Normal Hours- Monday - Friday - 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. After

Jewish - Monthly Lunch and Learn: For schedule & to join

hours chaplain, call the Command Post at 828-4362/4361.

pointment)

Protestant services - Sunday - 11 a.m. distro, please contact elimelach.estrin@us.af.mil

Islamic Service - Friday 1:30 p.m. (space reserved)

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

Other Faith Groups - Please contact the Chapel at (813) 828-3621 or via email at 6ARW.HCADMIN@us.af.mil

www.macdill.af.mil/chapel

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

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Thursday, December 22, 2022

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Thursday, December 22, 2022

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News “For the WIN”

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

JANUARY ‘23

6th Force Support Squadron Telephone Extensions Prefix 828

2023Start the New Year Off Right!2023

Commander....................................... 2823 Deputy ................................................ 2823 Ops Officer......................................... 2703 Mortuary Affairs.............................. 6597 Unit Readiness ............................... 2252 Senior Enlisted Leader.....................3969 Honor Guard ....................................5190 First Sergeant.....................................4153 Marketing & Publicity.......................3055 Military & Family Readiness Flight..0134 Military & Family Readiness Ctr ......0145 Child & Youth Services Flight.......5097 Child Development Ctr 1.................. 3332 Child Development Ctr 2 ................. 2244 Child Development Ctr 3 ..................0195 Family Child Care .............................. 7760 School Age Care................................. 5971 Youth Center...................................... 7956 Civilian Personnel Flight................4286 Civilian Personnel .............................6090 Human Resource Office (NAF) .........2911 Community Services Flight............2921 Arts & Crafts Center..........................4413 Auto Hobby Shop ........................... 4553 Wood Hobby Shop .........................2093 Bay Palms Golf Complex ................0046 8 Iron Grill.........................................1507 Information, Tickets & Travel ...............2478 MacDill Bowling Lanes.....................4005 Hangar 6 Grill ...................................7735 Outdoor Recreation/Equip Rental/ FamCamp ................................ 840-6919 Pool............................................769-9901 Marina ..............................................4983 Skeet Range............................ 488-1244 Force Development Flight ............. 7320 Airman Leadership School.............. 2299 Base Theater...................................... 3607 Education .............................................3115 Library................................................. 3607 Professional Development...............1229 Training ...............................................4004 Manpower/Org Flight ..................... 9977 Manpower ............................................3711

AT

T H E

B A S E

T H E AT R E

January 2023

All Movies are FREE & open to anyone with base access to MacDill. Theatre opens 20 min before each showtime.

Tue, Jan 3 • 1pm The Bad Guys (PG) Thu, Jan 5 • 1pm Death on the Nile (PG-13) Thu, Jan 5 • 4pm Jurassic World: Dominion (PG-13) Fri, Jan 6 • 10am Minions: Rise of the Gru (PG) Fri, Jan 6 • 1pm Top Gun Maverick (PG-13) Tue, Jan 17 • 4pm Snake Eye (PG-13) Sat, Jan 21 • 1pm Encanto (PG) • Children 12 & under must be accompanied by an adult • No concessions available. Please bring your own snacks.

• Respect others by silencing your phones.

• Help keep our theater clean removing your trash.

MacDill Base Library (813) 828-3607 • macdillfss.com/library

Military Personnel Flight CAC Appointment Line ................796-5272 6fss.fsmps.deersidcards@us.af.mil Resource Mgmt Flight.....................1449 Private Organizations....................... 6962 Sustainment Services Flight ..........0034 2 Brews Catering...................... 840-2020 Diner’s Reef Dining Facility...............2412 Flight Meals....................................4998 Fitness Center...................................4496 MacDill Inn - Lodging........................ 4259 Rickenbacker’s ..............................7425 SeaScapes Restaurant ............. 840-1451 Breakaway Event Ctr/Boomers .. 840-2020

macdillfss.com

Do you have a New Year’s resolution to read more or engage with your community?

Come Join Our NEW Book Clubs at the Library!

Adults January 23 at 4:30pm • Teens January 30 at 4:30pm Crafting Club – January 11 & 25 (16+ ages) at 4pm STEM Club – January 12 & 26 (ages 7-17) at 4pm

6FSS NEWS

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Start the

BAY PA L M S G O L F C O U R S E • ( 8 1 3 ) 8 2 8 - 0 0 4 6

NEW YEAR

MARK YOUR CALENDARS...

with Gear from the Arts & Crafts Center

Mon-Fri • 9am-3:30pm

Bowling Center Arts & Crafts Center

Wood Shop DIY

Cypress Stand St

Auto Hobby Shop

Club Championship 4-5 March

Arts & Crafts Center

Hillsborough Loop Dr

Hangar Loop Dr

Thu-Fri • 9am-3:30pm 8223 Hangar Loop Drive, Bldg 300

Fitness Center

FREE GOLF LESSONS

(across from the Fitness Center)

813-828-4413

macdillartsandcrafts@outlook.com LASERING - AWARDS | PLAQUES - TROPHIES PROMOTIONAL PRODUCTS | CUSTOM FRAMING SHADOW BOXES | FLAG BOXES | CUSTOM WOOD WORKING WIDE-FORMAT PRINTING | GRAPHIC DESIGN

IF YOU DREAM IT, WE CAN DO IT! Quick & convenient passport photos

2 PHOTOS A rts & Craft s C en t er

NOW OFFERS

$15

for Active Duty & their Spouses 12-1pm every Wednesday, at the golf course driving range.

Instruction, golf balls and clubs will be provided, if needed.

No reservation required.

Pre-Teen Night Out MacDill Youth Center Jan 20 • 6-9pm

$10 Members $15 Non-Members Open to ages 9-12yrs Food | Fun | Games

Passport Photos for Leisure Travel

–By Appointment Only– To Book Make An Appointment Call (813) 828-4413

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Thursday, December 22, 2022

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6FSS NEWS

January ‘23 O U T D O O R

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R E C R E A T I O N

RECREATION FUN HEADQUARTERS! Bar Snacks

Full Bar

Now Open Wednesday - Friday 3-8pm Chicken Quesadilla

Nachos

Beefeater

MacDill Marina • Equipment Rental • FamCamp

Call (813) 840-6919 or (813) 840-6920 for more information & reservations.

NOW OPEN

Located inside the Short Fitness & Sports Center

BREAKAWAY

Salads & Bowls | Paninis | Smoothies Fruits-n-Snacks & MORE!

EVENT CENTER

Know Your Dining Options at MacDill AFB

6TH FORCE SUPPORT SQUADRON

Book Your Next Special Event!

8 Iron Grill (Golf Course)

No Room Fees for Official Events – Ask Us for Details!

Diner’s Reef Dining Facility (DFAC)

Weddings | Birthdays | Showers | Anniversaries | Reunions | Holiday Parties UNITE Events | Change of Command | Retirements | Commander’s Call Unit Team Building | Promotions | Community Hails & Farewells Training Classes | Professional Military Organizations

Catering Available | (813) 840-2020

ESM Card Holders Welcome!

Hangar 6 Grill (Bowling Center) Currently CLOSED Rickenbacker’s Cafe (Lobby of MacDill Inn) SeaScapes Restaurant (Base Beach) FitStop Smoothies & More (Fitness Center)

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Thursday, December 22, 2022

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6FSS NEWS

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January ‘23

INFORMATION, TICKETS & TRAVEL • TICKET COUNTER: (813) 828-2478 LEISURE TRAVEL OFFICE: (813) 828-1860

TICKETS ON SALE NOW!

TAMPA BAY LIGHTNING | ORLANDO MAGIC |ORLANDO SOLAR BEARS

Unlimited Refills All Day Long!

Purchase your ZooTampa souvenir cup here and receive FREE refills on your first visit!

Scan Me

PLUS, bring it back on your next visit and get unlimited refills for just $4.99.

WE SELL

2023

CONCERT/EVENT TICKETS!

Valid for purchase by Eligible U.S. Service Members TICKETS VALID: JANUARY 1 - DECEMBER 15, 2023 **NO REFUNDS** LIMIT 6 PER ELIGIBLE U.S. MILITARY MEMBER

Military member or spouse must be using one of the tickets and going into the park with the guests

BLACK OUT DATES: APRIL 2-15, 2023 AND NOVEMBER 19-25, 2023

Park Hopper Option

Reservations are needed for the park of choice (Magic Kingdom, Epcot, Hollywood Studios or Animal Kingdom ) and hopping to another park is allowed in the afternoon.

$349

$369

4-Day Park Hopper

5-Day Park Hopper

Park Hopper Plus Water Park Fun & More Options Adds additional admission to one of the Fun & More Options for 4 or 5 days: Blizzard Beach or Typhoon Lagoon Water Park, ESPN Wide World of Sports, Oak Trail Golf Course, Fantasia Gardens or Winter Summerland Miniature Golf

$379

$399

5-Day Park Hopper Plus

4-Day Park Hopper Plus

Price per ticket (Ages 3+) Days do not need to be used consecutively. Parking not included. All days must be used by 15 December 2023

UNIVERSAL ORLANDO 2023 MILITARY FREEDOM PASS

2-Park “2023 Military Freedom Pass” Promotional Ticket: $200 (Ages 10 & above) • $195 (Ages 3-9) 3-Park “2023 Military Freedom Pass” Promotional Ticket: $235 (Ages 10 & above) • $230 (Ages 3-9)

AVAILABLE FOR PURCHASE NOW-DECEMBER 24, 2023

Valid for use as follows: • 2-Park “2023 Military Freedom Pass” Promotional Ticket: Now - DECEMBER 24, 2023 • 3-Park “2023 Military Freedom Pass” Promotional Ticket: Now - DECEMBER 24, 2023 2-Park “2023 Military Freedom Pass” Promotional Ticket: Admission to BOTH Universal Studios Florida AND Universal’s Islands of Adventure on the same day. Available for use everyday from November 10, 2022 - through and including December 24, 2023 3-Park “2023 Military Freedom Pass” Promotional Ticket: Admission to Universal Studios Florida, Universal’s Islands of Adventure, AND Universal’s Volcano Bay theme parks on the same day. Available for use everyday starting November 10, 2022 through and including December 24, 2023. Universal’s Volcano Bay closed on select dates. Visit universalorlando.com for details.

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Thursday, December 22, 2022

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