Thunderbolt 2/29/2024

Vol. 52, No. 9

Thursday, February 29, 2024

News/Features: page 3 AIM lands in Puerto Rico

News/Features: page 3 Firefighters train to stay prepared

Week in photos: page 4 Images from the week

Photo by Senior Airman Michael Killian

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

U.S. Air Force Technical Sgt. Ryan Strittmatter, 927th Air Refueling Wing aircraft metals technician, left, Airman Logan Ollis, 6th Maintenance Squadron aircraft metals technology apprentice, center, and Airman 1st Class Thomas Allard, 6th Maintenance Squadron aircraft metals technician, discuss plans at MacDill Air Force Base Feb. 21. The 6th MXS metals technology flight is critical to the base’s operations, and by extension, the entire Air Force. Its work embodies a blend of hard work, dedication, creativity, and extreme precision, elements essential for excelling in a field that demands nothing short of perfection.

NEWS/FEATURES

DAF members recognized during BEYA STEM awards

by Staff Sgt. Adam R. Shanks Secretary of the Air Force Public Affairs ARLINGTON, Va. (AFNS)—Two Department of the Air Force members received awards during the 2024 Black Engineer of the Year Awards, Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics conference held at the Baltimore Convention Center, Maryland, Feb. 15-17.

At the 19th Annual Stars and Stripes Dinner Feb. 16, an Air Force Airman and a Space Force Guardian were recognized for their accomplishments in STEM-related fields over the past year.

Department of the Air Force Secretary Frank Kendall explained how STEM fields are vital in Great Power Competition and how leveraging diverse talents plays an integral part in national defense.

“The Air and Space Force rely on the best leaders and technical experts in the world,” Kendall said. “They perform our mission and keep America secure from growing threats. I’m grateful for everything the STEM community does to advance that mission. The DAF has the best talent our country has to offer.”

Air Force Chief of Staff Gen. David Allvin joined distinguished guests onstage to introduce Lt. Col. Shari Perkins, the Air Force’s annual award winner. A prior enlisted Airman,

Photo by Andy Morataya

U.S. Space Force Vice Chief of Space Operations Gen. Michael Guetlein (right) presents an award to U.S. Space Force Brig. Gen. Jacob Middleton during the 2024 Black Engineer of the Year dinner and awards ceremony, Baltimore, Md., Feb 16. The event honored top African American military leaders in science, technology, engineering and math.

Perkins holds multiple advanced degrees and now serves in the DAF’s executive action group.

Additionally, Perkins led projects that yielded more than $25,000 in funding for 40 STEM-re-

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.

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lated scholarships for youth.

“I can tell you from personal observation, See DAF, Page 12

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

AIM lands in Puerto Rico

by Senior Airman Jessica Do 6th Air Refueling Wing Public Affairs

Several members from MacDill Air Force Base’s Aviation Inspiration Mentorship (AIM) team traveled to Puerto Rico to meet with local schools in the community to enhance their understanding of aviation careers within the Air Force, Feb. 12-14th, 2024.

“AIM is a program that does outreach for communities so that we can teach and inspire the next aviators for the Air Force,” said U.S. Air Force Capt. Ashley Morgan, 91st Air Refueling Squadron pilot.

Detachment 1 of the Air Force Recruiting Service, Joint Base San Antonio-Randolph, Texas, developed the AIM concept to further promote the Rated Diversity Improvement. RDI is a strategy that seeks to strengthen diversity in rated career fields in the Air Force.

See AIM, Page 10

Photo by Senior Airman Jessica Do

U.S. Air Force Senior Airman Keegan Salas, 91st Air Refueling Squadron boom operator, performs aerial refueling over the Gulf of Mexico, Feb. 14. The 91st ARS operates under the 6th Air Refueling Wing with the KC-135 Stratotanker.

MacDill firefighters train to stay prepared

by Airman 1st Class Derrick Bole 6th Air Refueling Wing Public Affairs

To ensure the safety of our Airmen here at MacDill, firefighters strive to maintain a high standard of physical and technical readiness. Their strength and knowledge allows MacDill Airmen to charge the storm when it comes.

“Fitness is everything for a firefighter,” said Airman 1st Class Michael Banks, 6th Civil Engineer Squadron firefighter. “The way we train makes the difference between being able to save one person and saving four.”

Firefighters exercise daily with goals of endurance and strength. “Our kit can weigh upwards of 60 pounds,” said Banks. “We not only need to be strong enough to wear the kit, but also to carry another person for very long periods of time.”

Every day, firefighters train as a team by using a mix of strength and endurance exercises to maintain exceptional physical fitness. They frequently do weight-training, long-distance runs, high-intensity-training, and many other exercise methods.

See FIREFIGHTERS, Page 6

Photo by Airman 1st Class Derrick Bole

U.S. Air Force Airman 1st Class Michael Banks, 6th Civil Engineer Squadron firefighter, inspects parts of a fire engine following training at MacDill Air Force Base Feb. 12. Firefighters train daily to maintain proficiency with their equipment.

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WEEK IN PHOTOS

Airmen assigned to the 442nd Aircraft Maintenance Squadron load components of an A-10C Thunderbolt II assigned to the 303rd Fighter Squadron, Whiteman Air Force Base, Missouri, onto a C-17 Globemaster III assigned to the 89th Airlift Squadron, Wright Patterson AFB, Ohio, at MacDill AFB Feb. 15.

The 303rd FS completed a twoweek long close air support exercise over Avon Park, Florida, utilizing MacDill AFB as a temporary duty station.

Photo by Senior Airman Zachary Foster

Photo by Senior Airman Joshua Hastings

Photo by Airman 1st Class Derrick Bole

U.S. Air Force Academy cadet Isabella Flodin serves to an opponent from the U.S. Military Academy at the United States Tennis Association National Campus, Orlando Feb. 17. The service academies were featured for College MatchDay, a USTA neutral-site college tennis showcase event. The Air Force men’s and the Army women’s team won 4-1.

U.S. Air Force honor guardsmen assigned to MacDill Air Force Base, stand at attention during Dr. Dora Mays’ retirement ceremony at MacDill AFB, Feb. 15. Mays retired after 30 years of civilian service, including more than 20 years at MacDill’s Military Family Readiness Center.

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NEWS/FEATURES Metal Techs Refine Success

by Senior Airman Michael Killian 6th Air Refueling Wing Public Affairs

Within the heart of MacDill Air Force Base, the 6th Aircraft Maintenance Squadron metals technology flight work in an environment where precision and fabrication meet challenges with creativity. This unique flight is critical to base operations, and by extension, the entire Air Force.

“We are the last line of defense of maintenance” said Airman 1st Class Thomas Allard, 6th MXS aircraft metals technician. “We deal with the parts on the plane that no one else can. We’re the only shop on base that can do the extremely precise measurements required to keep these essential parts working.”

The squadron’s tasks range from the intricate fabrication of aircraft parts to the precise repair of vital equipment. The dedication to precision is unparalleled, with tolerances as thin as a single strand of hair, highlighting the meticulous attention to detail required in their daily tasks.

“We are the people who make the things that don’t exist, we creSee METAL, Page 7

Photo by Senior Airman Michael Killian

U.S. Air Force Senior Airman Thomas Allard, 6th Maintenance Squadron metals technician, performs metal work on MacDill Air Force Base Feb. 21. Metal technicians are responsible for welding and fabricating metal components for aircraft to ensure they are functioning and mission ready.

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FIREFIGHTERS From Page 3

Firefighters spend their down time training not just their bodies, but also their minds.

“We get together at multiple times throughout the day to review our standard operating procedures (SOPs),” said Airman 1st Class Daniel Zizzo, 6th Civil Engineer Squadron firefighter. “It’s incredibly important to know exactly what we need to do and where to be in order to best protect the people at MacDill.”

A firefighter’s SOPs give them guidance on many of the situations they might face in the field.

Firemen gather daily to review SOPs that consist of guidance for setting up fire engines, proper equipment maintenance, emergency procedures, and other topics vital to performing their job and maintaining their occupational proficiency.

“Our job is the epitome of maintaining readiness,” said Zizzo. “From operating our trucks and exercising, to securing our equipment and working 48-hour shifts, we train to keep everyone on base safe.”

Fires don’t wait for firefighters to be ready, therefore our Airmen must fight to stay one step ahead of disaster, here on the Championship Peninsula.

Photo by Airman 1st Class Derrick Bole

(Above) U.S. Air Force Airman 1st Class Daniel Zizzo, 6th Civil Engineer Squadron firefighter, performs an incline bench press at MacDill Air Force Base Feb. 12. Zizzo performs physical training with his section daily to maintain physical readiness.

(Left) U.S. Air Force Airman 1st Class Daniel Zizzo, 6th Civil Engineer Squadron firefighter, inspects parts of a fire engine following training at MacDill Air Force Base Feb. 12. Firefighters train daily to maintain proficiency with their equipment.

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

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METAL From Page 5

ate the highly specialized parts that aircraft old and new need in order to fly.” said U.S. Air Force Tech. Sgt. Adam Wyatt, 6th MXS metals technology section chief.

Metals tech Airmen can work on anything from simple stuck screws on jets, to massive parts, like a boom maintenance support beam, that could take even the most experienced technicians months to complete.

Leadership within the unit plays a pivotal role in nurturing the talents and ambitions of its members. By promoting a culture of growth and innovation, Airmen undertake projects that not only challenge them, but also contribute significantly to the Air Force’s capabilities.

“We take 18 year old kids and teach them how to run computer numerical control machines from scratch.” said Wyatt.

The squadron’s impact extends beyond MacDill, influencing Air Force operations. Their dedication to excellence and the Photo by Senior Airman Michael Killian ability to perform under tight tolerances, ensure MacDill re- U.S. Air Force Senior Airman Thomas Allard, 6th Maintenance Squadron metals technician, performs metal work mains at the forefront of main- on MacDill Air Force Base Feb. 21. Metal technicians are responsible for welding and fabricating metal components for aircraft to ensure they are functioning and mission ready. taining equipment and assets.

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Tinker K-8 School commemorates Black History Month at MacDill story and photos by Senior Airman Lauren Cobin 6th Air Refueling Wing Public Affairs

T

inker K-8 School students gathered for an assembly in celebration of Black History Month here, Feb. 22.

The event emphasized the contributions of African Americans throughout U.S. history, but also served as a platform for fostering a sense of community and understanding among the diverse student body of Tinker K-8 School.

In attendance were students, parents, teachers and military personnel from the MacDill AFB community, all of whom expressed gratitude for the inclusive and educational event.

The assembly included informative speeches by service members and student-led presentations. Tinker’s jazz and chorus group showcased their talents with a range of musical and dance performances that reflected the rich culture of Black communities.

“It is important to honor everyone that has done something for our country and has made a difference to get to where we are today,” said Saylor Mullins, a 5th grade student and chorus member. “Performing today shows people, especially the younger kids, to do what you love and love what you do, and to not let anyone else change their minds.”

Kenton Tallant, an 8th grade student and jazz band member, added his gratitude for the opportunity to perform.

“This is important to me because I get to experience different cultures through music,” he said. “I am thankful to get to experience events like this at the base.”

Two African American members of the 6th Air Refueling Wing collaborated in a musical performance for the students.

Laron Washington, 6th Air Refueling Wing equal opportunity director, played piano and sang, while Senior Airman Quban Hall, 6th Logistics Readiness Squadron air terminal representative, played saxophone. This display highlighted the spirit of unity and camaraderie that Black History Month seeks to promote.

Col. Edward Szczepanik, 6th ARW deputy commander, encouraged students to recognize the contributions of African Americans throughout history and embrace valuable lessons from the past.

As the observance of Black History Month continues, events like these provide invaluable opportunities for communities to engage in meaningful conversations, promote understanding and celebrate the achievements of African Americans who have positively impacted the nation and armed forces.

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(Above) Tinker K-8 School students participate in an assembly at MacDill Air Force Base, Florida, Feb. 22, 2024. The assembly included student performances and presentations in celebration of Black History Month.

(Far left) Tinker K-8 School students perform during an assembly at MacDill Air Force Base Feb. 22. The assembly was held in celebration of Black History Month, which honors the history, culture and contributions of Black communities.

(Left) Tinker K-8 School students perform during an assembly at MacDill Air Force Base Feb. 22. The assembly was held in celebration of Black History Month, which honors the history, culture and contributions of Black communities.

AIM

From Page 3

Photo by Senior Airman Jessica Do

U.S. Air Force Capt. Vicky Gil, 91st Air Refueling Squadron pilot, speaks with students at Antilles High School in Guanynabo, Puerto Rico, Feb. 12.

Members from MacDill Air Force Base’s Aviation Inspiration Mentorship (AIM) team traveled to Puerto Rico to meet with local schools in the community to enhance their understanding of aviation careers within the Air Force.

During the two-day trip, AIM members visited two schools and held a KC-135 Stratotanker static display event for four additional schools at Muñiz Air National Guard Base, hosting over 260 students from the surrounding communities.

“I am very appreciative to be here today,” said Senior Airman Keegan Salas, 91st Air Refueling Squadron boom operator. “For me, it was rewarding to come back and give back to the community in which my family came from and teach them a little bit about what I do in the Air

Force.”

Carlos Antonetty Feliciano, a JROTC cadet at Antilles High School in Guanynabo, Puerto Rico, explained that the experience solidified his goals of becoming a fighter pilot in the United States Air Force.

“I definitely enjoy the [KC-135] and I enjoyed seeing the boom, which hopefully I get to see from another point of view as a fighter pilot eventually,” Feliciano said. “Today really set in stone what I want to do in the future.”

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NEWS SecAF Kendall AFA Warfare Symposium Q&A: Reoptimizing for Great Power Competition Secretary of the Air Force Public Affairs AURORA, Colo. (AFNS)—Secretary of the Air Force Frank Kendall sat down with retired Lt. Gen. Bruce “Orville” Wright, AFA president and chief executive officer, for a “Fireside Chat” to close out the AFA Warfare Symposium Feb. 14 on the same note that it started, with a look at how the services will operate in an era of Great Power Competition.

The Q&A-style discussion addressed key takeaways from the reoptimization announcement, how the Department of the Air Force will address resourcing issues and breaking through barriers to streamline change.

A recap of the discussion can be found below: Airmen and Guardians are still wrapping their brains around what exactly all this change means for them. What do you think are the changes our Airmen and Guardians will feel the most, and what changes will be most apparent?

There are a lot of things that will affect us down at the unit level. It won’t happen overnight, but I think it’s going to happen reasonably quickly. We are going to orient our operational units on being ready for the fight we might have to be in at any time, and the leaders in charge of commanding those organizations are going to be tasked with it. Start thinking now about what we need to do to be more ready and do it. The conflict can happen at any time, and we need to be as ready as we possibly can. We’re going to be making some changes to how units are set up and all the things that units need to deploy. We’re also going to look at our garrisons and make sure they’re set up like they need to be. You’re going to see opportunities open up for career paths like tech tracks and warrant officers for a small subset of the force. In general, you’re going to see your training orient more on things you need to be effective in a Great Power Competition. We’re going to minimize people having to move, and we’re going to minimize cost, but we’re going to move out pretty quickly. So, buckle your seatbelt, don’t sit still, and go ahead and move forward. We don’t have any time to waste.

China aims to be able to take Taiwan one way or the other by 2027. Is there possibly a risk that restructuring could cost us readiness in the near term?

I don’t think so. We can maintain our readiness while See GREAT POWER, Page 14

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DAF

From Page 2

her work ethic is as strong as her personality,” Allvin said. “In 2023, she took the reins and shepherded the development of the Air Force’s diversity, equity, inclusion and accessibility strategic plan, ensuring that we had purposeful approaches to recruiting, outreach and retention.”

U.S. Space Force Vice Chief of Space Operations Gen. Michael Guetlein took the stage to introduce the Space Force’s annual award winner, Brig. Gen. Jacob Middleton. Middleton, a career missile officer, who currently serves as the deputy director for operations at the National Military Command Center in Washington, D.C. “[Middleton] embodies honor, courage and commitment,” Guetlein said. “He’s highly regarded in the Air and Space Force, having received the National Reconnaissance Office gold medal and the Defense Meritorious Service Medal … I could not be more thrilled that you’re honoring this battletested warrior.”

The BEYA STEM conference is a three-day event held annually for more than three decades, focusing on minorities with professional interests in STEM fields. It offers high school and college students; as well as corporate, government and military professionals; an opportunity to come together to participate in networking, mentorship sessions, learning opportunities and recognition ceremonies.

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Photos by Andy Morataya

(Above) Air Force Chief of Staff Gen. David Allvin shakes hands with Master Sgt. Megan Stanislaus at the 2024 Black Engineer of the Year dinner and awards ceremony, Baltimore, Md., Feb 16.

Stanislaus accepted the award in honor of an Airman who could not attend the event.

(Left) Secretary of the Air Force Frank Kendall addresses the audience as he takes part in the 2024 Black Engineer of the Year dinner and awards ceremony, Baltimore, Md., Feb 16,. The event honored top African American military leaders in science, technology, engineering and math.

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GREAT POWER From Page 11

doing this transition. I don’t see any fundamental impact on the fighting force. There shouldn’t be. The goal is to as quickly as possible, get to a better posture.

General Saltzman is introducing Space Futures Command. How is that similar or different from Army Futures Command?

Let me contrast the three. The Air Force, the Space Force, and the Army.

I’ve spent 50 years listening to arguments on whether requirements come before technology or vice versa. It’s an irrelevant conversation. Basically, the two have to work together as a team. I am a big fan of extreme teaming, and I’m also a big fan of having a balance between the different elements to try and get better solutions. The two have to work very closely together. I think the Army tipped too close to the operations side. The futures command of the Space Force is going to be an integrated organization that has that integrated perspective and will bring the operations and technology sides of the conversation together in one organization. On the Air Force side, we’re doing it a little differently. We’re going to have Integrated Capabilities Command that’s going to be operator-commanded. It will be a three-star. They’re going to be working to get to the best possible solutions for the entire department. There’s a healthy tension in this if it’s done right, you’ve got to bring the two together. Having an operational and a technological lead is something we’re going to try to institutionalize throughout the system.

Not surprisingly, the decision to bring back warrant officers in limited career fields has sparked a lot of interest. Could we get more on your vision as to what warrant officers will bring to the fight?

In the last few years, we’ve had 100 people leave the Air Force to go be warrant officers in another service, in cyber and IT, which is why we need warrant officers. Somebody else made the comment that the thing warrant officers can provide you with are people who are very technically proficient, and they stay current all the time; that’s all they’re going to do.

They’re the trainers and the mentors in their units, both for other officers and the enlisted members. It gives us technical continuity, and you don’t get that unless you stay in that field. I think there’s a great opportunity there. We’re going to do it with cyber and IT first, the operational need there is the greatest. At some point, we’ll think about if there are other fields where it makes sense, but for now, our focus is on getting cyber and IT ready.

We’ve all experienced the frozen middle — the great and slow bureaucracy. How are you going to break through that barrier with so many changes all at once?

It’s hugely important. Life at the Pentagon tends to be a team sport, and one team, one fight applies to the Department of the Air Force all working with others who are stakeholders, the joint staff; you’ve got to keep their interests in mind, and you have to communicate with them effectively to be successful. I learned a long time ago that you don’t get anything done on your own by forcing things through. You get things done by informing people, bringing them along, explaining to them what you’re doing and why you’re doing it, and getting their buy-in and support. We were hugely successful with the operational imperatives work. Make the case for what you need and show all the work you need to do to be successful. Building teams, teamwork, and explaining what you need to do works. The people we’re dealing with want to do the right thing, you just need to persuade them that what you want to do is the right thing.

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Integrated Capabilities Command has been needed for a long time. Can you talk a bit more about your thoughts on that?

I think it’s important for organizations to have clear missions. Our forces that are designed to be ready to fight now; their leadership needs to focus on that. We need our readiness commands to focus on readiness. We need a capability that works together to achieve the overall mission. By putting this together, we can have an organization that’s focused on that.

We need to be aware of the fact that we’re in a long-term competition. We have to not only have ready forces today, but we need people building a pipeline to have those capabilities over time, and we need to make sure that those resources devoted to that are run efficiently.

As you’ve traveled around and met Airmen from AFCENT, PACAF and USAFE, what did you learn that you didn’t already know?

I think I increased my appreciation of the high quality of our force and the quality of the people, and particularly our enlisted people. Today’s force is dramatically different than the force of the past, and I would say it’s one of our greatest strengths.

Was there a base or a mission as you traveled around the world that informed you in the context of mission focus?

What I see is a lot of people who have their heads in the game and want to do better see the deficiencies that we have and are trying to do better.

I see a lot of innovation going around. I don’t see it in a particular part of the force. I see it everywhere. I see it in nuclear forces, mobility forces, and our fighter forces. I see it wherever I go. We’re a high-quality organization, wherever we are and whatever we’re doing. I think we’ve got all the raw materials we need to make the changes we talked about to prepare ourselves. Frankly, it’s all about deterrence. We don’t want a war, and if we’re really ready and the Chinese understand that, we’re not going to have one.

For our industry and national security counterparts, are you starting to see a stovepipe in the space and air industry?

There’s been a lot of conversations about that. I got to meet with several companies during this conference. Both from our traditional defense suppliers as well as a lot of new entrants that have been with us less time, there’s enormous intellectual capital there. We want the industry working with us to help solve our problems. It goes back to extreme teaming. It has to be done with the recognition that industry does have an incentive to make money; that’s what corporations do, but that doesn’t mean they don’t care about what we’re trying to do. They have tremendous technological talent. We need to bring all that together to help us make the best decisions and solutions.

Could you bring together what the merging of air and space capabilities will look like?

I think the operational imperatives are designed to identify that and flesh it out and move us toward that. I think we’re in a race; we’ve got to go as quickly as we can. The other guys are moving toward it, too, trying to adapt technology more quickly. All the things we announced are designed around the underlying ideas of competitiveness and urgency. One of the central features of what we’re trying to do is an increased reliance on space-based capabilities. The Air Force and the whole joint force is going to become more reliant on the Space Force. We’re going to have a mix of capabilities and try to confront our adversaries with more than one problem, but space is going to be increasingly critical and decisive in a peer conflict.

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COMMUNITY

EVENTS

Spring craft market Get ready to celebrate spring at the craft market on Mar. 2. Join the Arts & Crafts Center for a day of craftivities for all ages. Browse through a variety of grab & go items, shop from local vendors showcasing their unique creations, and indulge in delicious bites from food trucks parked onsite.

For more information, visit bit.ly/ SpringCraftMarket24.

2024 Club Championship Don’t miss out on the Bay Palms 2024 Club Championship on Mar. 2 and 3. The tournament is open to all patrons with access to MacDill AFB. Stroke play, amateurs only and must have current USGA GHIN to compete for net score.

Price includes green fees, cart, and lunch. $110 Advanced Green Fee Holders/$150 Active Duty & Retirees/$175 Civilians. For details, visit bit.ly/ClubChampionship24.

Boomers call-in deals Craving fresh salads, mouthwatering wings, or delicious shareables? Look no further than Boomers! Call in your orders every Thursday and Friday between 3-7 p.m. and treat yourself to a delectable feast. Dial 512-8441 to place your order and pick it up to go, hassle-free! For more information visit macdillfss.com/boomers/.

Free golf lessons for active duty Mar. 13 & 27 from 12–1 p.m., active duty and their spouses can enjoy free instruction, golf balls and clubs at the driving range. No reservations required, check in at the Pro Shop 10 minutes prior to start time.

The Champ!

Photo by Senior Airman Michael Killian

U.S. Air Force Col. Edward Szczepanik, 6th Air Refueling Wing deputy commander, center, and Senior Airman Khya Lynwood, 50th Air Refueling Squadron non-commissioned officer in charge of Squadron Aviation Resource Management, sign a board during a Champion of the Week recognition at MacDill Air Force Base Feb. 20. Lynwood was recognized for her work in reviewing over 20,000 critical checklist items for 23 training sorties which played a critical role in training six new boom operators and co-pilots.

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, February 29, 2024 u WWW.MACDILLTHUNDERBOLT.COM u 15

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News

“Refuel the Force”

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

MARCH ‘24

6th Force Support Squadron Telephone Extensions Prefix 828

Commander....................................... 2823 Deputy ................................................ 2823 Ops Officer......................................... 2703 Mortuary Affairs.............................. 6597 Unit Readiness ............................... 2252 Senior Enlisted Leader.....................3969 Honor Guard ....................................5190 First Sergeant.....................................4153 Marketing & Publicity.......................3055

2024

EASTER

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

MARCH 23

Civilian Personnel Flight................4286 Civilian Personnel .............................6090 Human Resource Office (NAF) .........2911 Community Services Flight............2921 Arts & Crafts Center..........................4413 Auto Hobby Shop ................... 373-6545 Wood Hobby Shop .........................2093 Bay Palms Golf Complex ................0046 8 Iron Grill.........................................1507 Information, Tickets & Travel ...............2478 MacDill Bowling Lanes.....................4005 Hangar 6 Grill ...................................7735 Outdoor Recreation/Equip Rental/ FamCamp ................................ 840-6919 Pool............................................769-9901 Marina ....................................... 840-1513 Skeet Range............................... 488-1244 Force Development Flight ............. 7320 Airman Leadership School.............. 2299 Base Theater...................................... 3607 Education .............................................3115 Library................................................. 3607 Professional Development...............1229 Training ...............................................4004 Manpower/Org Flight ..................... 9977 Manpower ............................................3711 Military Personnel Flight CAC Appointment Line ............... 828-6673 6fss.fsmps.deersidcards@us.af.mil Resource Mgmt Flight.....................1449 Private Organizations....................... 6962 Sustainment Services Flight ..........0034 2 Brews Catering...................... 840-2020 Diner’s Reef Dining Facility...............2412 Flight Meals....................................4998 Fitness Center...................................4496 MacDill Inn - Lodging........................ 4259 Rickenbacker’s ..............................7425 SeaScapes Restaurant ............. 840-1451 Breakaway Event Ctr/Boomers .. 840-2020

macdillfss.com

10AM–12PM

Fitness Center South Field GAMES & PRIZES EASTER BUNNY EGG HUNTS

Face Painting | Arts & Crafts | DJ | Food Trucks | Kona Ice Snow Cone Truck

EGG HUNT TIMES EFMP: Ages 1–4: Ages 5–8: Ages 9–12: Ages 13+: Adults:

10:15AM 10:30AM 10:45AM 11AM 11:15AM 11:30AM

For More Info Call:

(813) 828-7438 www.macdillfss.com/youth

Download the App!

Search for Tampa Bay Airfest 2024

@MacDillFSS

TA M PA B AY

AIRFEST REHEARSAL

THURSDAY, MARCH 28

OPEN TO ID CARD HOLDER WITH BASE ACCESS ONLY PERMITTED GATES OPEN: 10:30AM PRACTICE BEGINS: 12PM THUNDERBIRDS PRACTICE: 3PM Food trucks & drinks available.

Ramp will close promptly after the Thunderbirds perform.

6FSS NEWS

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March ‘24

ARTS & CRAFT CENTER • (813) 828-4413

If you can dream it, we can create it!

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

Get Out on the Water!

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

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

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

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

CLUB CHAMPIONSHIP 2-3 March

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

FREE ACTIVE DUTY CLINIC

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

Open to service members and their immediate families.

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FIRST TIME BOAT RENTER DEAL 50% OFF Boat Rental Any Weekday. (Mon, Wed-Thu)

*Must complete the boatus.org boater safety course before renting

BOATER REFER A FRIEND PROGRAM $25 OFF Boat Rental, Any Weekday. (Mon, Wed-Thu)

Refer a friend and you will receive $25 off your boat rental.

Friend must be named and be in the RecTrac System for renting at least one boat rental.

FREQUENT BOATER RENTAL CARDS Half-Day & Full-Day Cards Available

6FSS NEWS

March ‘24 ESM Welcome!

LET US COOK DINNER! Call in Order To-Go Food Served 3-7PM

Bounce Back Menu

Featuring... Salads, Wings, Nachos & MORE!

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NEW!

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inside Breakaway Event Center

OPEN

THU & FRI 3-8PM Food | Full Bar | Pool Tables TVs | Thursday Billiards & BBQ | Friday Stampede

OPEN FOR LUNCH & DINNER!

MENU FEATURING...

Nachos, Salads, Beach Time Favorites, Baskets, Sandwiches & MORE! TRIVIA EVERY TUESDAY! 7PM

DJ & KARAOKE EVERY FRIDAY!

SHORT FITNESS CENTER

STARTING MARCH 11!

CHECK OUT THE MENU! For Inquiries Regarding Special Events at SeaScapes Phone: (813) 840-2020 6FSS.2.brewscatering@us.af.mil

TUE-THU 11AM-9PM • FRI 11AM-10PM • SAT 3PM-10PM FOOD SERVED: TUE-FRI 11AM-8PM • SAT 3PM-8PM BAR: OPENS AT 3PM

POWER EATS

GRAB & GO!

BENTO BOXES

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6FSS NEWS

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March ‘24

INFORMATION, TICKETS & TRAVEL

Ticket Counter: (813) 828-2478

Leisure Travel Office: (813) 828-1860

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

EXTENDED TO APRIL 28!

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

“LETS GET WILD”

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

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

Additional restrictions may apply.

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

All Positions Starting At

$15/HR or Higher

HOS P I TALI T Y ADMINIS T RAT I V E REC R EAT I O N C H I L D & YO U T H

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

macdillfss.com/open-jobs/

@macdillfss 4

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mac dillf s s .c o m