Thunderbolt 03/31/2022

Vol. 50, No. 13

Thursday, March 31, 2022

News/Features: page 2 U.S. united with NATO

News/Features: page 3 2022 UTC Sapphire Event

Week in photos: page 4 Images from the week

Photo by Airman 1st Class Joshua Hastings

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

A KC-135 Stratotanker aircraft assigned to the 6th Air Refueling Wing provides aerial refueling for a CF-18 Hornet aircraft assigned to the 433rd Tactical Fighter Squadron in support of North American Aerospace Defense Command’s (NORAD) Operation Noble Defender (OND), March 16. As a part of OND, which is a recurring operation, the Continental U.S. NORAD Region (CONR) coordinated and conducted bi-national aircraft training intercept operations while concurrently launching jets from different locations across the United States’ East Coast. This iteration of OND, involving First Air Force and Air Forces Northern assets, is an integrated air and missile defense operation designed to ensure the defense and security of the northern approach to North America.

NEWS/FEATURES

Biden: NATO has never been more united

by Jim Garamone DoD News “NATO has never, never been more united than it is today,” said President Joe Biden following an alliance meeting in Brussels today.

Biden participated in an extraordinary summit meeting at the alliance headquarters, just one month after Russian President Vladimir Putin broke the peace of Europe by invading Ukraine.

The president noted that the day after the Russian invasion, NATO held a meeting. “At that time, my overwhelming objective in wanting that summit was to have absolute unity on three key important issues among our NATO and European allies,” he said. “First was to support Ukraine with military and humanitarian assistance.”

The second was to impose the most significant economic sanction regime to cripple Putin’s economy and punish him for his actions. “Third, was to fortify the eastern flank of our NATO allies who were obviously very, very concerned, and … worried what would happen,” he said.

All this happened and the meeting today was put in place to build on these efforts. “The United States has committed to provide over $2 billion in military equipment to Ukraine since I became president, anti-air systems, anti-armor systems, ammunition. And our weapons are flowing into Ukraine as I speak.”

In addition, Biden announced $1 billion in humanitarian relief for Ukrainians affected by the war. “Many Ukrainian refugees will well wish to stay in Europe closer to their homes, but we also will welcome 100,000 Ukrainians to the United States with a focus on reuniting families,” Biden said.

He also announced the United States will invest $320 million to bol-

NATO photo

President Joe Biden and NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg walk through NATO headquarters in Brussels, March 24. ster democratic resilience and defend human rights in Ukraine and neighboring countries.

The United States in tandem with the European Union, Canada and Japan will also look at the effect Putin’s war will have on food and energy security. The nations are also sanctioning more than 300 members of the Russian Duma, oligarchs and defense companies that fuel the

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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See NATO, 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 AFB, FL 33621. Call the Thunderbolt at 828-2215. Email: 6arw.pa.macdillthunderbolt@ us.af.mil.

Deadline for article submissions is noon, Wednesdays to appear in the next week’s publication. Articles received after deadline may be considered for future use. All submissions are considered for publication based on news value and timeliness.

Every article and photograph is edited for accuracy, clarity, brevity, conformance with the “Associated Press Stylebook and Libel Manual” and Air Force Instruction 35-101.

NEWS/FEATURES

MacDill aircrew inspires next generation at 2022 UCT Sapphire Event

by Airman 1st Class Lauren Cobin 6th Air Refueling Wing Public Affairs NAVAL AIR STATION PENSACOLA, Fla.—Pilots, boom operators and maintainers from the 6th Air Refueling Wing inspired the next generation of Airmen by highlighting the capabilities of the KC-135 Stratotanker during the 2022 Undergraduate Combat Systems Officer Training Sapphire Event at Naval Air Station Pensacola, Florida, on March 11.

Junior ROTC members, ROTC members, undergraduate combat systems officers and community partners spent time exploring the aircraft with the aircrew from the 91st Air Refueling Squadron assigned to MacDill Air Force Base, Florida.

Senior Airman Bryan Arias, a boom operator assigned to the 91st ARS , felt the experience made him appreciate his job even more.

“I think it’s beneficial to have these events and show people what we do,” said Arias. “Before I joined the Air Force, I had no idea that the KC-135 even existed and now I get to explain that it plays a huge [and] important role in all types of operations within the Air Force.”

The following day, a group of ROTC students from Florida State University joined the 91st on an orientation flight to experience an air refueling training mission over the Southeastern United States.

See SAPPHIRE, Page 12

Photo by Airman 1st Class Lauren Cobin

A group of Florida State University ROTC cadets and U.S. Air Force 1st Lt. Tim Reed, a pilot assigned to the 91st Air Refueling Squadron, pose for a photo near a KC-135 Stratotanker assigned to MacDill Air Force Base at Naval Air Station Pensacola, Florida, March 12. The students flew in the MacDill aircraft as part of an orientation flight to strengthen relations and bolster community support.

Voice of empowerment: Women’s History Month luncheon

by Airman 1st Class Michael Killian 6th Air Refueling Wing Public Affairs

Airmen from the 6th Air Refueling Wing recognized the accomplishments and struggles of women, both past and present, at a Women’s History Month luncheon, March 11, inside the chapel annex.

Women’s History Month is celebrated every March, seeking to raise awareness of the contributions of women throughout history. The observance started as a one-day event in 1978 that later evolved into a weeklong celebration. Nearly a decade after its inception, it is now celebrated for the entirety of a month.

MacDill celebrated this occasion by inviting April Arnold, a Tampa Bay local women’s advocate, to be a key guest at the luncheon. She spoke to Airmen about her story and spread the message of women’s empowerment.

She spoke about her story of resilience and how she gives back to those in need. Her childhood was plagued by abuse, drugs and sexual exploitation, but through her strength and faith, she has remained 14 years clean. She is now a full-time employee Created Tampa, a nonprofit committed to assisting outreach programs and providing community assistance to those in a position she once was in.

See WOMEN, Page 10

Photo by Airman 1st Class Michael Killian

U.S. Air Force 6th Air Refueling Wing leadership and Airmen pose for a group photo with the Women’s Army Corps historical marker during a Women’s History Month luncheon at MacDill Air Force Base March 11.

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WEEK IN PHOTOS

Photo by Airman 1st Class Hiram Martinez

U.S. Air Force Colonel Benjamin Jonsson, 6th Air Refueling Wing commander, delivers remarks to service members participating in the Armed Forces Men’s Soccer Championship at MacDill Air Force Base March 7,. The week prior, MacDill hosted applicants to attend a 12-day trial camp where 18 overall athletes were selected to represent each service’s team. At this year’s event, participants represented bases from all over the world to include countries such as Germany, England and Spain.

Photo by Senior Airman David D. McLoney

Photo by Airman 1st Class Joshua Hastings

U.S. Air Force senior master sergeant (Senior Master Sgt.) selects gather for a photograph during the SMSgt Selection Ceremony at MacDill Air Force Base March 11. This year, 1,443 of the 17,419 master sergeants eligible for promotion were selected to promote to E-8.

U.S. Air Force Airman Elijah Brand, 6th Communication Squadron Radio Frequency Transmission Systems (RFTS) technician, mounts an antenna on a CTM-15 Antenna Mast at MacDill Air Force Base March 10. RFTS technicians deploy, sustain, troubleshoot and repair antenna systems, tuners and transmission lines to ensure the functionality of base communications.

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NEWS/FEATURES

509th Bomb Wing receives historical painting of Enola Gay

by Senior Airman Parker J. McCauley 509th Bomb Wing Public Affairs

WHITEMAN AIR FORCE BASE, Mo.— 509th Bomb Wing leadership put “The Peacemakers”, a painting by John Shaw, on display on Dec. 1 at Whiteman Air Force Base, Missouri.

A community partner originally donated the painting, which depicts the Enola Gay being prepared for the first atomic bombing mission, to the 6th Air Refueling Wing at MacDill Air Force Base, Florida, before it was transferred to the 509th Bomb Wing. The Enola Gay, a Silverplate B-29 Superfortress, was formerly assigned to the 509th Composite Group.

See PAINTING, Page 8

Photo by Senior Airman Parker J. McCauley

The 6th ARW traces its lineage to the 6th Bombardment Group, assigned to Tinian at the same time as the 509th CG. Before being captured by American forces, Tinian was a colony of the Japanese Empire and it was suspected that the local population may have been transmitting intelligence about American forces on the island. The 509th CG wanted to draw attention away from itself and replaced its distinctive markings with those of the other bomb groups.

The Enola Gay was one of several aircraft to display the markings of the 6th BG including their circular “R” tail code.

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MacDill supports CONR-1AF, Operation Noble Defender with aerial refueling story and photos by Airman 1st Class Joshua Hastings 6th Air Refueling Wing Public Affairs HAPPY VALLEY-GOOSE BAY, Newfoundland and Labrador—Mission readiness requires that members of the Air Force be prepared to respond to duty anytime, anywhere.

Under the direction of CONR-1AF, the 6th Air Refueling Wing provided aerial refueling in an arctic environment Mar. 16 for Canadian CF-18 Hornet aircraft in support of North American Aerospace Defense Command’s Operation Noble Defender.

NORAD is the United States and Canada bi-national organization that operates alongside United States Northern Command to conduct aerospace warning, aerospace control and maritime warning in the defense of North America.

As stated in a strategy summary by Gen. Glen D. VanHerck, commander of NORAD and USNORTHCOM, competitors and potential adversaries have watched how the United States works with Canada in deterring, competing and conducting war over the last few decades. With the advancement of our competitor’s capabilities and their increased activity in the Arctic, unified continental defense is a critical component for remaining strong at home.

Capt. Tyler Hannah, 91st Air Refueling Squadron pilot, was the aircraft commander for the successful refueling mission which centered around aircraft training intercept operations.

“The 6th ARW’s involvement in OND shows that the wing is ready to respond when needed in any type of climate around the world, from the Arctic region to desert climates in the Middle East,” Hannah said. “Although personnel within the 6th ARW are used to the hot, tropical climate of Florida, the exercise displayed our wing’s abilities to adapt to a much different climate than what we are accustomed to.”

Multiple units from the 6th ARW played a role in OND. The 6th Logistics Readiness Squadron provided members with essential cold-weather gear for sub-zero temperatures.

The 6th Maintenance Group ensured that the KC-135 Stratotanker aircraft used for refueling was equipped with a boom drogue adapter for the arctic environment, and the 91st ARS provided aircrew members to perform the mission.

“Weather is always a critical factor when operating in the Arctic region,” Hannah said.

“Operating in sub-zero temperatures with snow and ice present pose unique challenges, such as the need for aircraft de-icing, warming up engines and hydraulics prior to taxi, and landing in less than ideal weather conditions. Our ability to operate in these conditions showcases the 6th ARW’s resiliency and ability to adapt to any climate around the world.”

Maintainers from the 6th Maintenance Group were responsible for preparing the tanker aircraft for flight and aerial refueling prior to the aircraft intercept mission.

“The 6th MXG was able to deliver because each member was efficiently trained and understood the importance of why we were there,” said Senior Airman Jeremiah Greene, 6th Aircraft Maintenance Squadron crew chief. “Our leadership did a great job of making sure we had all the resources we needed to be fully mission capable.”

Despite this mission being the first time many of the maintainers have experienced arctic weather conditions, they were able to operate and provide the necessary pre-flight tasks for the KC-135.

“We’re ready whenever,” Greene said. “It’s important to be able to adapt because the mission can take place anywhere.”

This exercise put on display the rapid air mobility capabilities of the 6th ARW in an arctic environment as well as NORAD’s commitment to the United States and Canada working together to deter adversaries and achieve a globally integrated layered defense.

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U.S. Air Force Airman 1st Class Aviles Adames, 6th Maintenance Squadron crew chief , adjusts to the cold-weather climate during North American Aerospace Defense Command’s (NORAD) Operation Noble Defender (OND), March 15.

U.S. Air Force Airman 1st Class Aaron Jacobs, 6th Aircraft Maintenance Squadron maintainer, unloads gear off a bus during North American Aerospace Defense Command’s (NORAD) Operation Noble Defender (OND), March 15.

Maintainers assigned to the 6th Maintenance Group place engine covers on a KC-135 Stratotanker aircraft assigned to the 6th Air Refueling Wing after landing on the flight line during North American Aerospace Defense Command’s (NORAD) Operation Noble Defender (OND), March 15. As a part of OND, which is a recurring operation, the Continental U.S. NORAD Region (CONR) coordinated and conducted bi-national aircraft training intercept operations while concurrently launching jets from different locations across the United States’ East Coast.

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PAINTING From Page 5

The 6th ARW traces its lineage to the 6th Bombardment Group which was assigned to Tinian at the same time as the 509th CG. Before being captured

by American forces, Tinian was a colony of the Japanese Empire and it was suspected that the local population may have been transmitting intelligence about American forces on the island.

The 509th CG wanted to draw attention away from itself and replaced its distinctive markings with those of the other bomb groups. The Enola Gay was one of several aircraft to display the markings of the 6th BG including their circular “R” tail code.

In light of this shared history, Photo by Senior Airman Parker J. McCauley the 6th ARW and the community partners who donated be- U.S. Air Force Col. Kyle Wilson, 509th Bomb Wing vice commander, points at an M2 High Speed Tractor on a lieved Whiteman AFB would be painting of the 509th Composite Group on Tinian Island, Dec. 1 at Whiteman Air Force Base, Missouri. the best home for the painting.

Exchange salutes young heroes

by Jeanette Devins Army & Air Force Exchange Service Public Affairs The Army & Air Force Exchange Service, the Department of Defense’s largest retailer, is saluting the spirit of America’s youngest heroes with virtual activities, events and prizes during Month of the Military Child.

Starting April 1, the MacDill AFB BX will give away military “brat” patches. The collectible patches, which have been part of the Exchange’s celebration of military children since 2018, will be available in-store while supplies last.

“The Exchange is honored to salute 1.6 million American military brats during the Month of the Military Child,” said MacDill BX General Manager, Thomas Kuttamperoor. “Virtual contests, sweepstakes and instore events help create special memories for military children. Team Exchange is looking forward to this monthlong celebration.”

Events and offers include: Sweepstakes offering more than $10,000 in the hottest toys and Exchange gift cards. Authorized shoppers 18 and older can enter atShopMyExchange.com/sweepSee MILITARY CHLD, Page 10

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NATO

From Page 2

Photo by Air Force Master Sgt. Ray Aquino

In support of Ukraine, a partner nation under the National Guard’s State Partnership Program, airmen assigned to the 129th Rescue Wing came together to build care packages at Moffett Air National Guard Base, Calif., March 8.

Russian war machine, he said.

Finally, Biden said that Putin launched his invasion absolutely sure that NATO would split apart. Instead, the United States deployed more than 20,000 troops to Europe. Other allies stepped up and moved forces to the eastern border of the alliance.

“NATO established … four new battle groups in Romania, Hungary, Bulgaria and Slovakia to reinforce the Eastern Front,” he said. “Putin was banking on NATO being split. My early conversation with him in December and early January, it was clear to me he didn’t think we could sustain this cohesion. Putin is getting exactly the opposite [of] what he intended to have as a consequence of going into Ukraine.”

6th ARW Chapel Holy Week Schedule

u Monday, April 11: 12:10 Daily Mass u Tuesday, April 12: *No Daily Mass u Wed, April 13: 12:10 Daily Mass and Penance Service from 17:30 - 19:00 u Thursday, April 14: 19:00 Mass of the Last Supper followed by Eucharistic Adoration until 2130 (**No 1210 Daily Mass) u Friday, April 15: 14:15 Stations of the Cross followed by 1500 Good Friday Service u Saturday, April 16: 2000 Easter Vigil Celebration (**No 1730 Mass) u Sunday, April 17: 0930 Easter Sunday Mass & Easter Egg Hunt after Mass

USCENTCOM death announcement Staff Sgt. Matthew Estrada tragically passed away on Dec. 31, 2021. If you owe or are owed any debits by Staff Sgt. Estrada, please reach out to Maj. Brian Bopp at (813) 529-6035 or brian.m.bopp.mil@mail.mil by April 15, 2022. Please have appropriate documentation to support your claims.”

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WOMEN From Page 3

Staff Sgt. Peteranthony Anakwe, 6th Maintenance Squadron aerospace propulsion craftsman, said he found a lot of value in hearing from both service members and civilians. “April Arnold being a civilian brought more awareness to the wider community around MacDill,” Anakwe said.

Arnold credits a lot of her success to her faith and the many people who helped her during her time of need.

“My life has changed because they walked alongside me and loved me until I could love myself; they could see me even though I didn’t see myself,” said Arnold. “I’ve come a long way, and I have a lot to say. I have a lot more work to do and I’ll never stop doing what I do. I will never relapse.”

She hopes to inspire those who are going through tough situations to seek mental health. She also hopes to inspire Airmen to volunteer for outreach programs and to lend a helping hand to vulnerable women.

“We have so many opportunities to volunteer,” said Arnold. “We do street outreach. We have a computer lab open five days a week where women can spend three hours a day working on their General Education Development studies.”

Arnold advocates for mental health and preaches how therapy has been a non-negotiable asset in her life, especially when helping guide vulnerable women. She wants to be a lifelong advocate for volunteer work and to see Airmen make a positive impact wherever they go.

Photo by Airman 1st Class Michael Killian

April Arnold (left), an intake specialist for Created Tampa, and U.S. Air Force Tech Sgt. Sarabrian Jackson, a physical education dock coordinator assigned to the 6th Comptroller Squadron, pose for a picture with a certificate at MacDill Air Force Base March 11. Arnold was awarded a certificate of appreciation by the 6th Air Refueling Wing commander during a Women’s History Month luncheon

MILITARY CHILD From Page 8

stakes.

Four weekly virtual contests: the Play-Doh Sculpting Event April 1-7; Hasbro Gaming Contest April 8-14; Nerf Blaster Contest April 15-21; and Disney Ultimate Princess Event April 22-28. Judges will select four winners from each event. VisitShopMyExchange.com/sweepstakes for complete contest rules.

A coupon for a free treat at participating Exchange restaurants from April 1 through April 30 for military children 18 and younger. Treats include a free side item, fountain drink or dessert. Coupons are available while supplies last. Shoppers can contact the MacDill BX for more information.

“Purple Up” event in April. Military families can drive up or visit the MacDill Exchange and receive a free goodie bag and certificate of appreciation. Shoppers can contact the MacDill Exchange for the date, time and event location.

The Exchange’s community Hub is packed with activities, games, free drawing lessons, videos and more information about the monthlong celebration. Military families can find Month of the Military child exclusive deals, event details, sweepstakes information and more on the Hub at ShopMyExchange.com/momc.

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COMMUNITY

EVENTS

Youth basketball registration Sign up at the youth center through April 8. Open to ages 5-15 with current immunization records. Call 828-7438 to register your child.

MOMC library party April 2 Hours are 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. Join us at the base library for crafts, stories, games, gifts and popcorn.

All ages welcome to celebrate military kids.

M&FRC bundles 4 babies April 5 Multiple base agencies will provide information and services to assist participants in preparing for the arrival of their new baby. Participants will receive a bundle of information, resources and a special gift (if eligible).

Charter scuba dive trip April 9 Register through April 4 for a great dive in the Gulf for beginners through advanced. Visit https://macdillfss.com/event/charter-scuba-dive-trip-gulf-of-mexico.

We are hiring The 6th Force Support Squadron is hiring in the following areas: u recreation u food service u hospitality u child and youth For job information, visit: https://macdillfss.com/open-jobs/ Find more events at: macdillfss.com

Courtesy photo

Master Chief Petty Officer of the Navy Russell Smith and Gen. Richard D. Clarke, U.S. Special Operations Command (USSOCOM) commander, both center, pose for a photo with members of the Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School during an orientation on the pilot study of the long-term effects of repetitive, low-level blast exposure (RLLBE) of Special Operations Forces service members, named ReBlast, at the Athinoula A. Martinos Center for Biomedical Imaging. U.S. Special Operations Command is leading DOD efforts to determine the effects career-long repetitive blast exposure has on brain health and function. USSOCOM initiated the pilot study, in collaboration with Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard University and a multi-institutional team of experts in traumatic brain injury.

CHAPEL SCHEDULE Normal Hours- Monday - Friday - 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. After hours chaplain, call the Command Post at 828-4362/4361.

Jewesih - Monthly Lunch and Learn: For schedule & to join distro, please contact elimelach.estrin@us.af.mil

Muslm - Muslim Prayer: Friday 1300 (space

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

reserved)

www.macdill.af.mil/chapel

Other Faith Groups - Please contact the Catholic (in-person) - Saturday - 5:30 p.m.

(confession 4:30 p.m.) Sunday - 9:30 a.m. (confessions by appointment)

Protestant services - Wednesday - 11 a.m.. virtual) - Sunday - 11 a.m.

Chapel at (813) 828-3621 or via email at 6ARW. HCADMIN@us.af.mil MacDill’s Chapel website is: https://www.macdill. af.mil/chapel

For more details and information, visit the Chapel Facebook page at http://www.facebook/6amwhc/ MACDILL THUNDERBOLT

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SAPPHIRE From Page 3

The group of 12 witnessed an air refueling of an RC135 Rivet Joint, first-hand, assigned to Offutt Air Force Base, Nebraska.

The students laid in the boom-pod during refueling and spent time in the cockpit throughout the orientation flight.

“By hosting students and ROTC cadets on these types of flights, we get the chance to give them ideas for career paths that they might be interested in pursuing,” said Airman 1st Class Cassandra Wesley, a boom operator assigned to the 91st Air Refueling Squadron.

Not only did the Sapphire event expose students to aviation careers, but the event celebrated the diversity of the past, present and future aviators while honoring the first female combat systems officers of class 78-01.

“It is so important to show students that you can be a female pilot, boom and you can even be a maintainer,” said Tech. Sgt. Diandra Sims, 6th Aircraft Maintenance Squadron flying crew chief.

Jordan Williams, FSU ROTC cadet, explained that she felt the experience was eye-opening for many as she witnessed students discussing the excitement of the flight and their excitement to be the future of the U.S. Air Force.

“This is great exposure,” said Williams. “Seeing all of the different things you can accomplish as part of the Air force has been amazing.”

The 6th ARW remains committed to building an agile and diverse force to inspire future leaders and will continue to offer orientation flights to strengthen community relationships and motivate students to chase their goals.

“I know that I have the future watching me,” said Sims.

“No matter what people say, you can do anything that you want to do.”

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Photo by Airman 1st Class Lauren Cobin

U.S. Air Force Airman 1st Class Cassandra Wesley, a boom operator assigned to the 91st Air Refueling Squadron, reviews a checklist with Evelynn Kite, a Florida State University ROTC cadet, prior to a refueling mission over the Southeastern United States, March 12. Boom operators have the ability to pump thousands of pounds of fuel to any capable aircraft, thousands of feet above the ground, enabling rapid global mobility.

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