Thunderbolt 6/20/2024

Vol. 52, No. 25

Thursday, June 20, 2024

News/Features: page 2 Miss America’s fitness tips

News/Features: page 3

Fighter Jet manuevers

Week in photos: page 4 Images from the week

Photo by Senior Airman Jessica Do

Community: page 10 Events, Chapel, more...

U.S. service members participate in Operation Blue Horizon, June 6 at MacDill Air Force Base. OBH is a joint force exercise that reinforces core competencies and fundamental practices for military medical professionals. Instructors graded participants on their proficiency in providing Tactical Combat Casualty Care, trauma nursing, and aeromedical evacuation.

NEWS/FEATURES

Fitness tips from active-duty Miss America

by Miriam Thurber HQ Air Force Recruiting Service JOINT BASE SAN ANTONIO-RANDOLPH, Texas—Some days 2nd Lt. Madison Marsh wears her Air Force uniform, and other days she dons sash and crown as Miss America 2024. One day, Marsh will reach for combat boots, and the next she’ll grab heels, but, most often, Marsh laces up a pair of well-worn sneakers.

As an active-duty officer, Marsh works out daily to maintain the Air Force’s physical fitness standards and to pass the regular fitness tests. Although her schedule as Miss America 2024 keeps her on the road most weeks, Marsh still finds time to prioritize an active lifestyle, even from a hotel room.

“It’s difficult to stay consistent while on the road,” Marsh said. “I’ve noticed that if I slack off for a week, it’s very difficult to get back into it.”

Nevertheless, fitness remains a cornerstone of Marsh’s daily practice, whether that means a long session in a gym or a quick workout in her hotel room using just her bodyweight.

Marsh credits her fitness-focused mentality to See FITNESS, Page 12

Photo by Miriam Thurber

Second Lieutenant Madison Marsh, crowned Miss America 2024, stretches before her workout on Joint Base San Antonio-Randolph, Texas, on May 16, 2024. Staying active and fit is a cornerstone of Air Force service.

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,

2

u

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.

WWW.MACDILLTHUNDERBOLT.COM u Thursday, June 20, 2024 u MACDILL THUNDERBOLT

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

Ramstein ALS first Army instructor

by Airman 1st Class Olivia Sampson 86th Airlift Wing

U.S. Army Sgt. 1st Class Sonia J. McElfresh’s, 7th Army Noncommissioned Officer Academy instructor, journey from the front lines to the classroom is a testament to the transformative power of experience and resilience. Her military career, initially fueled by a desire for challenge, led McElfresh through diverse roles as a chemical specialist and a squad leader.

McElfresh’s military journey was marked by a mix of challenges and triumphs, each experience shaping her into the leader she is today.

From deciphering protocols during chemical attacks to leading reconnaissance missions in Hawaii, she navigated through diverse environments.

It was her unexpected transition to the role of an instructor at Ramstein Airman Leadership School that reshaped her trajectory and newfound passion for teaching, and made her the first Soldier to teach an ALS class.

See RAMSTEIN Page 11

Photo by Airman 1st Class Olivia Sampson

U.S. Air Force Airmen in Ramstein Airman Leadership School listen to an instruction during class at Kapaun Air Station, Germany, May 14. ALS is the first level of professional military education for enlisted Airmen to experience. ALS is designed to be an entry level leadership enhancement course to prepare senior Airmen for positions of greater responsibility by strengthening their ability to lead, follow and manage while also gaining a broader understanding of the military profession and their role within the Air and Space Forces

USAFE hosts first-ever basic fighter maneuver exercise at Ramstein

by Airman 1st Class Trevor Calvert 86th Airlift Wing RAMSTEIN AIR BASE, Germany—Thirty-seven fighter jets from nine NATO countries participated in Ramstein 1v1, U.S. Air Forces in Europe’s first-ever basic fighter maneuvers (BFM) exercise at Ramstein Air Base, Germany, June 6.

Participants included military aviators from the U.S., United Kingdom, Norway, Netherlands, Belgium, Denmark, Finland, France and Germany.

Aircraft included F-35A Lightning IIs, F-16 Fighting Falcons, Eurofighter Typhoons, Dassault Rafale Cs, F/A-18 Hornets and Douglas A-4 Skyhawks.

During the exercise, aviators engaged in a friendly match of basic fighter maneuvers to test their rapid decision-making and precise reactions to adversary maneuvers in a high-pressure, demanding setting – an essential skill for fighter pilots.

“Basic fighter maneuvering – sometimes called dogfighting – is a foundational skill set for fighter pilots,” said Lt. Col. Michael Loringer, U.S. Air See FIGHTERS, Page 8

Photo by Airman 1st Class Trevor Calvert

An F-35A Lightning II takes flight during Ramstein 1v1 at Ramstein Air Base, Germany, June 6. Ramstein 1v1 included 37 fighter aircraft from nine NATO countries such as F-35A Lightning IIs; F-16 Fighting Falcons; Eurofighter Typhoons; Dassault Rafale Cs; F/A-18 Hornets and a Douglas A-4 Skyhawk.

MACDILL THUNDERBOLT u Thursday, June 20, 2024 u WWW.MACDILLTHUNDERBOLT.COM u 3

WEEK IN PHOTOS

Photo by Senior Airman Lauren Cobin

Members of the 6th Medical Support Squadron poses for a group photo at MacDill Air Force Base June 12. The 6th MDSS provides administrative support to health care providers and beneficiaries. Additionally, they are responsible for the care and upkeep of the entire medical facility and its assets.

U.S. Army Photo by Sgt. Ethan Scofield

Photo by Airman Monique Stober

U.S. Army Major Gen. William L. Zana, director, Strategic Plans and Policy, and International Affairs (NGB-J5), reflects on his time with the Tomb of the Unknown Solider during an interview in Arlington National Cemetery, Va. May 31. Zana ended his Army career by standing guard at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. He spent the evening talking with the current Tomb Guards and remembering his time honoring the Unknowns.

U.S. Army Staff Sgt. Richard Sanders, a UH-60 Blackhawk crew chief, performs pre-flight checks during Operation Blue Horizon at MacDill Air Force Base June 5. OBH was a joint exercise featuring military medical professionals from Air Force and Navy installations around the country.

4

u

WWW.MACDILLTHUNDERBOLT.COM u Thursday, June 20, 2024 u MACDILL THUNDERBOLT

NEWS/FEATURES

Medical Airmen train in field for future deployments, combat readiness

by Master Sgt. Becky Vanshur 124th Fighter Wing Airmen from the Idaho Air National Guard’s 124th Medical Group traveled outside of familiar ground, to train in a field environment near Little Camas Reservoir in Elmore County, June 5-8, in preparation of future deployments.

“The intent for this field training was to get the entire medical group exposed to the field environment for deployment readiness, as well as pushing comfort zones and team building,” said Maj. Mark Urban, critical care air transport team physician.

Approximately 65 medical personnel practiced treating and stabilizing casualties using tactical combat casualty care in a simulated deployed location while defending medical structures and personnel and becoming familiar with survival skills.

The Airmen were trained on Survival, Evasion, Resistance and Escape skills from Master Sgt. Raymond Perez, 124th Fighter Wing SERE specialist. His goal is to prepare the U.S. military personnel to be able to survive in intense situations in unfamiliar surroundings.

“The medical teams will be geographically separated from the hospitals while deployed, functioning from a forward operating base,” said Perez. “I am training them on personal protection, clothing, building shelters, building fires, mental and physical health, environmental safety and protection, water purification and food

Photo by Master Sgt. Becky Vanshur

U.S. Air Force medical specialists assigned to the 124th Medical Group, Idaho National Guard, traveled outside of familiar ground, to train in a field environment near Little Camas Reservoir in Elmore County, June 5-8, in preparation of future deployments. Medical personnel focused on TCCC, point of injury, patient packaging, calling in a 9-Line medevac, patient movement, ground treatment and prolonged field care while training on map and compass skills, signaling and recovery and making ground-to-air signals with flares for air rescue. sustenance. We are going to find food in the area, anywhere from vegetation on the ground, to hunting animals that we will cook and eat.”

Medical personnel focused on TCCC, point of injury, patient packaging, calling in a 9-Line

medevac, patient movement, ground treatment and prolonged field care while Perez trained them on map and compass skills, signaling and recovery and making ground-to-air signals with flares for air rescue.

MACDILL THUNDERBOLT u Thursday, June 20, 2024 u WWW.MACDILLTHUNDERBOLT.COM u 5

Photo by Senior Airm

U.S. World War II veteran Mr. Ceo Bauer, Former 377th Infantry Regiment rifleman, is buckled in by Staff Sgt. Carlos Garcia, 86th Aeromedical Evacuati ron aeromedical evacuation technician, for a veterans flight commemorating the 80th anniversary of D-Day at Cherbourg-Maupertus Airport, France, J sacrifices made by U.S. service members and our Allies during World War II serve as a reminder of the importance of solidarity in times of adversity.

USAFE honors D-Day veterans with commemorative flights in France

by Senior Airman Regan Enriquez 86th Airlift Wing

T

wo World War II veterans flew on commemorative flights in honor of the 80th anniversary of D-Day at Cherbourg-Maupertus, France, June 7.

The flights were coordinated by Captain Christian Maude, 37th Airlift Squadron mission commander, who worked with United States Air Forces in Europe and other participating squadrons to make it happen.

Maude said he saw the anniversary as a unique opportunity to pay homage to the veterans bravery and to express gratitude for the sacrifices made by the men and women in Normandy 80 years ago.

The two veterans, Ceo Bauer, former 377th Infantry Regiment rifleman, and Louis Stoel, former member of the 45th Infantry Division, had the opportunity to fly with members of the 37th Airlift squadron out of Ramstein Air Base, Germany, with support from the 81st Airlift Squadron out of Little Rock Air Force Base, Arkansas.

Stoel’s neighbor and granddaughter accompanied him on the commemorative flight, making it an unforgettable experience. He joined the U.S. Army in 1943, and volunteered to become a ranger, he then made his way to Italy and France during the course of WWII. “Coming back to France 80 years later is out of this world,” Stoel added. “I 6

u

WWW.MACDILLTHUNDERBOLT.COM u Thursday, June 20, 2024 u MACDILL THUNDERBOLT

want to thank the aircrew for flying us around the country today a the opportunity to meet with such a great group of people.”

Much like Stoel, Bauer’s experience was one to remember.

Bauer was drafted into the U.S. Army in 1943 as well, he was the beaches during D-Day in 1944. 80 years later, he was accompanied and friends as he flew over Normandy for the first time since he serv “It has been an honor to fly in a C-130 for the first time with my ions,” Bauer said. “I couldn’t see Normandy when I flew over the fir appreciate the opportunity and I thank the crew.”

Having the opportunity to fly was unique not only for the aircrew the veterans themselves.

“We have the ability to do a big thing for veterans to show that w them and remember the sacrifices the men and women made 80 y said Maude. “It’s an opportunity to show the greatest generation w built and how we can operate and execute based on that today.”

The commemorative flights were part of a larger series of events the 80th anniversary of D-Day. The event included flyovers, comm ceremonies and opportunities for the veterans to interact with curren personnel and locals, bridging the gap between generations and ensu the legacy of D-Day continues to inspire.

“I am honored to have been a part of liberating France in the name lied nations,” said Bauer. “Vive la France, and long live America.”

Dany Patrix Boucherie, a childhood survivor of D-Day, goes on a flight in a C-130J Super Hercules aircraft, assigned to 37th Airlift Squadron, Ramstein, Germany, in a commemorative flight of the 80th anniversary of DDay at Cherbourg-Maupertus Airport, France, June 7. On June 6, 1944, strength of alliance, dedicated resolve and a multi-national, multi-domain operation won the day.

Overall, the successful Allied landings created the basis for Europe’s future stability, as well as the reality that international collaboration could ultimately overcome totalitarianism.

man Jordan Lazaro

tion SquadJune 7. The

Photo by Senior Airman Jordan Lazaro

U.S. World War II veteran Mr. Ceo Bauer, Former 377th Infantry Regiment rifleman, looks out the window of a C-130J Super Hercules aircraft, assigned to 37th Airlift Squadron, Ramstein, Germany, in a commemorative flight of the 80th anniversary of D-Day at Normandy, France, June 7. We honor those in whose footsteps we follow by remaining ready and postured to face regional and global threats in an increasingly dynamic security environment in Europe.

e

and having

ere on the by family ved. y companrst time, I

w, but also

we care for years ago,” what they

s honoring memorative nt military uring that

e of the al-

Photo by Senior Airman Jordan Lazaro

FIGHTERS From Page 3

Forces in Europe – Air Forces Africa chief of weapons and tactics. “It tests a pilot’s reaction time, physical stamina and situational awareness. BFM is a coveted and timeless skillset, dating back to the first fighter pilots of World War I. There is no better way to build trust in a pilot’s aircraft or a pilot’s skills than to engage in a one on one BFM fight.”

In addition to providing an opportunity to test their skills in a unique setting, the exercise bolstered relationships and esprit de corps among Allies through the sharing of tactics, techniques and experiences – ultimately strengthening NATO’s collective resolve. Additionally, it allowed the U.S. and Allies to learn from one another and foster teamwork in a safe environment, enhancing communication and interoperability.

“This event provided a prime opportunity to hone our skills, and it made a fun experience to build cooperation and camaraderie amongst all the participants,” Lorringer said. “We are not just NATO Allies, but a community bound by genuine friendship and respect. I emphasize this point because successful military operations require exceptional teamwork, often critical to survival. And as a pilot, it boils down to trust. It’s crucial to trust your wingman.”

Further demonstrating the trust and teamwork demonstrated during Ramstein 1v1, U.S. Airmen from Lakenheath Air Base serviced Royal Norwegian Air Force F-35A Lightning II aircraft, a force multiplier for U.S. national security and NATO’s unified, collective defense, Loringer said.

At the core of the Global Gateway, 86th Airlift Wing personnel also provided installation support to ensure the exercise was a success.

“This exercise is about preparation and being ready to deploy and project our airpower throughout Europe and Africa at a moment’s notice,’ said Airman Basic Regis Dickerson II, 86th Logistic Readiness Squadron mobile distribution operator. “The stronger our trust and connections becomes, the stronger our capabilities become. When we join together as one this shows our adversaries what we are capable of.”

Members of the 86th Maintenance Group and 86th Logistics Readiness Group enabled flightline operations through various functions from marshaling aircraft to refueling aircraft and providing transportation for crews.

The 86th Operations Group and German counterparts also played a critical role in coordinating airspace, take-offs and landings during the initial arrival, exercise scenarios and final departure.

“As the Global Gateway, Ramstein is the cradle for this inaugural event and facilitates interoperability within the Alliance,” Loringer said. “From petroleum, oils and lubricants, to transient alert to the 86th Operational Support Squadron, Ramstein 1v1 was only possible with the combined efforts of the fantastic Ramstein team.”

8

u

WWW.MACDILLTHUNDERBOLT.COM u Thursday, June 20, 2024 u MACDILL THUNDERBOLT

MACDILL THUNDERBOLT u Thursday, June 20, 2024 u WWW.MACDILLTHUNDERBOLT.COM u 9

COMMUNITY

EVENTS

Juneteenth closures For a full list of 6th FSS program facilities, food and beverage, and recreational facility closures, visit macdillfss.com/juneteenthclosures2024/ ‘Stuck with your Ruck’ Run/ Walk Join the Short Fitness Center for “Stuck with your Ruck” on June 28 at 7 a.m., starting near Bayshore Gate. Ruck or walk to the Golf Course and back in your fitness attire, carrying a ruck with your chosen weight. Don’t forget water, sunscreen, and bug spray, and compete for prizes for the fastest female and male ruckers. For more information, visit macdillfss.com/wp-content/uploads/StuckwithRuck.pdf.

June base theater movies Your MacDill Base Library will be offering free movies at the Base Theater. Movies are open to anyone with base access to MacDill AFB. For a complete movie schedule, visit macdillfss.com/library/.

Auto Hobby Shop classes Learn to maintain your vehicle like a pro with MacDill Auto Hobby’s Wednesday classes. From mastering preventative maintenance to conquering oil changes and brake repairs, empower yourself with essential automotive skills to keep your ride running smoothly. For more information and to register, visit macdillfss.com/arts-andtrade-crafts/.

The Champ

Photo by Senior Airman Lauren Cobin

U.S. Air Force Col. Adam Bingham, 6th Air Refueling Wing commander, left, and Chief Master Sgt. Raun Howell, 6th ARW command chief, right, recognize Senior Airman Erika Redfearn, a contracting officer representative assigned to the 6th Medical Support Squadron, as Champion of the Week at MacDill Air Force Base June 4. Redfearn has successfully managed 35 personnel contracts worth $100 million, ensuring timely onboarding of new contractors and maintaining clinic operations to support base readiness.

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

Protestant services - Sunday - 11 a.m. Contact the Chapel at 828-3621 or email at 6ARW.HCADMIN@us.a.mil or inquiries regarding Protestant religious education.

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

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

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

www.macdill.af.mil/chapel

Catholic Mass - Sunday - 9:30 a.m.

(confessions by appointment)

Find more events at: macdillfss.com

10

u

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

WWW.MACDILLTHUNDERBOLT.COM u Thursday, June 20, 2024 u MACDILL THUNDERBOLT

RAMSTEIN From Page 3

“Sgt. First Class McElfresh was the obvious selection for this opportunity, after she was awarded 2023 Instructor of the Year at the 7th Army Noncommissioned Officer Academy,” said Master Sgt. Nathan Ryan, Ramstein ALS commandant. “The leadership of Ramstein ALS had long toyed with the idea of incorporating a joint instructor. When word of her dedication to excellence reached our schoolhouse, we knew that now was the time to execute this vision.”

Arriving at ALS in Kapaun Air Station, Germany, McElfresh found herself in uncharted territory. Amidst the unfamiliarity, McElfresh discovered a sense of purpose she hadn’t anticipated.

“I never imagined I’d end up teaching,” said McElfresh. “I was always the quiet one, not seeking the spotlight.”

Yet, as McElfresh settled into her new role, teaching ALS Class 24-4 from April 15 to May 16, 2024, she found fulfillment in guiding and inspiring the next generation of military leaders.

“Transitioning from combat to education wasn’t easy,” said McElfresh. “I had to navigate a new world of teaching and mentorship. Unlike the rigid structures I was used to, ALS fostered lively discussions and encouraged individual expression.”

Adapting to the Air Force classroom dynamics at the schoolhouse was one of McElfresh’s biggest adjustments. McElfresh found joy in this collaborative learning atmosphere, recognizing the value of exchanging ideas and active engagement in the learning process.

“Almost immediately, Sgt. 1st Class McElfresh became a part of the

family amongst our cadre,” said Master Sgt. Ryan, “Amongst the students, she brought an unparalleled outlook to one of the most crucial curriculum outcomes at Ramstein ALS: Joint Warfighting. With very little preparation time, she had no problem picking up an Air Force lesson plan and delivering it with nothing short of quality, resulting in countless praises from students long after graduation. Ramstein ALS is proud of her achievements and thankful for her contribution to the development of our Cadre and future Non Commissioned Officer’s.”

McElfresh’s dedication to her students shines through as she reflects on her time as an instructor. She hopes to inspire others to embrace change and pursue their passions with courage and conviction.

“I take pride in witnessing the growth and development of my students,” McElfresh said. “From instilling confidence to fostering critical thinking skills, it’s rewarding to see them flourish.”

As she leaves her current assignment she does so with a sense of fulfillment and accomplishment.

“Though my path may have been winding and unpredictable,” McElfresh said, “I remain committed to service and the pursuit of excellence.”

For McElfresh, the journey from Soldier to educator has been transformative. Switching from the operational to the front lines of the classroom, she has embraced the challenge with humility and dedication to leave a lasting impact on all those she encounters. Through her experiences, McElfresh has learned the resilience and adaptability that defines the military ethos.

MACDILL THUNDERBOLT u Thursday, June 20, 2024 u WWW.MACDILLTHUNDERBOLT.COM u 11

FITNESS From Page 2

her mom who passed from pancreatic cancer in 2018.

“It was humbling to watch my mom keep running every day, even while she was battling cancer,” Marsh said. “I kept thinking—what’s my excuse?”

For both Marsh and her mother, fitness is about more than looking good. To them, curating an active and healthy lifestyle allows you to live longer, to keep your heart healthy and to fight illness. It’s about starting where you are, giving yourself grace and working day-in and dayout to be your best.

For anyone looking to adopt a fitness-focused lifestyle, Marsh offers five pieces of advice: 1. Everyone starts somewhere. Even after years in the gym, Marsh still experiments with new exercises, machines and fitness goals. Everyone is learning, so, according to Marsh, there’s no reason to be selfconscious.

2. Every day is a new day. Did you miss one day in the gym? No problem. Did you forget to drink enough water? Don’t sweat it. “Today is a new day, and you can wake up and choose better habits!” Marsh said.

3. Nutrition is key. For years, Marsh dedicated herself to working out but saw no results because she didn’t prioritize what she put into her

12

u

body. She only noticed a real difference in how she felt—both in and out of the gym— after she focused on eating the right proteins and making intentional decisions at meals.

4. A fit lifestyle doesn’t just mean looking fit. Like her mother, Marsh views fitness as a path to health, not a means to changing your appearance. “The gym was so much more than just a look to my mom,” Marsh said. “It kept her sane and gave her better odds in her battle against cancer. That is the mentality I keep in my mind every time I work out.”

5. Consistency brings results. While on the road, Marsh has noticed that taking days off makes it difficult to jump back into a fitness routine. Even when her location or access to equipment limits what she can do, she still finds value in shorter or machine-less workouts. Time that she spends exercising in any way prepares her for harder days in large gyms, and everything—even the shorter workouts—help achieve her fitness goals.

For more details on Air Force fitness standards, visit the Air Force’s fitness guide. If you would like to serve alongside Marsh, visit airforce. com/missamerica to connect with a recruiter near you, or, if you would like to explore the Air Force’s most physically-demanding career fields, check out open jobs in Air Force Special Warfare.

WWW.MACDILLTHUNDERBOLT.COM u Thursday, June 20, 2024 u MACDILL THUNDERBOLT