Thunderbolt 07/21/2022

Vol. 50, No. 29

Thursday, July 21, 2022

MacDill Airmen rescue boaters - page 8

News/Features: page 3 Engineers remembered

News/Features: page 3 Former AF chief passes

Week in photos: page 4 Images from the week

Photo by Staff Sgt. Alexander Cook

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

U.S. marine patrolmen assigned to the 6th Security Forces Squadron operate a vessel during a routine patrol in Tampa Bay July 10. On June 12, marine patrolmen Airman 1st Class Samari Rivera-Rodriguez, Kade Jones, and Sabin Venable, along with Staff Sgt. William Au rescued eight victims who were stranded on top of a capsized vessel in Tampa Bay while on patrol. The 6th SFS Marine Patrol unit is the only fully operational, 24/7 unit in the Air Force, and is responsible for protecting one of the largest coastal restricted areas in the Department of Defense.

NEWS/FEATURES Help available for Airmen, Guardians to mitigate inflation impacts

by Tech. Sgt. Armando Schwier-Morales Secretary of the Air Force Public Affairs ARLINGTON, Va. (AFNS)—Assistance to reduce the impact of inflated costs on Airmen, Guardians and their families is available through four areas of effort.

Aiming to ease the burden of price hikes, the Department of the Air Force is assessing and enacting support across compensation, entitlements for permanent change of station/household goods moves, personal finance readiness and food insecurity aid.

“Our Airmen, Guardians and their loved ones fulfill critical national security roles on behalf of the nation,” said Secretary of the Air Force Frank Kendall. “Financial strain due to inflation can create stresses on our teammates, and it is our responsibility as leaders at all levels to do everything we can to use available programs and resources to provide relief, and where appropriate, advocate for additional measures.”

“Real-world events continue to drive up inflation — from the ongoing effects of COVID-19 on our global supply chains, to the economic and energy-related consequences of Russia’s brutal and unprovoked invasion of Ukraine. Unfortunately, the rising costs due to inflation have placed an increased burden on our service members and their families,” said Under Secretary of the Air Force Gina Ortiz Jones. “As we work to implement measures to mitigate those impacts, I encourage all Airmen See INFLATION, Page 6

U.S. Air Force Graphic by Rosario “Charo” Gutierrez

Aiming to ease the burden of price hikes, the Department of the Air Force is assessing and enacting support across compensation, entitlements for permanent change of station/household goods moves, personal finance readiness and food insecurity aid.

Be sure to visit the official 6th Air Refueling Wing website at www.macdill.af.mil COMMANDER’S ACTION LINE The Action Line provides two-way communication between the 6th Air Refueling Wing commander and the MacDill community. Personnel may submit questions, concerns or comments via email to macdillwingcommander@us.af.mil or Facebook @6thARWCommandTeam

MacDill Thunderbolt Publisher: Joe Deluca Editor: Nick Stubbs The MacDill Thunderbolt is published by the Times Publishing Company, a private firm in no way connected with the U.S. Air Force. This commercial enterprise newspaper is an authorized publication for distribution to members of the U.S. military services on MacDill. Contents of the MacDill Thunderbolt are not necessarily the official views of, or endorsed by the U.S. government, the Department of Defense,

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the Department of the Air Force or the 6th Air Refueling Wing.

The appearance of advertising in this publication, including inserts or supplements, does not constitute endorsement by the Department of Defense, the Department of the Air Force, 6th Air Refueling Wing or the Publishing Company of the products or service advertised.

For retail advertising, call (813) 226-3318.

Everything advertised in this publication shall be made available for purchase, use, or patronage without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, marital status, physical handicap, political affiliation or any other non-merit factor of the purchaser, user, or patron.

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MacDill on the web Website: www.macdill.af.mil Facebook: www.facebook.com/ MacDillAirForceBase Instagram: macdill_afb Twitter: @macdill_afb News items for the MacDill Thunderbolt can be submitted to the 6th Air Refueling Wing Public Affairs office, 8208 Hangar Loop Dr., suite 14, MacDill AFB, FL 33621. Call the Thunderbolt at 828-2215. Email: 6arw.pa.macdillthunderbolt@ us.af.mil.

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

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

NEWS/FEATURES

MacDill recognizes ‘forgotten’ service members of past

by Stephen Ove 6th Air Refueling Wing historian

Construction workers from the 6th Civil Engineer Squadron erected the final new roadside heritage markers around the installation June 24.

Envisioned as the capstone of a project to recognize underrepresented groups whose memory had become wholly forgotten, a team of U.S. Air Force personnel sought to restore their legacy.

“I have a great sense of pride knowing these historical markers will stand for years,” said Sandra Kobelia, 6th Force Support Squadron deputy director and historical marker site selection committee member. “This is long-overSee FORGOTTEN, Page 10

U.S. Air Force photo

U.S. Army Air Corps African American “Fighting Engineers” at MacDill Air Force Base are shown in a World War II-era photograph. These expeditionary service members built and sustained airfields needed to advance Allied airpower.

Air Force mourns loss of 6th chief master sergeant of the AF

by Secretary of the Air Force Public Affairs

WASHINGTON (AFNS)—The 6th Chief Master Sgt. of the Air Force, James M. McCoy, passed away July 13 at the age of 91.

In his 30-year career, McCoy was the first senior enlisted advisor of Strategic Air Command, served as chairman of two worldwide senior enlisted adviser conferences for the Air Force Association and was selected as one of the 12 Outstanding Airmen of the Year in 1974.

“When we talk about standing on the shoulders of giants, we are talking about Airmen like CMSAF McCoy,” said Chief Master Sgt. of the Air Force JoAnne S. Bass. “His passion for taking care of our Airmen was only exceeded by his humility. He was an icon of our great Air Force - and a hero to us all.”

As the 6th Chief Master Sergeant of the Air Force, McCoy set out to improve the enlisted retention rate that had dropped to as low as 25 percent in the late 1970s. He also created the Stripes for Exceptional Performers program and expanded professional military education options.

One of the unique aspects of McCoy’s career lay in his time at Noncommissioned Officer Leadership School, now Airman Leadership School, where he instructed the 5th Chief Master Sgt. of the Air Force and his friend Robert Gaylor.

U.S. Air Force graphic

A memorial graphic honoring the 6th Chief Master Sgt. of the Air Force, James M. McCoy, who passed away July 13 at the age of 91.

He also worked to introduce maternity uniforms for female Airmen, when prior, they would have to wear civilian clothes after a certain point in pregnancy.

See CHIEF, Page 12 MACDILL THUNDERBOLT

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WEEK IN PHOTOS U.S. Marine Corps Sgt. Maj. Delwin Ellington, incoming sergeant major of Marine Forces Central Command, receives the non-commissioned officer sword during a ceremony in Tampa, July 8.

The ceremony was held to appoint Sgt. Maj. Delwin Ellington as the new sergeant major of MARCENT.

Photo by Airman 1st Class Lauren Cobin

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Photo by Airman 1st Class Joshua Hastings

Photo by Tech. Sgt. Brad Tipton

U.S. Air Force Col. Benjamin Jonsson, 6th Air Refueling Wing (ARW) commander, passes the 6th Medical Group (MDG) guidon to the group’s newest commander, Col. Erich Schroeder, at MacDill Air Force Base, July 14. As commander of the 6th MDG, Schroeder will oversee administrative, logistical and ancillary medical support that serves the 6th ARW, U.S. Central Command, U.S. Special Operations Command and over 50 tenant units at MacDill.

Tech. Sgt. Tung B. Tran and Staff Sgt. Korey Hunt, 927th Aircraft Maintenance Squadron crew chiefs, replace landing gear brakes of a KC-135 Stratotanker aircraft on MacDill Air Force Base, July 9. The KC-135 provides in-air refueling in support of a wide variety of mission-sets.

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NEWS/FEATURES 927th SFS welcomes new Security Forces Squadron commander

by Staff Sgt. Alexis Suarez 927th Air Refueling Wing U.S. Air Force Lt. Col. Rafael Perea assumed command of the 927th Security Forces Squadron during an assumption of command ceremony at MacDill Air Force Base July 9.

As the commander, Perea takes on leadership of more than 90 defenders, including directing, planning and conducting operational training activities to satisfy wing and wartime readiness.

Also under his command is the combat arms training and maintenance, which supports all 927th Air Refueling Wing personnel.

The presiding officer of the ceremony, Col. Alan Tornay, 927th Mission Support Group commander, spoke about Perea after the presentation of the colors and the ceremony’s invocation.

“Perea has an incredible resume and performance in everything he’s done,” said Tornay.

“He was known to be a great leader and the go-to guy by his peers.”

Before arriving at MacDill, Perea commanded the 387th Expeditionary Security Forces Squadron at Ali Al Salem Air Base, Kuwait. He has served as a commander in various fields throughout his career.

“Every opportunity I’ve had between the military and my civilian career has led me where I’ve always wanted to be,” said Perea. “I am very proud to be a defender and that’s why I am looking forward to giving back.”

Parea served as an enlisted law enforcement specialist right out of basic training and a police officer in his civilian role. Having excelled in various leadership roles, Perea returns to his roots serving as the 927th SFS commander.

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Photo by Staff Sgt. Alexis Suarez

Col. Alan M. Tornay, 927th Mission Support Group commander, passes the guidon to Lt. Col. Rafael E. Perea as he assumes command of the 927th Security Forces Squadron during a ceremony July 09 in the base theater at MacDill Air Force Base.

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INFLATION From Page 2

and Guardians to look at the resources and programs available and see which ones can best help, as well as inform their chains of command who are there to help during times such as this.”

A large effort is being made by Airman & Family Readiness Centers to ensure Airmen and Guardians are not only educated but ready to meet current economic conditions. Airmen and Guardians can contact their local finance or A&FRC for more information. For a detailed breakdown of each area of effort, see below.

Compensation: n The Military Leaders Economic Security Toolkit, located on the Military OneSource website, offers information and support. The site is updated regularly to reflect challenges and policy changes related to economic security. n In 2022, Department of Defense Military Base Pay increased by 2.7%, basic housing allowance on average increased by 3.8% and basic substance allowance increased by 2.3 percent. n The DAF is working with the Office of the Secretary of Defense on the 14th Quadrennial Review of Military Compensation, a DoD commissioned review of compensation principles and concepts for members of the armed forces. n The DAF supports OSD’s initiative to mitigate the impact of Overseas Cost of Living Adjustment by decreasing rates at a slower pace — no more than a 2-point reduction per month. n For the 2023 BAH rate calculation effort, the DAF has opted into OSD’s one-year pilot program to accept local market rental data from the Military Housing Privatization Initiative Partners as an additional mechanism to increase sample size and help ensure correct rate-setting.

This data will be part of the 2022 BAH-rate setting cycle to calculate the 2023 BAH rate. n The White House and Congress have proposed a 4.6 percent pay raise for the military in 2023, the largest in nearly two decades.

Entitlements for PCS/Household Movements: n The Joint Travel Regulation allows for installations to request temporary lodging expense extensions to support on and off-base lodging, which allows Airmen and Guardians to receive their temporary living expense entitlements beyond the traditional 10 days as they await hous-

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ing following a PCS. Installations may request TLE extensions up to a total of 60 days. n As of July 1, the DoD adopted the Internal Revenue Service’s increase to the standard mileage rates to reflect on current rising fuel costs. The mileage rate for PCS travel increased from $0.18 to $0.22 per mile, and the mileage rate for TDY travel increased from $0.585 to $0.625 per mile. n The Joint Travel Regulation was updated with a new authority granting partial dislocation allowance for members directed to move out of government quarters, including single Airmen and Guardians moving out of dormitories. The purpose of the allowance is to partially reimburse a member for the expenses incurred in relocating the household. n Installation housing offices are assisting members as they PCS with potential housing challenges.

Personal Financial Readiness: n A&FRCs personal financial readiness program sustains and improves financial literacy and readiness by offering information, education, training, and free personal financial counseling to Airmen, Guardians, and their families. The DAF has also increased the number of Personal Financial Managers available to assist and enhance financial readiness and money management skills for members and their families. n The Air Force Aid Society continues to support emergent needs such as basic living expenses (e.g., food, rent/mortgage, utilities), vehicles (e.g., payments, repairs, insurance), and childcare costs. Airmen and Guardians can submit requests through A&FRCs. Food Insecurity: n First sergeants and A&FRCs assist Airmen, Guardians, and families in need of food security-related grants and loans with referrals to programs such as: U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, the Federal Subsistence Supplemental Allowance program, and the Air Force Aid Society. n The FY22 National Defense Authorization Act established a Basic Needs Allowance. The BNA provides supplemental income for military members and dependents whose gross household income falls below 130 percent of federal poverty guidelines. The DAF is participating in the OSD working group and will implement OSD guidance once published.

NEWS/FEATURES Military shoppers can double savings at the Exchange Back-to-school sales tax holidays offered

by Marisa Conner DALLAS—As families are making their back-to-school shopping lists and looking for ways to save, many states will be offering sales tax holidays. But since every day is a sales tax holiday at the Army & Air Force Exchange Service, military shoppers will enjoy a double bonus during their state’s tax holiday.

Exchanges will offer a discount equal to the local sales tax rate on back-to-school items during states’ tax holidays. Shoppers in states with a sales tax rate of 6%, for example, will receive 6% off their eligible Exchange purchases, in addition to not paying any sales tax.

Seventeen states are offering a sales tax holiday. Eligible back-to-school items vary by

state and may include school supplies, backpacks, clothing, footwear and computers.

“The Exchange’s tax holiday bonus savings lets military families enjoy the excitement of preparing for a new school year without the stress of breaking the budget,” said Air Force Chief Master Sgt. Kevin Osby, the Exchange’s senior enlisted advisor.

The tax holidays begin July 15-17 in Alabama and end Aug. 21-27 in Connecticut. Shoppers can check for their state’s participation, dates and eligible items at www.taxadmin. org/2022-sales-tax-holiday.

It matters where the military community shops. All of Exchange earnings are re-invested in the military community, including through support for on-installation Quality-of-Life programs. In the last 10 years, the Exchange has contributed $3.5 billion to these critical programs.

Courtesy graphic

See SAVINGS, Page 11

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MacDill Marine Patrol Airmen rescue eight from a capsized boat in Tampa Bay by 2nd Lt. Kristin Nielsen 6th Air Refueling Wing Public Affairs

H

ave you ever gone boating in Tampa Bay? A typical day on the bay includes clear water, hot sun and delicate waves sheltered by the surrounding land.

However, for eight civilians on a pontoon boat that embarked on the bay the morning of June 12, their experience was anything but calm. Luckily, the 6th Security Forces Squadron Marine Patrol Unit was there to help them when their typical day on the water turned into a nightmare at sea.

At around 11 a.m. on June 12, Staff Sgt. William Au, 6th SFS Marine Patrol crew lead, was sitting with his partner, Airman 1st Class Kade Jones, as they looked into the sparkling water surrounding MacDill.

From indoors, it seemed like a typical Tampa day. But despite the unassuming weather, there were immense waves due to a recent tropical storm.

The five-foot-high waves had led the U.S. Coast Guard to publish a “small craft advisory,” warning boaters of the increased dangers of wind and waves. Under this advisory, the MacDill marine patrol unit wouldn’t normally do their routine sweep, both for their safety and for the lack of boats in the water.

However, on this particular day, Au felt a feeling deep in his gut that told him he needed to get out in the bay. “We couldn’t even tell you what made us go out there,” said Au. “It was the weirdest thing. We just knew we had to go.”

This inexplicable urge led Au, joined by Jones, to load up their marine patrol boat and do a sweep of the waters surrounding MacDill.

Within a few moments of their sweep, the two Airmen locked eyes on a distant pontoon boat. The boat stood out to them for two reasons; first, it was the only boat on the water. Second, it was flipped completely upside down.

At that moment, the marine patrolmen switched into action, realizing that gut feeling had led them to the eight victims who were now stranded in the water. After assessing the scene, the Airmen immediately began their rescue mission, calling for backup as they pulled the victims out of the water.

Jones noticed a bull shark, believed to be 10-12 feet long, circling the capsized vessel. “They were clinging on to the wreckage,” said Au. “They were terrified.”

Airmen 1st Class Samari Rivera-Rodriguez and Savin Venable, 6th SFS marine patrolmen, were back on land when they heard the call over the radio. Within minutes, they were suited up and on their way to the sunken pontoon to assist in the rescue mission.

“It was really rough out,” said Rivera-Rodriguez. “The waves were so See RESCUE, Page 13

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Courtesy photo

U.S. Air Force Staff Sgt. William AU, 6th Security Forces Squadron Marine Patrol unit crew lead, recovers an upside down vessel while on rescue June 12 in Tampa Bay, Florida. Marine patrolmen Airman 1st Class Samari Rivera-Rodriguez, Kade Jones, and Sabin Venable, along with Staff Sgt. William Au, rescued eight victims who were stranded on top of a capsized vessel in Tampa Bay while on patrol. With help from the U.S. Coastguard and Hillsborough County Sherrif’s Office, they were able to safely recover the victims without injury.

Photo by Staff Sgt. Alexander Cook

U.S. Air Force Airman 1st Class Samari Rivera-Rodriguez, a marine patrolman assigned to the 6th Security Forces Squadron, scans the coastline surrounding MacDill Air Force Base July 10. On June 12, marine patrolmen Airman 1st Class Samari Rivera-Rodriguez, Kade Jones, and Sabin Venable, along with Staff Sgt. William Au rescued eight victims who were stranded on top of a capsized vessel in Tampa Bay while on patrol. The 6th SFS Marine Patrol unit is the only fully operational, 24/7 unit in the Air Force, and is responsible for protecting one of the largest coastal restricted areas in the Department of Defense.

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FORGOTTEN From Page 3

due recognition for the personnel that led the way for the later establishment of headquarters U.S. Central Command and U.S. Special Operations Command at MacDill.”

These early groups were forgotten about due to their marginalized status, brief tenure, or simply lost to the passage of time and are now showcased both as trailblazers in their day and the foundation of work still accomplished at the base.

These groups include the engineer aviation battalions, manned almost exclusively by African American service members and the Women’s Army Corps personnel who first began serving at MacDill in 1943 during World War II. The new heritage markers are located near the site of their once segregated facilities, what is today the MacDill Exchange Mall and Child Development Center 1, respectively.

Others include a WWII prisoner-of-war camp located near the base fitness center and the site of the first unified command at MacDill, U.S. Strike Command, at the 6th FSS Headquarters Building.

The efforts of African American service members during WWII are widely known through the Tuskegee Airmen but MacDill was once home to thousands of aviation engineers.

Known as MacDill’s “Fighting Engineers” these expeditionary service members built and sustained airfields needed to advance Allied airpower from the shores of the continental United States to Tokyo and Berlin by the end of WWII. What they didn’t learn about Agile Combat Employment at MacDill they learned in the heat of battle at places like Iwo Jima leaving behind bases and a legacy of American Global Reach in the process.

U.S. Air Force Master Sgt. Rickey Gray, 6th ARW flight safety noncommissioned officer, volunteered to research their history and develop the historical marker.

“I met a gentleman in the community who confirmed everything that I wrote about regarding the Black Troops area,” said Gray. “He had heard the stories from his grandfather. Having him confirm it made me feel good because that was the most difficult marker to research.”

Kobelia, who served with Gray on the site selection committee, was stunned by what he 10

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Photo by Stephen Ove

A plaque displaying a map of 12 roadside heritage marker locations greets visitors to the MacDill Community Park at MacDill Air Force Base, which also now includes a new history wall, historic aircraft and unit displays, where base personnel can learn more about these groups and all eras of base history at their own pace. produced.

“I had no idea there was a secondary area for Black service members,” said Kobelia. “There’s an entirely ‘lost history’ of what these patriots endured just so they could help the war effort.

I hope the designation of this area reminds people of those amazing contributions and I hope it starts more conversations.”

The historical markers are the conclusion of a 5-year project to disseminate historical information throughout the base.

A plaque displaying a map to all 12 marker locations greets visitors to the MacDill Community Park which also now includes a new history wall, historic aircraft and unit displays, where base personnel can learn more about these groups and all eras of base history at their own pace.

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Earlier this year, unveilings of the Aviation Engineers and Women’s Army Corps historical markers coincided with MacDill’s Black History Month and Women’s History Month observances.

“MacDill has a very long and storied history of African Americans and women service members serving among our ranks,” said U.S. Air Force Col. Benjamin Jonsson, 6th Air Refueling Wing commander. “And today, with these new historical markers, we are acknowledging the immense contributions of these barrierbreaking service members so others following in their footsteps can learn of their contributions to our nation. I want to thank the volunteers and the historical marker committee for their outstanding efforts to recognize these Americans.”

SAVINGS From Page 7

Social-media-friendly version: Military shoppers looking to save on back-toschool shopping can enjoy a double-discount during their states’ sales-tax holidays. Exchange stores in 17 states will offer additional savings equal to the local tax rate on eligible items. Read more:https:// wp.me/p9Q7PG-28D. Since 1895, the Army & Air Force Exchange Service (Exchange) has gone where Soldiers, Airmen, Guardians and their families go to improve the quality of their lives by providing valued goods and services at exclusive military pricing. The Exchange is the

54th-largest retailer in the United States. 100% of Exchange earnings support military communities.

In the last 10 years, your Exchange benefit has provided $3.5 billion in earn-

ings for critical military Quality-of-Life programs.

The Exchange is a nonappropriated fund entity of the Department of Defense and is directed by a Board of Directors.

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CHIEF From Page 3

“Chief McCoy left a legacy that highlights the instrumental role senior enlisted leaders have in our mission, both as executors and advisors,” said Air Force Chief of Staff Gen. CQ Brown, Jr. “Improving education, equality, and quality of life were hallmarks of his time in service that helped shape the force we have today, and his dedication to Airmen and families continued in his postretirement work with the Air Force Association and other civic organizations. I am grateful for his contributions to our service and am saddened to learn of his passing.”

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RESCUE From Page 8

tall it was hard to see where they were. The waves just kept coming up and down.”

When the second marine patrol unit arrived, they split the passengers between the two rescue boats in order to level out the weight distribution and avoid another sunken ship. In these moments, teamwork and clear communication were integral to a successful rescue mission.

“We didn’t have to worry about each other,” Rivera-Rodriguez continued. “Every patrolman handled the situation perfectly.”

“I didn’t have to look over my shoulder and worry if everyone was doing their part,” Venable agreed. “I trusted them.”

Within 15 minutes of securing the passengers, the Coast Guard and the Hillsborough County Sherriff’s Office arrived and everyone was safe. The civilians were transported to land as the marine patrol unit, working with the Coast Guard, began to clean up the wreckage.

“It’s tough to train for something like that,” said Au. “We conduct drills on how to pull people out of the water and onto the boat, but when it’s rough like that something as simple as holding the boat in one place is extremely difficult. But the Airmen killed it. Hours on the vessel, getting used to the ocean and its conditions and challenges prepared them for this.”

Photo by Staff Sgt. Alexander Cook

Marine Patrolmen assigned to the 6th Security Forces Squadron protect over seven miles of coastline surrounding MacDill Air Force Base July 10. On June 12, marine patrolmen Airman 1st Class Samari Rivera-Rodriguez, Kade Jones, and Sabin Venable, along with Staff Sgt. William Au, rescued eight victims who were stranded on top of a capsized vessel in Tampa Bay while on patrol. The 6th SFS Marine Patrol unit is the only fully operational, 24/7 unit in the Air Force, and is responsible for protecting one of the largest coastal restricted areas in the Department See RESCUE, Page 14 of Defense.

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

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RESCUE From Page 13

Photo by Staff Sgt. Alexander Cook

U.S. Air Force Airman 1st Class Sabin Venable, a marine patrolman assigned to the 6th Security Forces Squadron points out the rescue location on a Global Positioning System in Tampa Bay July 10. On June 12, marine patrolmen Airman 1st Class Samari Rivera-Rodriguez, Kade Jones, and Sabin Venable, along with Staff Sgt. William Au rescued eight victims who were stranded on top of a capsized vessel in Tampa Bay. When asked what the biggest takeaway from the rescue mission was, Au spoke about how proud he was of the marine patrolmen.

“My biggest takeaway after getting everyone home safe was how well the marine patrol Airmen did. These are young Airmen, barely 20 years old. Just watching them do their tasks while coordinating with other agencies, while simultaneously caring for the victims, showed how competent and well-trained they are.”

The teamwork and quick thinking between these four Airmen were crucial to securing the safety of the victims and the responders.

“It was a lucky, lucky day that Staff Sgt. Au and Airman 1st Class Jones went out there that morning,” said Ramirez-Rodriguez.

The 6th SFS Marine Patrol Unit is the only fully operational, Airmen manned, 24/7 unit in the U.S. Air Force, and is responsible for protecting one of the largest coastal restricted areas in the Department of Defense. Today, the 6th SFS marine patrolmen have become the standard across the Air Force, often training Airmen on temporary duty assignments to learn about the programs and procedures developed at MacDill.

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COMMUNITY

EVENTS

Macback to School Fair July 23 This year’s MacBack to School Information Fair is Saturday from 9:30 a.m. - noon. Join us at Hangar 5 for a morning filled with fun games for children and families. While you’re there, don’t forget to visit sponsor and resource agencies’ booths.

M&FRC Career Fair July 28 Grom 9 a.m. - 2 p.m. there will be a free Career Fair for active duty, Department of the Air Force employees, retirees, and spouses to promote and provide employment opportunities for the base community. All Dates at the Breakaway Events Center. Please contact: 6mss.employments@us.af. mil at 828-0145 MPF ID cards new phone system You can now call or text 796-5272 to get quick answers to your ID card questions. Open 8 a.m. – 3 p.m. Monday – Friday.

Looking for the perfect job?

The 6th FSS is seeking qualified candidates 16 years and older. All positions start at $15 an hour or above.

Ready to join our FSS family? Visit https://macdillfss.com/open jobs/ to see current job openings and apply today.

Find more events at: macdillfss.com

Lt. Dan Band jams at MacDill!

Photo by Airman 1st Class Lauren Cobin

Gary Sinise and the Lt. Dan Band preform at MacDill Air Force Base July 8. The exclusive concert featured food trucks, games, and a meet-and-greet with the band to honor MacDill personnel and their families. The bands mission is to uplift and celebrate defenders and their families on military bases at home and abroad.

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

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

Islamic Service - Friday 1 p.m. (space re-

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

served)

www.macdill.af.mil/chapel

Other Faith Groups - Please contact the

Catholic (in-person) - Saturday - 5:30 p.m.

Chapel at (813) 828-3621 or via email at 6ARW. HCADMIN@us.af.mil

Protestant services - Sunday - 11 a.m.

MacDill’s Chapel website is: https://www.macdill. af.mil/chapel

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

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

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