Thunderbolt 8/01/2024

Vol. 52, No. 30

Thursday, August 1, 2024

News/Features: page 3 Cadets tour MacDill

News/Features: page 3

Airmansavesalife

Week in photos: page 4 Images from the week Photo by Senior Airman Joshua Hastings

A U.S. Airman is hoisted into an MH-60T Jayhawk assigned to Coast Guard Air Station Clearwater, near MacDill Air Force Base July 22. Air Station Clearwater provided support for a water survival training exercise involving U.S. Air Force aircrew members assigned to multiple units. The training exercise was part of the Air Force’s Survival, Evasion, Resistance and Escape curriculum designed to prepare Airmen for escaping a downed aircraft in open water.

Be sure to visit the official 6th Air Refueling Wing website at www.macdill.af.mil Community: page 15 Events, Chapel, more...

NEWS/FEATURES

MacDill Air Force Base hosts Innovation Vendor Fair

by Senior Airman Michael Killian 6th Air Refueling Wing The 24th Rapid Deployment Squadron recently organized a vendor fair from July 1718 at MacDill Air Force Base, showcasing over 20 innovative government-contracted military equipment vendors. The two-day event highlighted cutting-edge technologies designed to enhance military effectiveness, agility, and efficiency.

The vendor fair featured a diverse array of equipment, including pop-up shelters, water purification systems, electrical towers, advanced batteries, sensitive compartmented information facility doors, and efficient shower and toilet units designed for rapid deployment.

Additionally, attendees had the opportunity to explore the latest in robotics and other stateof-the-art solutions aimed at streamlining operations in deployed locations.

“My team and I dedicated substantial effort to organizing this event,” said U.S. Air Force Master Sgt. Tommie Taylor, Superintendent of Charlie team at RDS. “One of the major challenges we faced was coordinating the logistics for each vendor and managing the tracking See VENDOR, Page 10

Photo by Senior Airman Michael Killian

Military and Civilian representatives are given a tour during a Deployment Cell innovation fair at MacDill Air Force Base July 17. Twenty-nine vendors participated in the event, showcasing innovative products designed to ensure rapid mobility in the field.

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 , 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

Civil Air Patrol Air Cadet Exchange program tours MacDill

by Airman 1st Class Sterling Sutton 6th Air Refueling Wing The 6th Air Refueling Wing led a tour for the cadets from the Netherlands, United Kingdom, Canada, Australia and New Zealand who were part of the Civil Air Patrol International Air Cadet Exchange program on July 15.

Airmen from across the 6th ARW invited cadets to tour a KC-135 Stratotanker on the flightline, learn how to patch holes with metal at the Fabrication Flight, discover new innovations at Bolt Cell and witnessed a military working dog in action with the 6th Security Forces Squadron.

“Participating in a cadet exchange program offers young leaders the invaluable opportunity to broaden their horizons, experience diverse cultures and build lifelong international friendships, all while developing essential skills and gaining a global perspective,” said U.S. Air Force Maj. Anthony Rios, 927th Maintenance Group executive officer.

This was the first cadet exchange program See CADETS Page 13

Photo by Senior Airman Sterling Sutton

An Australian civil air patrol cadet uses a drill during a demonstration at the 6th Maintenance Squadron fabrication flight at MacDill Air Force Base on July 15. The cadets participated in hands-on experiences building community relations and met with Airmen from across the 6th Air Refueling Wing.

One ‘strike’ saved a child’s life

by Senior Airman Sabrina Fuller-Judd 51st Fighter Wing OSAN AIR BASE, Republic of Korea–A burst of color painted the walls, with the distinct clattering sound of bowling balls knocking down white pins. A child quickly rushed over to his mother and nearby Senior Airman Malachi Ward, 51st Logistic Readiness Squadron fuels laboratory technician, the child’s face was lit with concern. The mother and Ward rushed to the scene, where the younger sibling appeared to be choking.

Ward was at the right place at the perfect time: Osan Air Base, Republic of Korea, March 26, 2024.

“We were bowling with a family that had three kids, and their oldest son came up to me and said that his brother was choking,” explained Ward, who performed the Heimlich maneuver and unlodged the obstruction in the child’s throat. “I didn’t second guess what I was doing. I was relieved that I was able to help avoid a dire situation.”

See SAVED Page 7

Photo by Senior Airman Sabrina Fuller-Judd

U.S. Air Force Senior Airman Malachi Ward, 51st Logistic Readiness Squadron fuels laboratory technician, poses for a photo for earning the title Mustang of the Week at Osan Air Base, Republic of Korea, July 23.

Ward was competing in a bowling game when he saved a child from choking on March 26.

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WEEK IN PHOTOS

Photo by Airman Monique Stober

Technology is put on display during a Deployment Cell innovation fair at MacDill Air Force Base July 17. Twenty-nine vendors participated in the event, showcasing innovative products designed to ensure rapid mobility in the field.

U.S. Air Force photo

Photo by Tech. Sgt. Joshua Smoot

U.S. Air Force Lt. Gen. Derek France, Ninth Air Force (Air Forces Central) commander, middle, navigates the installation with 379th Expeditionary Civil Engineer Squadron leaders at an undisclosed location within the U.S. Central Command area of responsibility, July 25, 2024. This was France’s first immersion with CENTCOM’s largest AEW.

An A-10 Thunderbolt II pilot assigned to the 107th Expeditionary Fighter Squadron deployed from Michigan’s Selfridge Air National Guard Base performs a pre-flight check at an undisclosed location within the U.S. Central Command area of responsibility during Exercise Sky Shield 9, July 14.

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NEWS/FEATURES 325th MXG showcases ACE

by Senior Airman Zachary Nordheim 325th Fighter Wing Airmen from the 325th Maintenance Group alongside various units from across the 325th Fighter Wing employed the Agile Combat Employment concept to raise wing-level readiness during exercise Crown Royal 24-5, July 15-19.

They showcased their ability to dominate air power by generating, launching and regenerating combat-ready aircraft with minimal equipment and crew in this deployment aircraft generation exercise.

“I’ve worked in different areas where we’ve utilized the Multi-Capable Airmen concept where everyone learns the gist of each other’s career fields, but this exercise has been eye opening having never participated in something like this before,” said Master Sgt. Cory Kramer, 95th Fighter Generation Squadron F-35 production superintendent. “The key learning points we’re going after is finding problems, so we can get them corrected now versus when we’re down range in a real-world fight.”

During this exercise, a 20-man team, including crew chiefs, specialSee 325th, Page 11

Photo by Senior Airman Zachary Nordheim

From left, U.S. Air Force Master Sgt. Dez Watson, 95th Fighter Generation Squadron tactical aircraft maintenance specialist section chief, observes Staff Sgt. Garrett Wilderness, 95th FGS F-35 dedicated crew chief, and Senior Airman Danielle Capraun, 325th Maintenance Squadron aerospace ground journeyman, conduct a post-flight inspection on an F-35A Lightning II in a simulated contingency location at Tyndall Air Force Base, Florida, July 17.

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NEWS/FEATURES Warrant officer instructors graduate TAC Certification Course

by Senior Airman Evan Porter Air University Public Affairs MAXWELL AIR FORCE BASE, Ala –The U.S. Army Warrant Officer Career College held a graduation ceremony of its Train, Advise, and Counsel Officer Certification Course in Ozark, Alabama, July 19.

Among the graduates were four members of the U.S. Air Force, marking the first time Air Force personnel received the TAC Certification from the Army.

This significant achievement supports the evolving nature of military training and the growing importance of joint operations in an era characterized by great power competition.

The graduation ceremony, held at the Holman House in Ozark, Alabama, was a historical milestone. U.S. Army Col. Kevin McHugh, the commandant of USAWOCC, highlighted the unique nature of this graduation.

“Today is a special occasion based on its own merits, as we recognize the hard work and dedication of those aspiring to serve in new and challenging roles as training, advising, and counseling officers tasked with the development of junior officers and leaders,” he said.

“With today’s graduation, we acknowledge this partnership formed to assist in the successful implementation of the Air Force Warrant Officer commissioning program, not seen for over 60 years.”

For the Air Force, this collaboration represents a strategic shift in training and leadership development. The Airmen chosen for the Warrant Officer Training School, based at Maxwell Air Force Base, Alabama, included Master Sgt. Vernon Boyd, Master Sgt. Ryan Lawrence, Master Sgt. David Elliott and Senior Master Sgt. Kayleigh McAviney. Their certification as TAC officers is poised to influence the future of the Air Force’s new Warrant Officer Program.

The path to this achievement required each Airman to adapt to an Army training environment with its distinct traditions and protocols.

“Attending an Army training course for the first time presented unique challenges, such as translating Army-specific language, acronyms, 6

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Photo by Senior Airman Evan Porter

Graduates of class 24-501 stand at attention during a graduation ceremony at the Holman House in Ozark, Alabama, July 19. With the U.S Air Force launching the new Warrant Officer Corps career path, Class 24-501 is the first TAC Officer Certification Course class to have Airman amongst its graduates. and processes, which were different from what we use in the Air Force,” said Elliott. “I overcame these challenges by creating a personal glossary of terms and frequently consulting my instructor and my Army classmates.”

The knowledge and skills acquired by these Airmen are set to revolutionize the curriculum at the new Air Force Warrant Officer School.

“We plan to extract some processes and formalities under their ‘Candidate Led Strategy’ model in an effort to refine our own similar concept,” said McAviney. “The intention of this concept is to allow candidates to hold leadership positions within the course, giving them the opportunity to utilize their enhanced communication and advising skill sets, while building upon their leadership and followership foundations.”

This approach is expected to enhance the development of Air Force Warrant Officers, preparing them to meet the demands of modern

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military operations. The TAC Course’s focus on coaching, mentoring and candidate-led strategies will be crucial in shaping the next generation of Air Force leaders.

In the context of great power competition, the role of warrant officers is more critical than ever.

“I expect graduates from Air Force Warrant Officer School will be equipped to provide commanders with high-caliber advisors,” said Elliott. “We are receiving highly competent, driven, subject-matter experts, and giving them eight weeks of deliberate training. They will graduate and show up to commanders eager to show them the value warrant officers will provide” The collaborative nature of this training also enriched their perspectives on joint operations.

See TAC, Page 12

SAVED From Page 3

A new father himself, Ward related to the family as a father of a 3-month-old son waiting for him in Florida.

“Now that I am a dad myself, I would hope someone else could help in the same way if it were my child,” remarked Ward. “I feel like everyone should have the basic medical knowledge. We train in Tactical Combat Casualty Care and Red Cross classes: it seems repetitive but when you are in that situation, you have to understand how to use those skills effectively.”

Ward’s passion for fitness and outdoor activities led to his interest in being a physical training leader. His skills were originally used to assist his shop with staying in shape. Now, his PTL training gave him the competence to resolve the situation quickly. He believes every service member should continuously practice Cardiopulmonary resuscitation, TCCC, and first aid skills.

“Seeing where having proper training has led me is humbling,” said Ward. “It’s shown me that one action can make a deeper impact regardless of what you think.”

His pursuit of personal and professional development motivates Ward to excel at bowling and as a fuel laboratory technician, where he focuses on loading an aircraft with safe fuel quality for the 51st Fighter Wing mission.

“The days are hard, long, and tedious, I’ve seen some cool aircraft that I normally would not get to see,” said Ward, a participant of the Osan AB intramural bowling team. “Going out and bowling is a nice break from just being in my mind, and it’s not overly competitive.”

Ward was recognized as Mustang of the Week on July 26, 2024, for his life-saving deed and humility. He adds that his wife and family are especially proud of him, and are impressed by his efforts every day.

“They were all proud of me for what I did,” Ward said happily. “They’ve been proud of me for just putting this uniform on in the morning and coming to work.”

As a father in the U.S. Air Force, he reflected on his own experiences so far, providing words of wisdom to his son.

“Do what interests you, regardless of the

Photo by Senior Airman Sabrina Fuller-Judd

U.S. Air Force Senior Airman Malachi Ward, 51st Logistic Readiness Squadron fuels laboratory technician, poses for a photo for earning the title Mustang of the Week at Osan Air Base, Republic of Korea, July 23. opinion of others,” echoed Ward. “Because not everyone is going to support your choice, but what makes you happy is what will further your enrichment in life.”

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SERE specialists changed face of water survival prep story and photos by Airman 1st Class Alicia Campbell 6th Air Refueling Wing

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cean water fills the vessel as crew members chuck water from their tether to life, a 20-person life raft. Another member steadfastly refills the escaping air that keeps their raft afloat. These activities are just a couple of measures taken to ensure the survival of Airmen in the event of a downed aircraft over a large body of water.

During a simulation of an in-flight emergency, pilots and aircrew stationed at MacDill Air Force Base perform life-saving techniques in preparation for potential long-term survival and isolation over open water.

Water Survival Preparation at MacDill consists of two segments, academic instruction reviewing concepts such as open water recovery and raft-living procedures, and a live simulation to apply those concepts. All pilots and aircrew are required to complete this course every 48 months, and this year, participants are in for a fun surprise.

Given the charge of making this training as realistic and safe as possible, two Survival, Evasion, Resistance, and Escape (SERE) specialists set out to transform the way MacDill prepares pilots and aircrew for in-flight water emergencies. For Tech. Sgt. Jeremy Haskins and Staff Sgt. Matthew Montour, SERE specialists with the 6th Operations Support Squadron and instructors of the Water Survival Preparation course, this meant moving into a season of growth, both personally and professionally.

Montour and Haskins had a framework for creating this new and engaging course, but they knew they needed the help of the community to bring this immersive experience to life.

“The big challenge was recognizing what assets we have in play, at least here and near MacDill, and how we can utilize and incorporate them into our water survival preparation course,” said Montour. “The next big step was getting all of those unique and capable assets to be able to assist us in this process.”

The new scenario allows participants to practice a truer version of what they may encounter. Rather than swimming out 50 yards into the water, participants will board a Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office (HCSO) marine vessel and be carried to the middle of the bay, approximately 1200 yards, where they will disembark, swim into a life raft, and simulate raft-living procedures. To close out the experience, the Coast Guard will “rescue” the team via helicopter hoist (an outcome more likely to occur on the open waters). Montour and Haskins believe these changes will provide a more impactful experience for both pilots and aircrew.

To facilitate the type of program that effectively prepares pilots and aircrew for emergencies, Montour and Haskins needed to be certified to address certain situations while in the training environment.

Soon, they would attend the Navy’s Surface Rescue Swimmer School (SRSS), a demanding 26-day course that tests physical aptitude and mental acuity, all while equipping participants with the skills to recover and assist personnel during emergency situations.

Physically and mentally demanding programs were nothing new for Haskins and Montour, but this program added a few layers of pressure that made the process something to remember. For one, SRSS is a grueling program with a high attrition rate but being the first Airmen to attend made them keenly aware that they were representing all the U.S. Air Force and setting the standard for all who followed. Like a house of cards, one false move could have the entire overhauled water survival preparation course crumbling, or at the very least, delayed.

As if that weren’t enough, during the training, Montour experienced an episode of illness which could have meant the end of his training and no certification.

See SERE, Page 16

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U.S. Air Force Airmen drag a life raft on shore during a wa exercise was part of the Air Force’s Survival, Evasion, Res downed aircraft in open water.

Photo by Airman 1st Class Alicia Campbell

U.S. Air Force Tech. Sgt. Jeremy Haskins, a Survival, Evasion, Resistance and Escape specialist assigned to the 6th Operations Support Squadron, simulates an emergency call during a water survival course at MacDill Air Force Base June 28. SERE specialists provide direct support to personnel recovery programs through preparation, planning, execution and adaptation.

Photo by Airman 1st Class Alicia Campbell

Photo by Airman 1st Class Alicia Campbell

ater survival training exercise at MacDill Air Force Base June 28. The training sistance and Escape curriculum designed to prepare Airmen for escaping a

U.S. Air Force Staff Sgt. Matthew Montour, a Survival, Evasion, Resistance and Escape specialist assigned to the 6th Operations Support Squadron, briefs aircrew members on water survival tactics at MacDill Air Force Base June, 28. Air Force pilots and other aircrew members are required to enroll in SERE courses to prepare them for in-flight emergencies.

VENDOR From Page 2

and receipt of equipment from multiple sources. It is gratifying that the event has successfully concluded, knowing that we provided an opportunity for everyone to explore and access the latest innovations.”

The showcased equipment is expected to empower the next generation of military personnel to explore creative ways to achieve more with fewer resources. By integrating these technologies, the military can operate with increased agility and speed without sacrificing efficiency.

“We’re talking about at least $20 million worth of equipment here.” said U.S. Air Force Technical. Sgt. Kyle Dover, Section Chief assigned to RDS. “Just one single trailer worth almost a million dollars out there can power at least two of our camps by itself.”

As the military continues to prioritize agile combat employment, the ability to operate from dispersed forward locations in concert with allies and partners becomes increasingly vital. These demonstrations reveal not only the adaptability of MacDill Airmen, but also the versatile and multipurpose usage of the showcased equipment in various environments.

Visitors to the event left with a greater understanding of the innovative technologies available and a renewed sense of the possibilities for enhancing military operations. The RDS vendor fair stands as a testament to the power of innovation and the importance of fostering partnerships to drive military success in the 21st century.

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Photo by Senior Airman Michael Killian

A Civilian Contractor gives a presentation during a Deployment Cell innovation fair at MacDill Air Force Base, July 17. Twenty-nine vendors participated in the event, showcasing innovative products designed to ensure rapid mobility in the field.

Photo by Airman Monique Stober

Gas canisters are put on display during a Deployment Cell innovation fair at MacDill Air Force Base July 17.

Twenty-nine vendors participated in the event, showcasing innovative products designed to ensure rapid mobility in the field.

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325TH From Page 5

ists, security forces, weapons load crews and troops from low observable, fuels, aerospace ground equipment flights, used their skills and put them to the test.

Prior to this wing exercise, these members participated in a two-week course that covered the core concepts of what ACE means, what the importance of it is and practiced elements of ACE while building comradery within the team. The exercise served as an end-of-course capstone to put members knowledge to the test.

“One thing that I was pleasantly surprised by was everybody’s eagerness to learn and be involved in other jobs to make the exercise happen,” said Staff Sgt. Garrett Wilderness, 95th FGS F-35 dedicated crew chief. “There was very high morale and people enjoyed what we were doing, even if it was hot one day or rainy the next.”

Exercise CR 24-5 involved four F-35A Lightning II aircrafts operating out of two simulated sites: a Forward Operating Site at Dannelly Field Montgomery, Alabama, and a Contingency Location at Tyndall. These locations are meant to replicate operating in a deployed or austere environment while continuing to support the mission.

“Being downrange, life happens,” said Kramer. “You don’t know if someone is going to get sick, injured or have a family emergency and need to be sent home. So, the thought is if someone drops out of your small team, you need someone to fill that role whether that’s their job or not.”

Photo by Senior Airman Zachary Nordheim

U.S. Air Force Senior Airman Cody Wells, 95th Fighter Generation Squadron weapons load crew member, maneuvers a GBU-31 version 1 bomb to be loaded on to an F-35A Lightning II in a simulated contingency location at Tyndall Air Force Base, Florida, July 17. Prior to exercise Crown Royal 24-5, exercise participants completed a two-week course learning and practicing the core concepts of Agile Combat Employment while building comradery amongst Airmen from multiple career fields.

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TAC

From Page 6

“Training alongside our Army counterparts was essential to understanding the basics of nomenclature and overarching corps principles,” said McAviney. “But the greatest benefit came from understanding the intricacies of how the Army and each specialty utilizes their warrant officers.”

The certification of these four Airmen as TAC Officers is not just a personal achievement, but a significant milestone for the Air Force and the broader military community. Chief Master Sgt. Stefan Blazier, Air University command chief, acknowledged the historical significance of this event with regard to shaping the future of Air Force leadership by welcoming the instructors into their new role.

“These Airmen will be professional warfighters. They’re going to be credible advisers. They’re going to be technical integrators,” he said. “They’re going to be plank holders for our Warrant Officer Training School, which is about to take a first step in the journey to take us to new heights and test new limits. Our first sworn officers will primarily be established in our cyber and IT communities, but they will open doors for other specialties to pursue pathways that embrace technical depth over breath as warrant officers.”

As the Air Force continues to adapt to the evolving demands of global military operations, the integration of joint-service methodologies and training approach will play a crucial role in developing competent and confident warrant officers. The achievements of these four Airmen pave the way for future collaborations and innovations in military training, ensuring that the next generation of leaders is well-equipped to face any challenge that arises.

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CADETS From Page 3

event held since Covid-19, marking a significant step toward restoring normalcy and fostering international camaraderie.

“These events allow cadets to once again benefit from cross-cultural experiences, leadership development, allowing the cadets to exchange ideas, strengthening global bonds in a postpandemic world,” said Rios.

Cadets were briefed by representatives from different countries, providing them with unique insights into diverse military traditions, strategic perspectives and cultural practices.

“It was important for me, as a Canadian officer, to talk to the cadets because sharing our experiences and perspectives helps to build mutual understanding and respect,” said Canadian Armed Forces Lt. Col. Pat Cantin, Canadian Special Operations Forces Command Liaison Officer.

“By discussing my career, military practices, and leadership principles, I aim to inspire and prepare the next generation of leaders for effective collaboration in an increasingly interconnected world.”

The Civil Air Patrol International Air Cadet Exchange is an annual twoweek exchange program designed to promote cadets of character, and participation among the world’s civilian auxiliary aviation programs. MacDill AFB is committed to providing outreach opportunities to foster community relationships.

Photo by Senior Airman Sterling Sutton

(Above) Canadian Armed Forces Lt. Col. Pat Cantin, Canadian Special Operations Forces Command liaison officer speaks to Canadian cadets at MacDill Air Force Base July 15. The cadets participated in handson experiences and met with Airmen from across the 6th Air Refueling Wing.

(Left) An international civil air cadet is seen taking photos in the boom pod on a KC135 Stratotanker during a tour at MacDill Air Force Base on July 15. The cadets participated in hands-on experiences building community relations and met with Airmen from across the 6th Air Refueling Wing.

Photo by Senior Airman Sterling Sutton

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COMMUNITY

EVENTS

Hangar 6 extended hours MacDill Lanes & Family Fun Center, along with Hangar 6 Grill, now have extended hours for even more fun. Join the fun Tuesday through Saturday from 11 a.m. – 9 p.m., and Sunday from 12– 7 p.m. Come for the bowling, stay for the delicious food.

Visit macdillfss.com/hangar-6-grill/ and macdillfss.com/macdill-lanesbowling/ for more details.

August 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/.

Family Fun Night Join the fun at MacDill Lanes & Family Fun Center for “Kids Night” Family Fun Night Aug. 9 from 5– 9 p.m. Enjoy a DJ, cosmic bowling, and goody bags (while supplies last).

Don’t miss the $7.95 South of the Border Kids Buffet (12 and under), $2 games, and affordable shoe rentals: $3 for adults and $2 for kids.

Visit macdillfss.com/wp-content/uploads/AugKidsNight.pdf for more information.

Kinderspot Did you know that Kinderspot is available on MacDill AFB? Offer up and rent short-term childcare in weekly segments at the Child Development Centers. Kinderspot aims to support active duty, reservists and DoD civilian families with their childcare needs when they are on temporary duty assignments, leave, relocating to a new base or being called in for reserve duty. Learn more at carewecanshare.com.

SERE training

Photo by Senior Airman Joshua Hastings

A Hillsborough County sheriff’s deputy operates a law enforcement and rescue vessel near MacDill Air Force Base July 22. The Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office provided support for a water survival training exercise involving U.S. Air Force aircrew members assigned to multiple units. The training exercise was part of the Air Force’s Survival, Evasion, Resistance and Escape curriculum designed to prepare Airmen for escaping a downed aircraft in open water.

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 Chapel 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, August 1, 2024 u WWW.MACDILLTHUNDERBOLT.COM u 15

SERE

From Page 8

“[The] reality set in that the next couple hours or days were about to get a whole lot worse. I woke up at 0130 and thought, ‘This isn’t good. PT is at 0600, I’m not going to get any more sleep, and my body is actively rejecting food and water,’” said Montour.

“I prayed first, called Haskins at 0540 for a pep talk, armed myself with a hotel trash can, extra clothes in my pack, and the will to survive. I knew that if I didn’t show up for PT, or if I didn’t perform well enough, I would get pulled. I also knew that if I voluntarily went to sick call or the ER during training hours, I would get pulled,” he added.

“In all honesty though, remembering why I was there was critical; I am here for the betterment and safety of others, so what’s a little momentary discomfort?”

Unable to keep anything down, Montour powered through a grueling PT session to get the credit he needed to move forward, and he capped off his evening with a trip to the emergency room.

“The following day we had our final eval which I passed, and then went to the ER that evening too,” he said. His perseverance was a testament to the tremendous responsibility he felt in being one of the first from the Air Force to attend.

Although SRSS is a demanding program, Haskins notes its importance for SERE Specialists. “Currently, the standard for SERE Specialists is to be lifeguard certified.”

“We are advocating for other SERE programs across the force to go to the Navy Surface Rescue Swimmer School so they can have those skills

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and be as safe as they can and lower the risk to the force in that high-risk training event that they conduct and are responsible for.”

Although the grueling water training program and an illness stood as obstacles on their path to a reimagined water survival preparation course, Haskins and Montour are thankful for the experiences and opportunities this journey has afforded.

“We’ve gotten to work with other agencies that I’ve never worked with before, for instance the Hillsborough County Sheriff ’s Office,” said Haskins. “That’s been a huge breadth of knowledge and also opens up a lot more resources for us to tap into.”

Haskins discussed how this experience has also influenced him personally, “[it’s] also been broadening for me to get out of my comfort zone and be able to interact with civilians and other counterparts in a way that is applicable to the preparation we already perform here at MacDill AFB.” Both Montour and Haskins received special recognition for their efforts in revitalizing the water survival preparation course. Major General Corey J. Martin, the 18th Air Force Commander, gifted them with the 18th AF coins and personal letters celebrating this achievement.

“It’s been a blessing seeing this process change within the last year,” said Montour. “It was a lot of legwork, about nine months of planning and preparation from the SERE shop.”

“We hope to set a precedent and a way forward for the rest of our program in the hope that other units, and other SERE specialists across AMC and across the Force can implement some of these skills as well.”

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