Thunderbolt 8/08/2024

Vol. 52, No. 31

Thursday, August 8, 2024

News/Features: page 3 Space Force visit

News/Features: page 3 Verticaltakeoffcrafttested

Week in photos: page 4 Images from the week Photo by Airman Monique Stober

U.S. Air Force Col. Adam Bingham, commander of the 6th Air Refueling Wing, left, and Chief Master Sgt. Raun Howell, 6th ARW command chief, right, recognize aircrew members assigned to the 50th Air Refueling Squadron at MacDill Air Force Base June 26. Maj. Alex Grayson, Capt. John Squatrito and Senior Airman Ellis Fiscus are part of the six air crew members who will be receiving the Distinguished Flying Cross for their heroism while participating in aerial flight engaged in military operations involving conflict.

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

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

NEWS/FEATURES

Air commando helps bring closure to POW/MIA families

by Staff Sgt. Kevin Williams 27th Special Operations Wing “You are not forgotten.”

Those are the words inscribed on the Prisoner of War/Missing in Action (POW/MIA) flag-the only flag to ever fly alongside the Stars and Stripes at the White House.

Those words convey America’s promise to service members who have become prisoners of war or have gone missing in action, and to the families left behind.

The Defense POW/MIA Accounting Agency (DPAA) is the Department of Defense organization charged with fulfilling that promise by providing the fullest possible accounting for America’s missing personnel, both to their families and the nation. Due to the unique demands of its mission, DPAA tasks joint volunteer teams from a variety of military services and specialties, including explosive ordnance disposal (EOD).

In 2023, U.S. Air Force Tech. Sgt. Robert Hile, an EOD team leader assigned to the 27th Special Operations Civil Engineering Squadron at Cannon AFB, spent six weeks on a DPAA mission to Laos People’s Democratic Republic (Laos PDR)to recover the remains of two Air Force piSee CLOSURE, Page 12

Photo by Staff Sgt. Ariel Owings

U.S. Marine Corps 1st Lt. Cole Euverard, Defense POW/MIA Accounting Agency (DPAA) Team Lead, and a Lao worker dry-screen together during a recovery mission in Laos People’s Democratic Republic (Laos PDR), March 10, 2023. Missions can employ up to 100 local workers to expedite the process, working with the team to dry and wet screen as well as provide structures built with the resources that grow in the surrounding area. There are currently 276 missing Americans from the Vietnam War whose remains are believed to be in Laos PDR.

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, August 8, 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

Space Force astronaut meets with launch-supporting service members

by Airman 1st Class Spencer Contreras Space Launch Delta 45 PATRICK SPACE FORCE BASE, Fla.— U.S. Space Force Col. Nick Hague and his crewmates from the NASA SpaceX Crew-9 mission met with Airmen and Guardians at the Sands Space History Center outside of Cape Canaveral Space Force Station, Florida, on July 23. The Crew-9 mission is scheduled to launch from NASA’s Kennedy Space Center to the International Space Station later this year.

Hague and the rest of the crew, Commander Zena Cardman, Mission Specialist Stephanie Wilson and Roscomos cosmonaut Mission Specialist Aleksandr Gorbunov, attended an event at the Sands to speak with and give thanks to representatives of military units who make manned spaceflight missions possible.

While Crew-9 is a NASA mission, Hague recognized that it would not be possible without the support of military units from Patrick Space Force Base and CCSFS. “I can’t overstate how crucial the Airmen and Guardians of Space Launch Delta 45 are See SPACE Page 10

Photo by Airman 1st Class Spencer Contreras

NASA SpaceX Crew-9 mission crew members address service members from Space Launch Delta 45 during an event at the Sands Space History Center at Cape Canaveral Space Force Station, Florida, July 23. The Crew-9 mission would be the first time a rocket would launch with a U.S. Space Force Guardian aboard.

AFWERX, MTSI evaluate vertical takeoff and landing aircraft

by Matthew C Clouse Air Force Research Laboratory SPRINGFIELD, Ohio (AFRL)—As the sun rose over SpringfieldBeckley Airport, Ohio, a quiet hum from an unusual aircraft signaled the start of another day of flight testing.

Since mid-June, experts from AFWERX, the Department of the Air Force’s innovation arm within the Air Force Research Laboratory, have been working with Beavercreek, Ohio-based defense contractor Modern Technology Solutions Inc., or MTSI, to evaluate Pivotal’s BlackFly electric vertical take-off and landing, or eVTOL, aircraft, along with other electric aircraft. This effort is part of the AFWERX Agility Prime program, which focuses on assessing the aircraft and their supporting ecosystem through an operational leasing initiative.

“We’re not just interested in the aircraft’s flying capabilities,” said Josh Lane, AFWERX flight test engineer. “We’re also looking at the infrastructure, including electric charging systems like the DANNAR battery enSee AFWERX Page 13

Photo by Matthew Clouse

Experts from AFWERX, the Department of the Air Force’s innovation arm within the Air Force Research Laboratory, and Beavercreek, Ohiobased defense contractor Modern Technology Solutions Inc. observe a Pivotal BlackFly electric vertical take-off and landing aircraft test flight at Springfield-Beckley Airport, Ohio, July 12.

MACDILL THUNDERBOLT u Thursday, August 8, 2024 u WWW.MACDILLTHUNDERBOLT.COM u 3

WEEK IN PHOTOS

Photo by Staff Sgt. Lauren Cobin

U.S. Air Force Col. Adam Bingham, 6th Air Refueling Wing commander, observes aerial refueling during his fini flight over the southeastern United States July 23. The final flight, or fini flight, is a tradition among pilots and aircrew to celebrate one’s last flight with their unit or on a certain airframe.

Courtesy photo

U.S. Air Force Col. Edward Szczepanik, 6th Air Refueling Wing deputy commander, left, and Chief Master Sgt. Raun Howell, 6th ARW command chief, far right, pose for a photo with Senior Airman Jared Phillip De La Cruz, 6th Aircraft Maintenance Squadron heavy aircraft integrated avionics journeyman, during a Champion of the Week recognition at MacDill Air Force Base July 9. De La Cruz instructed 16 of his peers during a career field merger, organized a spiritual resiliency day for his unit and consistently exceeds expectations within his workplace.

4

u

Courtesy photo

Members of the 379th Air Expeditionary Wing Sexual Assault Prevention and Response office paint handprints at an undisclosed location within the U.S. Central Command area of responsibility, July 26. The color teal symbolizes sexual assault awareness, prevention and support. Decorating the hallways with teal conveys support, empathy, and hope for survivors, while also raising awareness and promoting prevention efforts.

WWW.MACDILLTHUNDERBOLT.COM u Thursday, August 8, 2024 u MACDILL THUNDERBOLT

NEWS/FEATURES Identical twins serve together

by Scott Curtis Southeast Regional Maintenance Center (SERMC) MAYPORT, Fla.—Sailors at Southeast Regional Maintenance Center (SERMC) thought they were seeing double.

Identical twins Gas Turbine Systems Technician (Mechanical) 1st Class Guokang Xie, and Gas Turbine Systems Technician (Electrical) 1st Class Guojian Xie, originally from Queens, New York, wanted the op-portunity to serve their country and learn a great trade together, so they decided to join the Navy in 2018.

“Before we enlisted, we were both interested in the GS (Gas Turbine Systems Technician) rate, and along the way we discovered that in order to make a senior chief you have to know both the mechanical and electri-cal side. So I picked mechanical, and Guojian picked electrical, and we thought if someday we have a chance to make senior chief, we can help each other,” said Guokang.

“We went to boot camp a week apart, Guojian said. “We heard that if you’re family, you won’t be stationed on the same ship, but we didn’t know if that started in boot camp or after you actually got into the Fleet.”

Prior to November 1942, the U.S. military allowed twins and brothers See TWINS, Page 11

Courtesy photo

Gas Turbine Systems Technician (Mechanical) 1st Class Guokang Xie, left, and Gas Turbine Systems Technician (Electrical) 1st Class Guojian Xie pose during a break at Southeast Regional Maintenance Center (SERMC) in Mayport, Fla. The identical twins joined the Navy in 2018 and have been separated since “A” School in Great Lakes, Ill.

MACDILL THUNDERBOLT u Thursday, August 8, 2024 u WWW.MACDILLTHUNDERBOLT.COM u 5

NEWS/FEATURES 3rd Infantry Division takes flight with drone build course

by Cpl. Jonathon Downs 3rd Infantry Division

FORT STEWART, Ga.—A new chapter in military innovation unfolded last week as Soldiers immersed themselves into a world of cutting-edge technology, drones and systems.

The Marne Innovation Center at Fort Stewart hosted a small unmanned aerial systems (sUAS) course for Dogface Soldiers from July 22-26, 2024. The course was led

by Building Momentum, a company which teaches the Department of Defense innovative defense technology.

Small unmanned aerial systems have played an increasingly important role in combat in recent years, acting as inexpensive and effective close-range air support. Nations and militants who can’t obtain planes or helicopters can still afford to invest in drone technology, allowing them to support ground engagements from the air. Empowering U.S. Soldiers with this knowledge and capability can greatly improve national security.

The course focused on building and operating drone systems for national defense, with an emphasis on multi-rotor drones in particular.

“We like to take a very hands-on approach to our learning,” said Henry Sullivan, Chief Product Officer for Building Momentum. “You do a little bit of theory and then you either build a drone frame, assemble motors or spend half a day soldering. You get hands on with all of the tech.”

The course adhered to a crawl, walk, run structure.

Each day delved deeper into important sUAS knowledge, starting with the basics of drone components and functions, and culminating with flight simulations, aerial maneuvers and complex drone operations.

“We try to look at all of our classes from a student perspective,” said Sullivan. “We try to cater the course to some of those requirements and then ramp up really, really fast.”

The course endeavored to boost both the 3rd Infantry Division’s knowledge and building capabilities of sUAS. It also took inspiration from the ongoing efforts in the war in Ukraine, drawing upon modern combat scenarios and adapting them into comprehensive training.

“As everyone has seen in modern warfare, small UAS is becoming a huge battlefield asset,’ said Capt. Carlos Rodriguez, a student attending the course. “We want to make every one of our Soldiers a builder of UAS and have some knowledge on it so they can employ some of these systems in combat and in training.”

6

u

Photo by Pfc. Henry Benson

Ruchi Saraf, senior training associate with Building Momentum, checks the drone designs of U.S. Army Spc. Adonis Sanchez, left, and Pfc. Jacob Morgan, both assigned to the 3rd Combat Aviation Brigade, 3rd Infantry Division, prior to their test flights at an airfield in Hinesville, Georgia, July 25. After conducting flight simulations, Soldiers tested their capabilities with a maiden flight.

Photo by Pfc. Henry Benson

A Soldier sets up drone designs in formation prior to test flights as part of a drone build course at an airfield in Hinesville, Georgia, July 26. After four days of classroom instruction and drone construction, Soldiers were tested on their drones’ effectiveness and their piloting skills. Soldiers used these tests to boost their capabilities with flying procedures and aerial maneuvers.

WWW.MACDILLTHUNDERBOLT.COM u Thursday, August 8, 2024 u MACDILL THUNDERBOLT

MACDILL THUNDERBOLT u Thursday, August 8, 2024 u WWW.MACDILLTHUNDERBOLT.COM u 7

Reflections of sacrifice: Korean War Armistice Day 2024

by Sgt. Tarako Braswell 335th Signal Command (Theater) Each year in late July since 1990, the American Korean Friendship Society hosts a commemorative observance to remember the 740 Georgians killed in the Korean War and to honor all Korean War veterans residing in Georgia. The Korean War Armistice was signed on July 27, 1953, marking the end of a brutal conflict that left an indelible mark on both nations. This year, the commemoration took place on July 26 at the 1818 Club in Duluth, Georgia. At 11 AM, a sense of reverence filled the air as veterans, officials, and community members gathered to pay their respects.

“When we started this dinner in 1991, we had 370 Korean War veterans attend that evening, and now we can’t even get two dozen Korean War veterans,. Many of them gone to God, and many unable to attend.

It’s such an emotional, such a sad thing. However, our gratefulness is always there and never ending.” Mr. Sunny Park, President of the American Korean Friendship Society.

Spearheaded by the President of the American Freedom Society, Mr. Park. The event was a powerful testament to the enduring strength of the United States and South Korea’s alliance as they continue to stand side by side in unity. Among the esteemed guests in attendance were the Honorable Chris Karr, Attorney General of Georgia; Major General Richard “Dwayne” Wilson, Adjutant General of the Georgia Department of Defense; Mr. Sunny Park, President of the American Korean Friendship Society; The Honorable Seok Woo Kim, Deputy Consul General, Republic of Korea (ROK), and many other significant attendees. Their presence underscored the significance of this day and the shared commitment to honoring the legacy of those who fought and sacrificed during the Korean War. Wreaths were laid by fellow Korean War veterans, representatives from the Korean Government, the Georgia National Guard, the U.S. Army Reserve, the USO, Hyundai Motor Group, the Federation of Korean American Associations in the Southeastern US, and various organizations within the Korean American community in Atlanta. Each wreath represented a tribute to the fallen and a gesture of unity and remembrance. As the ceremony unfolded, speeches resonated with gratitude for the sacrifices made by veterans and their families, as well as with a renewed sense of purpose for the future. Major General Jan Norris, the commanding general of the 335th Signal Command (T), participated in the touching wreath-laying ceremony alongside the American Korean Friendship Society, emphasizing the importance of remembering the past while looking ahead to the shared opportunities and challenges that lie ahead for the United States and South Korea.

The relationship between the United States and South Korea was forged in blood during acts of heroism, courage, and sacrifice by the United States military. The war resulted in 33,686 battle deaths, 2,830 non8

u

battle deaths, and 8,176 missing in action. Today, South Korea stands as one of the world’s top economies, a testament to the enduring legacy of the sacrifices made by American soldiers. South Korean businesses have invested more than $25 billion and counting in Georgia alone over the past decade, further solidifying the bond between the two nations. The American-Korean alliance, forged in the crucible of war, remains as vital today as it was during the tumultuous days of the Korean War. The partnership between the two nations has evolved into a cornerstone of peace and stability in the Asia-Pacific region, serving as a bulwark against threats to freedom and democracy.

For 28 years, the American Korean Friendship Society has placed “Thank You America” highway billboard advertisements in five major US cities every July to express gratitude for the supreme sacrifices of Korean War veterans. This year, with the generous sponsorship of Hyundai Motor Group, the number of cities was doubled to ten. From July 15 through August 14, 2024, billboards in Atlanta, Washington, DC, New York, Boston, Houston, Dallas, Los Angeles, Chicago, San Diego, and San Francisco displayed messages of thanks, reaching approximately 1.6 million cars each day. The Honorable Chris Karr, speaking on behalf of the state of Georgia, highlighted the economic, cultural, and strategic ties that bind the United States and South Korea together. He emphasized the importance of fostering mutual understanding and cooperation to address the complex challenges of the 21st century. Major General Dwayne Wilson, TAG, echoed these sentiments, noting that the American-Korean alliance is a shining example of how two nations can overcome adversity and build a brighter future together.

As the ceremony concluded, the attendees reflected on the enduring friendship between the United States and South Korea. Mr. Park, spoke passionately about the enduring bonds of friendship and camaraderie that have flourished between the people of the United States and South Korea. He emphasized the need to nurture these relationships and build bridges of understanding that transcend borders and cultures. The Honorable Seok Woo Kim reaffirmed South Korea’s deep appreciation for the sacrifices made by American service members during the Korean War and expressed his country’s unwavering commitment to upholding the values of freedom, democracy, and human rights that both nations hold dear. A sense of unity and solidarity filled the air, reminding all those in attendance of the enduring power of friendship and cooperation.

The sacrifices made during the Korean War laid the foundation for a relationship built on mutual respect and shared values. The wreathlaying ceremony served as a poignant reminder of the cost of freedom and the importance of honoring those who fought to preserve it. Through their presence and participation, the community reaffirmed their commitment to remembering the past and building a future defined by peace and cooperation.

WWW.MACDILLTHUNDERBOLT.COM u Thursday, August 8, 2024 u MACDILL THUNDERBOLT

See KOREAN WAR, Page 14

U.S. Army photo by Spc. Jacob Fontenot

(Above) U.S. Army Maj. Gen. Jan Norris, Commanding General, 335th Signal Command (Theater), and representatives of the American Korean Friendship Society, present a wreath during the 2024 Korean War Armistice Day Commemoration and Wreath Laying Ceremony in Duluth, Ga., July 26. The event featured a wreath-laying ceremony and speeches from distinguished guests, emphasizing the significance of Korean War Armistice Day in honoring veterans and reflecting on the enduring impact of their sacrifices on the strong U.S.-Korea alliance.

(Left) U.S. Army Maj. Gen. Jan Norris, Commanding General, 335th Signal Command (Theater), listens to a Korean War veteran during the 2024 Korean War Armistice Day Commemoration and Wreath Laying Ceremony in Duluth, Ga., July 26. The event featured a wreath-laying ceremony and speeches from distinguished guests, emphasizing the significance of Korean War Armistice Day in honoring veterans and reflecting on the enduring impact of their sacrifices on the strong U.S.-Korea alliance.

U.S. Army Reserve photo by Sgt. Tarako Braswell

SPACE From Page 3

to making human spaceflight possible,” said Hague.

“It is this giant team that is all interconnected. Everybody that works at Patrick, everybody that works at the Cape, needs to know that they’re riding on that rocket with us.”

At the event, military members were able to speak to and take photos with the crew members. Representatives also read statements to the space-bound crew regarding how their particular units provide support for missions like Crew-9.

It was a unique opportunity for the crew members to hear firsthand about the diverse group of units that contribute to the success of launch missions. Hague came away from the meeting with a deeper appreciation for the service members that are necessary to get crews into space.

“I’ve got a new collection of faces and names that I’ll be thinking of as I’m riding the elevator up to the top of the launch tower, as I’m strapping into that seat, and as the clock starts ticking towards zero,” said Hague. “The opportunity to come and meet everybody has been phenomenal.”

The units and organizations in attendance included: n 45th Space Launch Delta Staff Agency n 45th Comptroller Squadron n 45th Force Support Squadron n 45th Contracting Squadron n 45th Logistics Readiness Squadron n 45th Weather Squadron n 45th Security Forces Squadron n 45th Civil Engineer Squadron n 45th Medical Group n Assured Access to Space n 5th Space Launch Squadron n 1st Range Operations Squadron Guardians often provide support to launches, but this would be the first time one of their own would be aboard. Hague is slated to be the first Guardian to travel to space on his way to the ISS. He spoke to the significance of this moment.

“It’s a huge honor because of what I represent,” said Hague. “I represent all those Guardians around the globe. It’s a thrill to be a part of that and to represent that going up.”

After reaching the ISS, the crew will begin conducting operations and research experiments during the course of their stay in orbit above planet Earth.

The Crew-9 mission is scheduled to launch aboard the SpaceX Dragon spacecraft later this year. When that day comes, members of PSFB and CCSFS will be prepared to utilize their skills and make history as they assist in getting a Guardian into space for the first time.

10

u

Photo by Airman 1st Class Spencer Contreras

A NASA SpaceX Crew-9 mission crew member and service members from the 1st Range Operations Squadron pose for a picture during an event at the Sands Space History Center at Cape Canaveral Space Force Station, Florida, July 23. The Crew-9 mission would be the first time a rocket would launch with a U.S. Space Force Guardian aboard.

Photo by Airman 1st Class Spencer Contreras

Service members from the 45th Civil Engineer Squadron address NASA SpaceX Crew-9 mission crew members during an event at the Sands Space History Center at Cape Canaveral Space Force Station, Florida, July 23. The Crew-9 mission would be the first time a rocket would launch with a U.S. Space Force Guardian aboard.

WWW.MACDILLTHUNDERBOLT.COM u Thursday, August 8, 2024 u MACDILL THUNDERBOLT

TWINS From Page 5

to serve in the same unit or naval vessel. When USS Juneau (CL 52) was torpedoed during the Battle of Guadal Canal on November 13, 1942, the ship was lost with all five Sullivan brothers aboard.

Since then brothers or members of the same family may serve in the same ship, pending approval by Commander, Navy Personnel Command.

Because they reported to boot camp a week apart, the twins were separated into different divisions, and weren’t expecting to run into each other while there.

“Then one day we were both in the mess hall, and I looked over and saw Guojian, and was really surprised!

So I was trying to talk to him, but we quickly decided it would be best to not talk to each other in that situation (laughs), but it was really nice to see each other,” Guokang said.

It wasn’t until a few weeks later the twins discovered they were in the same building and ship the whole time.

“I was writing all of the deck log entries for an upcoming inspection, and the RDC (Recruit Division Commander) commended me on my handwriting. After we passed the inspection. He called me into his office and told me to wait there. I was worried at first, thinking I had done something wrong. I couldn’t believe it when he brought my brother over and gave us a chance to talk to each other for a few minutes,” Guokang said.

“Family is very important to us, and because we both worry about each other, we just kept telling each other, ‘please graduate on time.’ We were so grateful for that moment, and we both graduated on time and went to ‘A School’ together in Great Lakes. We were there together for about three months,” Guojian said.

Guojian’s school was about three months longer, so Guokang got to the Fleet first. “I got orders to USS Lake Champlain (CG 57) in San Diego in September 2018 and stayed there for almost five years, Guokang added.”

Guojian’s first orders were to Yokosuka, Japan aboard USS Barry (DDG 52). Because Barry is forward deployed to Japan, his designated sea tour was a year shorter, so after four years he picked orders to SERMC in Florida.

“Once I finished my five-year sea tour on Lake Champlain, we wanted the opportunity to live together again and save money, and fortunately there was an opening at SERMC, so I accepted the orders and now I work in the Gauge Cal Shop,” Guokang said.

“Before I got there, I was always telling Guojian to be really nice to people, because when I get there people won’t be able to tell the difference! (laughs) I told him to just be nice to everyone, stay motivated, stuff like that,” Guokang said.

“Yeah, I developed all of the connections for him, and made his transition here very easy (laughs),” Guojian said.

“A lot of funny stuff happened every day at first. People who work for in the Gas Turbine Shop would approach me in the passageway with a question or looking for help, or to just chat, which is always funny. But now most people know us and can identify the subtle differences.”

The twins wear different uniforms on most days, different colored rims on their glasses and part their hair on different sides to help differentiate between them. Because Guojian works in the Gas Turbine Shop he wears coveralls most of the time, while in the Gauge Cal Shop Guokang wears Type III uniform.

“We don’t get competitive with each other and are always encouraging each other. I mean, it’s great that we’ve been able to progress up the ranks concurrently,” Guokang said.

Right now the twins are happy working together at SERMC, and are in the process of buying a home so they can pay down the mortgage together. They’d like to buy a second home here eventually.

Both Xie brothers will re-enlist at the end of their current agreement. “We realize with the difference in transfer dates that we’ll probably end up separated again, but that’s ok because we’re in this for the long haul, and love the Jacksonville area,” Guokang said.

MACDILL THUNDERBOLT u Thursday, August 8, 2024 u WWW.MACDILLTHUNDERBOLT.COM u 11

CLOSURE From Page 2

lots who went missing in 1966.

Hile’s sense of duty was firmly established in his family’s long-running tradition of military service, long before he ever wore the uniform.

“My father was in the Navy,” Hile said. “My grandfather fought in World War II with the Navy. My great-grandfather fought in World War I. Great-greats all the way back to the Civil War. With the exception of Korea, my family’s been in every war.”

That same sense of duty drove Hile to enlist in the Air Force in 2011, at the height of the war in Afghanistan. He had seen news that improvised explosive devices were the most lethal weapon used against U.S. personnel in the Global War on Terror, helping him determine that the most impactful avenue for his service would be in EOD. “It’s immediate gratification,” Hile said. “Anything that’s explosive, you destroy it. It’s gone.

You just saved someone’s life.”

Whether in combat overseas or conducting base support operations stateside, EOD technicians are specially trained to identify, mitigate, render safe and dispose of any chemical, biological, radiological, nuclear or explosive hazard, making them a vital enabler to DPAA’s mission.

DPAA employs a contingent of archaeologists, investigators, laborers and other specialists to safely find and excavate remains that can often be surrounded by dormant explosive hazards.

Hile’s mission in Laos PDR was no exception.

“When a plane crashes, there are explosive hazards, even if there’s no ordnance,” Hile said.

“And Laos is the most bombed nation in world history. The area is riddled with unexploded ordnance.”

Between 1964 and 1973, the United States consistently flew bombing missions over Laos to dislodge the Pathet Lao communist government and disrupt the flow of supplies to communist forces in Vietnam via the Ho Chi Minh trail. In that time, more than two million tons of ordnance were dropped on Laos, which is an amount greater than all the bombs dropped throughout World War II. On this mission in 2023, Hile and his DPAA team were excavating the 1966 crash site of a B-57 Canberra, a Cold War-era tactical bomber used primarily for nighttime bombing missions during the Vietnam War. The B-57 was piloted See CLOSURE, Page 16

12

u

Photo by Staff Sgt. Ariel Owings

U.S. Army Staff Sgt. Melanie Galindo, a Defense POW/MIA Accounting Agency (DPAA) recovery NCO, sweeps a unit during a recovery mission in Laos People’s Democratic Republic (Laos PDR), March 22, 2023. During excavation, the Scientific Recovery Expert (SRE) is responsible for keeping each unit within the grid clean and organized for proper documentation. There are currently 276 missing Americans from the Vietnam War whose remains are believed to be in Laos PDR.

Photo by Staff Sgt. Ariel Owings

U.S. Army Staff Sgt. Melanie Galindo, a Defense POW/MIA Accounting Agency (DPAA) recovery NCO, sweeps a unit during a recovery mission in Laos People’s Democratic Republic (Laos PDR), March 22, 2023. During excavation, the Scientific Recovery Expert (SRE) is responsible for keeping each unit within the grid clean and organized for proper documentation. There are currently 276 missing Americans from the Vietnam War whose remains are believed to be in Laos PDR.

WWW.MACDILLTHUNDERBOLT.COM u Thursday, August 8, 2024 u MACDILL THUNDERBOLT

AFWERX From Page 3

ergy storage system and the portable chargers provided by the original equipment manufacturers. We are assessing the overall flight operations in the context of Air Force and other stakeholder concepts of employment.”

AFWERX’s mission is to accelerate innovative and emerging technologies toward capabilities that can be transitioned to the warfighter. The Agility Prime program focuses on transformative vertical lift technologies, such as the BlackFly, which explores different electric and hybrid vehicles for various mission sets.

These sleek, single seat eVTOL aircraft, normally piloted by a person, are being tested in an unmanned configuration to better assess their capabilities and potential military applications.

“We’re exploring a range of military-type use cases, from logistics and material transport to emergency response and intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance missions,” said Jacob Wilson, AFWERX Agility Prime acting branch chief. “Our goal is to accelerate the commercial adoption of these innovations, particularly in the U.S., to ensure a strong industrial base of these technologies and transition the most suitable among them to the warfighter.”

The morning of testing began with preparing the equipment in a hangar at the National Advanced Air Mobility Center of Excellence, or NAAMCE. The NAAMCE opened Sept. 18, 2023, to advance the development and integration of advanced air mobility technologies and holds a certificate of authorization for unmanned flight operations, enabling extensive testing of airspace integration and potential policy development for both piloted and remotely piloted aircraft.

The team hooked up a BlackFly aircraft to the back of a pickup truck, grabbed the remote control for the DANNAR and then headed out to the flightline. DANNAR is also an AFWERX partner and its remote controlled Mobile Power Station can provide up to a half-megawatt of energy storage in its high-capacity lithium ion battery packs. The four-wheel drive and multi-mode steering capabilities enhance its usability in austere environments.

“The DANNAR system is designed to provide modularity and flexibility,” Lane said. “We use it for various power aspects, including ground control computers and aircraft recharging. Today, we have two 120-volt

outlets supporting our flight operations and a 240-volt outlet for charging aircraft.”

After setting up the ground control station on the flightline, the remote pilot in command is ready for takeoff. The BlackFly’s eight propulsion motors, four on each wing, start to hum softly, gradually increasing in pitch as the rotors spin faster. Its unique V-shaped tail and streamlined fuselage looks like a futuristic craft straight out of a science fiction movie.

The vertical takeoff requires minimal space, demonstrating the BlackFly’s capability to operate in confined areas, unlike traditional aircraft.

The remote pilot then shifts the control input, and the BlackFly starts transitioning from vertical ascent to forward flight. The rotors gradually tilt, propelling the aircraft forward while still climbing.

Joshua Bohun, Sinclair College associate director for advanced air mobility training and the remote pilot in command, explained the flight profile which focused on an ISR use case. Sinclair is subcontracted by MTSI in support of the BlackFly evaluation.

“We fly out to a specific location, get eyes on a target, perform orbits around it and then return,” he said.

While flying the aircraft manually, Bohun monitored the aircraft’s systems, including bat “It’s really easy to fly,” he added, noting that the aircraft’s advanced control systems simplify many aspects of traditional piloting.

The ground control station operator sits next to Bohun and assists by recording detailed notes on every phase of the flight. This data is crucial for analyzing the performance across different configurations and mission profiles.

“We have a very structured approach to gather data for all vendors in the Agility Prime portfolio,” Lane adds.

After completing its 20-minute test flight, the aircraft lands and is plugged into the DANNAR for charging. The team also collects the data on how long it takes to charge and then prepares for a second test flight.

The team operates daily, aiming to maximize flight tests. With six BlackFly’s available, they can swap out aircraft if any issues arise, ensuring continuous testing and data collection. The MTSI team has also evaluated the BETA ALIA, Pyka Pelican Cargo and Pipistrel Velis Electro electric aircraft as a part of the operational leasing effort.

MACDILL THUNDERBOLT u Thursday, August 8, 2024 u WWW.MACDILLTHUNDERBOLT.COM u 13

KOREAN WAR

From Page 8

The 2024 Korean War Armistice Day commemoration was not just a ceremony; it was a testament to the enduring legacy of courage, sacrifice, and the unbreakable bond between the United States and South Korea. The event concluded with expressions to honor the POW/MIA table and a moment of silence to honor the fallen, followed by a luncheon where attendees had the opportunity to further discuss the importance of the American-Korean alliance and strengthen the bonds of friendship and cooperation that have long defined the relationship between the two nations.

As the sun set on this memorable day, the message was clear: the partnership between the United States and South Korea remains as strong as ever, a beacon of hope and stability in an ever-changing world. The legacy of those who fought bravely during the Korean War lives on in the enduring friendship between these two nations, united in purpose and committed to a future of peace and prosperity.

“In this moment of reflection, let us humbly pay homage to the service members who exhibited unparalleled courage, the families who provided unwavering support, and the civilians who endured immense hardships during this tumultuous chapter in our collective history.

Today presents an opportunity for us to recommit ourselves to preserving the invaluable lessons derived from the Korean War and to uphold the timeless values of service, sacrifice, and unity that serve as the bedrock of the Army Reserve, Army, and this great nation.”

Maj. Gen. Jan Norris, Commanding General 335th Signal Command (Theater).

14

u

WWW.MACDILLTHUNDERBOLT.COM u Thursday, August 8, 2024 u MACDILL THUNDERBOLT

COMMUNITY

EVENTS

Family Fun Night Join the fun at MacDill Lanes & Family Fun Center for “Kids Night” Family Fun Night on 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.

Adults-Only Game Night Looking for a fun hangout spot?

Come to the Late-Night Game Night (ages 18+) at MacDill Lanes & Family Fun Center on Aug. 17 from 8:30– 11:30 p.m. For just $20, enjoy five games of bowling with shoes, various card and board games, and delicious food (ESM approved menu available) and bar service until 10:30 p.m. Prizes await the winners of the card and board games. Grab your friends and make it a night to remember. Visit macdillfss.com/wp-content/uploads/ LateNightGameNight.pdf for more details.

Outdoor Adventure Tours Experience the thrill of adventure with 6th FSS Outdoor Adventure Tours. From mastering the basics of kayaking to embarking on exhilarating kayak tours, swimming alongside majestic manatees, and exploring the depths through scuba diving, Outdoor Recreation trips and classes offer unforgettable experiences for outdoor enthusiasts of all levels.

Dive into nature and create memories forever. Visit macdillfss.com/ outdoor-adventure-tours/ to view upcoming classes and trips. Tours sell out quickly. Sign up today.

The Champ

Photo by Tech. Sgt. Alexander Cook

U.S. Air Force Col. Adam Bingham, 6th Air Refueling Wing commander, left, and Brian Eastman, 6th ARW director of staff, right, present the Champ of the Week award to Chris Parker, 6th ARW civil law attorney, at MacDill Air Force Base June 25. Parker is responsible for managing the Exceptional Family Member Program along with ethics, labor law and employment contracts.

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 8, 2024 u WWW.MACDILLTHUNDERBOLT.COM u 15

CLOSURE From Page 12

by U.S. Air Force Col. Everett Kerr and Col. Charles Burkhart, who perished in a mountainside crash enroute to a bombing mission over North Vietnam.

After an investigation team confirmed with local Laotians that a plane had crashed nearby in 1966, DPAA put out a call for recovery mission volunteers. When Hile’s leadership notified him of the request, he did not hesitate to volunteer. For EOD technicians, DPAA missions are highly sought taskings.

“As soon as you get the opportunity, you clear your calendar and you go,” Hile said.

Hile would have volunteered for a DPAA mission to any location, but his uncle’s experience as a U.S. Marine aviator during the Vietnam War made the trip doubly special. After growing up hearing his uncle’s stories of Vietnam, Hile would now be able to experience the sights, sounds and feel of the region for himself.

He arrived in Laos in February 2023 for a six-week stint working the crash site with over a dozen other joint service members. Hile’s duties alternated between excavating the site with other volunteers and diligently searching for buried unexploded ordnance, or UXOs, with his fellow EOD technicians.

“We were digging holes 12 hours a day, moving and sifting through tons of dirt daily just to try to get to the remains,” Hile said. “And other days I’d swing my metal detector 12 hours a day, and any time it would hit for metal, we’d investigate. Any UXOs we found we’d take off to the side and blow up when we had time.”

While many DPAA recovery missions search for members’ biological remains, the team in Laos PDR faced a unique challenge: the Laotian jungle soil is so acidic that it erodes bones, meaning they would instead need to search for personal belongings or uniform items that could confirm the pilots’ identity.

Hile recalls one member of the trip, a veteran of U.S. Military Assistance Command, Vietnam (MACV), a joint-service unit used extensively in covert special operations during the Vietnam War. The man had come to Laos PDR repeatedly to search the hills and jungles for the remains of a teammate who had been killed in a firefight and left behind. Hile distinctly remembers how sobering it was to watch the man tirelessly work

16

u

to find his friend.

“This man’s hunting around Laos for his partner who died out there in 1968,” Hile said. “The guy’s 74; he’s got the right to just retire and live his life. But he won’t because he’s still fighting that war.”

As the team continued uncovering the site and disposing of UXOs, Hile started to see that their work impacted more than just the families and friends of the missing; it also directly touched the lives of the local people.

“We were helping out by doing the normal bread-and-butter work of EOD,” Hile said. “We were protecting people and property and restoring the site to a safe, usable condition.”

Even with their difficult task and busy schedule, the team quickly became crowd favorites of the local children.

“We would buy a bunch of candy and soccer balls and go pass them out to kids in the village,” Hile said. “The kids would latch onto us. You’d have a kid hanging out with you while you’re digging on the mountainside.

That was definitely something that I did not expect that I really enjoyed.”

Finally, after weeks of digging and reaching depths of approximately 30 feet into the ground, the team found the pilots’ helmets, uniforms, parts of their boots and a set of rosary beads, which Hile said Col. Burkhart always wore around his neck when he flew.

When teams like Hile’s discover remains or personal items of missing service members around the world, it allows DPAA to provide families some level of closure that was previously lacking in the indefinite “missing” status of their deceased service member.

“I was talking to Col. Burkhart’s son; he’s a 65 year old man now,” Hile said. “His dad went to war and never came home. He never got a casket and never got to have that closure. We owe that to them, whether it’s Laos, Vietnam, Germany. We owe that to them.”

Hile returned from the trip in April 2023 with an expanded interpersonal understanding of service, and of some of the lesser-known operations the U.S. military conducts around the world.

“This mission was completely different than anything else that you’ll do in in the military,” Hile said. “It was a completely different perspective from any mission that I’ve had.”

Going forward, Hile plans to continue serving as an EOD technician for the remainder of his Air Force career.

WWW.MACDILLTHUNDERBOLT.COM u Thursday, August 8, 2024 u MACDILL THUNDERBOLT