Thunderbolt 9/14/2023

Vol. 51, No. 37

Thursday, September 14, 2023

News/Features: page 2 Young pilots changing aviation

News/Features: page 3 CMSAF engages with Airmen

Week in photos: page 4 Images from the week

D-Cell raises ‘bare base’ Photo by Airman 1st Class Zachary Foster

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

Airmen assigned to the 24th Special Operations Wing, Detachment 1, also known as Deployment Cell or “D-Cell,” construct tents during a certification exercise at Robins Air Force Base, Georgia, Aug. 22. Based out of MacDill Air Force Base, Florida, D-Cell consists of 54 members across 15 job codes forming four agile teams, whose primary role is to “bare base” – to rapidly turn undeveloped locations into fully functional bases. The unit visited Robins AFB to certify their capabilities as an alert response team.

NEWS/FEATURES

After 5 years, AF JROTC Flight Academy changing the face of aviation

by Phil Berube Air University Public Affairs MAXWELL AIR FORCE BASE, Ala. (AFNS)—The face of aviation is changing and it’s beginning to look a lot like high school students.

It’s been five years since the first group of cadets buckled up in cockpits in pursuit of an Air Force-sponsored private pilot certificate through the Air Force Junior Reserve Officers’ Training Corps Flight Academy program.

Since the summer of 2018, 1,089 AFJROTC cadets have pursued their dream of becoming a pilot, with 861, or 79%, succeeding. A significant achievement considering that outside of the program, the dropout rate for learner pilots is around 80%, according to research by aviation advocacy groups, such as Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association.

Headquarters AFJROTC first started taking Flight Academy scholarship applications in the fall of 2017, with the first aviation classes starting the following summer at six partnering universities. That number has since grown to 24 participating universities in 2023, which includes some of the nation’s leading flight programs like Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University and Purdue University.

See ROTC, Page 13

Courtesy Photo

Air Force Junior Reserve Officers’ Training Corps Cadet John Gragg conducts a pre-flight inspection on an aircraft at Troy University, Troy, Ala., July 27. Gragg, a student at Clover High School, S.C., was one of the JROTC cadets taking part in pilot training at Troy University over the summer. Troy was one of 24 partnering universities in 2023 providing an eight-week pilot training course for academy attendees.

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.

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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

CMSAF speaks on ‘serving during a consequential time’ Top enlisted leader engages with Airmen at Joint Base Andrews

by Senior Airman Daekwon Stith 316th Wing Public Affairs JOINT BASE ANDREWS, Md. (AFNS)— Chief Master Sgt. of the Air Force JoAnne S. Bass discussed current and future challenges for Airmen while speaking with base personnel, Aug. 30.

“We are serving during a consequential time, probably the most consequential I’ve seen in my 30-year career,” Bass said at the opening of her Q&A session at the base theater.

Before taking questions, Bass outlined the current global landscape and the imperative for increasing military strength as a deterrent to U.S. competitors. She also highlighted conflict hotspots, including Ukraine, the Middle East, North Korea and China as influences on the Air Force’s direction moving forward.

Highlighting that the U.S. military can no longer solely lead in air, land and sea, Bass

Photo by Airman 1st Class Gianluca Ciccopiedi

Chief Master Sgt. of the Air Force JoAnne S. Bass speaks with Airmen during an all-call at Joint Base Andrews, Md., Aug. 30. Bass represents the highest enlisted level of leadership in the U.S. See CMSAF, Page 12 Air Force.

The 305th AMW says ‘Can Do’ to Dock 46 Two-Bay Hangar

by Senior Airman Matt Porter 87th Air Base Wing

JOINT BASE MCGUIRE-DIX-LAKEHURST, N.J.—he 305th Air Mobility Wing held a ribbon-cutting ceremony for its newly commissioned ‘Dock 46 two-bay hangar’ at Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst, N.J., on August 24.

The event concludes four and a half years of planning and 240,650 accident-free man-hours after its initial groundbreaking on December 3, 2018.

A military construction project valued at nearly $54 million, the hangar will serve as a mission-critical asset in the KC-46A Pegasus’ ability to provide Rapid Global Mobility for the Joint Force.

For the men and women of the 605th AMXS, it signifies a historic weapon system transfer and the beginning of a new era in global aerial refueling operations.

See 305th, Page 11

U.S. Air Force photo

New Jersey 4th District Congressman Chris Smith addressed the audience on the strategic value the facility brings to the KC-46A Pegasus refueling mission. The event concludes four and a half years of planning and 240,650 accident-free man-hours after its initial groundbreaking on December 3, 2018.

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WEEK IN PHOTOS

Photo by Airman 1st Class Zachary Foster

Airmen assigned to the 24th Special Operations Wing, Detachment 1, also known as Deployment Cell or “D-Cell,” move in formation during a certification exercise at Robins Air Force Base, Georgia, Aug. 23. The D-Cell Alpha and Charlie Teams underwent this off-station certification exercise to ensure their capabilities to respond to global alert scenarios at a moment’s notice.

Photo by Airman 1st Class Zachary Foster

Photo by Senior Airman Joshua Hastings

U.S. Air Force Staff Sgt. Joshua Jordan, structural craftsman with the 24th Special Operations Wing, Detachment 1, also known as Deployment Cell or “D-Cell,” operates a forklift during a certification exercise at Robins Air Force Base, Georgia, Aug. 25. The D-Cell’s primary role is to “bare base” or turn unfamiliar terrain into a habitable environment as quickly as possible.

Bottlenose dolphins search for food along the shoreline at MacDill Air Force Base Sept. 6. Bottlenose dolphins, found throughout the world in both offshore and coastal waters, feed on a variety of prey such as fish, squid and crustaceans.

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NEWS/FEATURES Micro-reactor pilot program reaches major milestone

Secretary of the Air Force Public Affairs

ARLINGTON, Va. (AFNS)—The Department of the Air Force, in partnership with the Defense Logistics Agency Energy, reached a critical milestone Aug. 31, in piloting advanced nuclear energy technology with the issuance of the Notice of Intent to Award a contract to Oklo Inc. Oklo Inc. will site, design, construct, own and operate a micro-reactor facility licensed by the Nuclear Regulatory Commissionat Eielson Air Force Base, Alaska. The notice initiates the acquisition process to potentially award a 30-year, firm-fixed-price contract to the vendor after successfully obtaining an NRC license.

“The Department of the Air Force announcement today demonstrates how the Department of Defense continues to invest in facilitating U.S.developed technology that provides mission assurance and advances our national interests in Alaska and the homeland,” said Brendan Owens, assistant secretary of Defense for Energy, Installations, and Environment.” We are watching this project closely and working with the other military departments to identify additional installations where deployment of U.S.-developed advanced nuclear technology will improve power reliability and installation resilience.”

Micro-reactors are small nuclear reactors that can produce carbonfree energy and are equipped with built-in safety features that selfadjust to changing conditions and demands to prevent overheating. The technology’s ability to operate independently from the commercial grid and reduce greenhouse gas emissions make micro-reactors a promising power source for critical national security infrastructure.

“Today is a historic first for the Air Force, state of Alaska, and the nation. Safe, reliable, clean energy using micro-reactor technology will be an integral part of Air Force installations in the future. The best part of this innovation is that we are coming together at the beginning to demonstrate this capability—partnering with key regulatory authorities, state, and local communities to ensure we get this right and do it safely,” said Dr. Ravi Chaudhary, assistant secretary of the Air Force for Energy, Installations, and Environment. “It’s a huge team effort. By seizing the initiative on this critical technology today, we are laying the foundation for American competitiveness in energy for years to come.”

As the impacts of changing environmental conditions become more recognizable, the Department understands the importance to secure energy infrastructure, supply chains and logistics to ensure mission resilience and resource availability.

See MICRO, Page 10

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Airmen reflect on lessons learned at Patriot Medic 23

by Julian Hernandez 433rd Airlift Wing Public Affairs

JOINT BASE SAN ANTONIO-LACKLAND, Texas (AFNS)—The 433rd Medical Group returned home after validating its readiness to deploy by participating in Patriot Medic 23. The training, part of a larger exercise called Global Medic, involved more than 7,100 Reserve, active duty and allied forces as well as coalition partners.

Seventy Reserve Airmen from the 433rd MDG spent 19 days undergoing rigorous and realistic training at Youngstown Air Reserve Station, Ohio and Fort McCoy, Wisconsin.

On top of validating the Airmen’s readiness to deploy, the annual exercise served to enhance interoperability between units, medics, individual reservists and the joint force.

Patriot Medic 23 provided “Alamo Wing” reservists opportunities to sharpen their skills beyond what can typically be accomplished during monthly unit training activities.

“What I’m grateful for is that I’d never seen our people in the 433rd Aeromedical Staging Squadron come together before, they’d never had too before” said Maj. Reginald Whittington, 433rd ASTS Bravo Flight commander. “I was very impressed with the junior Airmen, the senior leadership … I would go to war with these people … we have people in the unit that I would trust with my life.”

Participation in Patriot Medic led to learning moments for new Airmen and veterans alike. Airmen from the 433rd ASTS embedded with the 914th ASTS, based out of Niagara Falls ARS, New York as part of their training at the exercise.

“It was the first time in my career that we embedded with another unit,” Whittington, who has served for more than 20 years, noted. “We literally came together with another ASTS who has the same challenges, the same successes, the same, or different, solutions to certain things, and we were able to maximize what works best.”

For several of the “Alamo Wing” reservists, this was only their first or second exercise with the unit.

“When I went in there, honestly I didn’t know what to expect,” said Senior Airman Luis Martinez, a 433rd ASTS medic. “My job here is as a medic so that’s my mentality, I’m going to go be a medic … but it turned out to be a lot more than that. I learned new roles and responsibilities. I learned how to be a leader and I learned also how to be a follower.”

The exercise not only tested the Reserve Airmen’s knowledge of their jobs and their physical capabilities, but also their mental resiliency. Many of the lessons were learned the hard way.

“We failed a lot, which was a good thing because you need to feel that pain and then you come up with better solutions next time,” said Senior Airman Lindsey Neubauer, 433rd ASTS medic.

Both Neubauer and Martinez received challenge coins for their performance at the exercise, a traditional way for military leaders to recognize the efforts of their troops.

Patriot Medic also allowed 433rd MDG senior leaders to evaluate and mentor their Airmen, while strengthening the bonds between the members of their teams.

“I’ve been in for 16 years … this is probably one of the most realistic ones,” Master Sgt. Julie Fuleky, 433rd Medical Squadron Bravo flight chief, pointed out. “As we went See PATRIOT, Page 10

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Reserve Airmen from the 433rd Medical Squadron pose for Base, Ohio, during Patriot Medic 23. Participation in the 19-d vice members from multiple branches and allowed Airmen of

Photo by Julian Hernandez

Photo by Master Sgt. Julie Fuleky

a photo outside their training area at Youngstown Air Reserve day exercise involved more 7,100 Reserve and active-duty serf the 433rd Medical Group to validate their readiness to deploy.

Reserve Airmen with the 433rd Medical Squadron step off a C-5M Super Galaxy as they return to Joint Base San Antonio-Lackland, Texas, Aug. 29, after participating in Patriot Medic 23. Participation in the 19-day exercise involved more 7,100 Reserve and active-duty service members from multiple branches and allowed Airmen of the 433rd Medical Group to validate their readiness to deploy.

(Far left) Master Sgt. Julie Fuleky, a medical technician assigned to the 433rd Medical Group, Joint Base San Antonio-Lackland, Texas, and Capt. Ranieka Lee, a clinical nurse also assigned to the 433MDG, provide care for a patient during exercise Patriot Medic at Youngstown Air Reserve Station, Ohio, Aug. 16. Exercise Patriot Medic combined medical personnel from more than a dozen Reserve squadrons to help build a robust and ready medical force capable of providing trauma, en route care, return-to-duty and evacuation while developing resilient Airmen able to support the warfighter.

(Right) Members of the 433rd Aeromedical Staging Squadron and the 914th ASTS pose for a group photo outside their training area at Fort McCoy, Wis. during Patriot Medic 23. Reserve Airmen from the two units were embedded together during 19-day exercise, involving more 7,100 Reserve and active-duty service members from multiple branches.

Photo by Eric M. White

Photo by Maj. Reginald Whittington

MICRO From Page 5

“Our partnerships with Oklo Inc., Nuclear Regulatory Commission, Department of Energy, Alaska stakeholders and Tribal Nations are imperative to a successful pilot and future implementation scalability of this transformational technology,” said Nancy Balkus, deputy assistant secretary of the Air Force for Environment, Safety and Infrastructure.

The micro-reactor is expected to be operational by the end of 2027, as directed by the fiscal year 2019 National Defense authorization Act. “Eielson (AFB) is eager to welcome this cutting-edge technology onto the base. The NOITA to Oklo Inc. reinforces our commitment to innovation in order to protect and defend the nation with even greater efficiency and effectiveness,” said Col. Paul P. Townsend, 354th Fighter Wing commander at Eielson AFB.

PATRIOT From Page 8

through it, you started to see the team come together … it was a very valuable exercise because, where we normally only see each other two days a month, we were working closely together for 19 days.”

Col. Michelle Van Sickle, 433rd MDG commander, served as the joint task force surgeon at Fort McCoy during the exercise. She observed after the exercise that many of the newer medics were able to fully understand their mission and the importance of training prior to deployment, while more seasoned medics expanded their knowledge about operating in a contested environment.

“They all came together to accomplish the mission, and all performed at, or above, the standard we expected,” Van Sickle said. “I am proud of them.”

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305TH From Page 3

“This project is significant due to the tangible difference it makes in the ability to perform major maintenance on such a complex aircraft,” said U.S. Air Force Lt. Col. Aaron Vogeler, 605th Aircraft Maintenance Squadron commander. “It represents a commitment to the future of this installation and our mission, the defense of our nation, as well as the economic impact on the surrounding communities.”

The prime contractor, Walsh Federal, subcontracted approximately $31 million to 210 New Jersey contractors during the four years of construction.

Approximately 44,000 military and civilian employees work in support of the Joint Base, making it the second-largest employer in New Jersey and contributing nearly $7 billion to New Jersey’s annual economic output.

“After years of advocating in Congress we were able to realize this MILCON,” said Chris Smith, New Jersey 4th District congressman. “I wanted this facility at the Joint Base because of the immense strategic value it brings to the Northeast and our Allies abroad.”

The state-of-the-art facility measures over 90,000 square feet, representing a 50% increase in hangar space for the KC-46. Its fabric doors are designed to withstand winds up to 120 mph and is also equipped with a fire pump capable of pumping 2,500 gpm.

“The KC-46 affords unprecedented connectivity as a Joint Force-multiplier and this Hangar will be instrumental to the global employment of our Pegasus fleet,” said U.S. Air Force Col Elizabeth Hanson, 305th Air Mobility Wing commander. “We thank everyone who helped make this project not only a reality, but a foundation to launch our air refueling mission for tomorrow.”

U.S. Air Force photo

Joint Base Leadership and personnel attend a ribbon cutting ceremony for the opening of the 305th Air Mobility Wing’s Dock 46 Two-Bay Hangar at Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst, N.J. on 24 Aug.

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CMSAF From Page 3

stressed the need for dominance in emerging warfighting domains such as space, cyber and information.

“If we lose in any of those domains, we lose, period,” Bass emphasized.

After detailing challenges occurring on the global stage and strategies to surmount them, she conveyed her enthusiasm and confidence in service members and expressed her gratitude for their service during this pivotal juncture.

“It will be our staff sergeants, tech. sergeants, captains and majors who will shape the future of our force in 2030, 2035, and beyond,” Bass affirmed.

Transitioning to the Q&A session, Bass addressed questions from Airmen regarding promotions, tuition assistance, the multi-capable airman Photo by Airman 1st Class Gianluca Ciccopiedi concept, and other topics. She tied her answers to the four action orders – Airmen, Bureaucracy, Competition, and Design – outlined by Air Force Chief Master Sgt. of the Air Force JoAnne S. Bass takes a photo of Tech.

Chief of Staff Gen. CQ Brown, Jr., with a strong emphasis on the “Air- Sgt. Jennifer Thacker, 316th Security Forces Squadron, at Joint Base men” aspect.

Andrews, Md., Aug. 30.

“I invest most of my time in the ‘Airmen’ piece,” Bass explained. “How do we ensure that our Airmen of today, as well as those in five and 10 tary since 1993 – a partnership that has proven successful in strengthyears, are well taken care of?” ening their capabilities since the invasion of more than 150,000 Russian Reflecting on her participation in the recent Air Force Senior Enlisted troops into Ukraine last year.

Leader International Summit, Bass highlighted discussions with more In her closing statement, Bass shared a remark from the Chief Master than 60 of her top enlisted peers. They agreed the competitive advantage Sgt. of the Air Force of the Armed Forces of Ukraine Kostiantyn Stanultimately resides in people and noncommissioned officer development. islavchuk, about the ongoing conflict as a final word of encouragement for She then spotlighted the tangible results of this approach through the the Air Force’s first-line supervisors: “We will win this war because of the collaboration with the California Air National Guardand Ukrainian mili- strength of our sergeants.”

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ROTC

From Page 2

The program was initially launched as part of the Air Force Aircrew Crisis Task Force with the stated goals of restoring the luster of aviation to high school students by increasing the pool of pilots for both the military and civilian aviation communities, each facing severe pilot shortages and increase diversity in the cockpit.

The AFJROTC Flight Academy accepted the challenge and the program has grown significantly since the initial class of 120 cadets took to the skies in 2018. The COVID-19 pandemic forced the cancellation of the program in 2020.

“All cadets are encouraged to apply for Flight Academy and to consider aviation as a profession,” said Ben Caro, Headquarters AFJROTC Program Development division chief. “It’s fantastic to see the diversity of the cadets interested in the program.”

In 2018, the percentage of underrepresented cadets participating in the Flight Academy was 41%. That number increased each year, with the years 2022 and 2023 each boasting 60% underrepresented groups. Of the 301 AFJROTC cadet participants in 2023, 40% were minorities and 37% female, with 239 receiving their pilot certificate.

“The Flight Academy has generated tremendous interest among our AFJROTC cadet corps with over 9,000 applicants expressing their desire to fly,” said Col. Johnny McGonigal, Headquarters AFJROTC director. “We believe this program meets the Air Force chief of staff’s desire to increase interest in aviation. It also provides an enduring solution for pilot production, while also impacting thediversity challenge facing both the military and civilian aviation communities.”

While the Air Force fully funds the extensive eight-week summer program, there is no requirement for graduates to pursue a military commitment. However, this program has inspired many cadets to take the next step toward becoming a military pilot. Of approximately 591 Flight Academy attendees who have also graduated high school by April 2023, 47% enrolled in the Air Force ROTC program in college to further their goal of becoming an Air Force pilot.

Even for those not pursuing a career in aviation, the academy was a very memorable and valuable experience.

“I highly recommend the flight academy to anyone who is considering it.

It was one of the best experiences I have ever had and wouldn’t trade it for

Courtesy photo

Since the summer of 2018, 1,089 cadets have participated in the Air Force Junior Reserve Officers’ Training Corps Flight Academy program, such as those pictured at Purdue University, West Lafayette, Ind., this summer. Of the 1,089 cadets, 861 succeeded in earning their private pilot certificate through the program. anything,” said 2nd Lt. Adam Landry, who completed the Flight Academy program at Delaware State University in 2019. “I made amazing connections and was grateful for the opportunity to learn how to fly. Thanks for the opportunity to attend the academy, I still think back on the memories quite often even though it was four years ago.”

Landry graduated from Syracuse University’s ROTC program in 2023 with a degree in civil engineering.

I’ve been extremely impressed with the Flight Academy cadets I’ve met and with the outstanding quality of the program overall.”

Brig. Gen. Houston Cantwell, Jeanne M. Holm Center for Officer Accessions and Citizen Development commander “Our intent is to help regenerate interest and inspiration in our nation’s youth to pursue careers in aviation and to diversify the industry as a whole,” said Brig. Gen. Houston Cantwell, Jeanne M. Holm Center for Officer Accessions and Citizen Development commander. “With this program, we believe we are changing the face of aviation one cadet at a time.”

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COMMUNITY

EVENTS

Air Force Birthday Celebration Stop by Boomers from 4 p.m. - 6 p.m. on Friday, Sept. 15 to celebrate the US Air Force’s 76th birthday.

There will be free appetizers, cupcakes, and a DJ. For more details on this event and other specials visit macdillfss.com/afbday_23/.

Golf Tournament The Bay Palms Golf Course is hosting an Air Force 76th Birthday Golf Tournament, on Sept. 16 with a 8 a.m. shotgun start on South Course. Two person teams, 6-hole mix up, non-handicapped event.

Great door prizes and prizes for winning teams followed by lunch.

Advanced green fees $30/ E1-E4 $30/ E5-up $50/ civilians $60. Stop by the Pro Shop to sign up today.

Deadline to register is Sept. 14. For more details, visit bit.ly/AFBdayGolf.

Friday Stampede at Boomers Join the Boomers Stampede every Friday from 3 p.m. – 8 p.m.

Boomer’s is located inside the Breakaway Event Center with a full bar, multiple screen’s, music, and pool tables. Enjoy complimentary snacks and drink specials every Friday. Visit macdillfss.com/ boomers/ for more details.

U.S. Air Force Birthday Specials Enjoy food and beverage specials Sept. 15 – 18 at 8 Iron Grill, Hanger 6 and FitStop. For more information on specials, visit bit.ly/ AFbdaySpecials.

Find more events at: macdillfss.com

The Champ!

Photo by Airman 1st Class Derrick Bole

U.S. Air Force Senior Airman Adrian Catangal, 6th Aircraft Maintenance Squadron crew chief, is recognized as Champ of the Week by the 6th Air Refueling Wing leadership team at MacDill Air Force Base Sept. 5. Catangal was instrumental in implementation of AFWERX REFINERY, a project accelerator for the development and refinement of project prototypes, and developed virtual reality classes for maintenance Airmen to lessen the strain on resources and Airmen.

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.

Protestant virtual services - Sunday - 11 a.m. (www.facebook.com/6amwhc)

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

www.macdill.af.mil/chapel

Islamic Service - Friday 1:30 p.m. (space reserved)

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

Other Faith Groups - Please contact the Chapel at

(confessions by appointment)

(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 ◆ Thursday, September 14, 2023 ◆ WWW.MACDILLTHUNDERBOLT.COM ◆ 15

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