Peninsula Warrior April 5, 2013 Air Force Edition

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:DUULRU J O I N T April 5, 2013 Vol. 4, No. 13

B A S E

L A N G L E Y - E U S T I S

P u b l i s h e d i n t h e i n t e re s t o f p e r s o n n e l a t J o i n t B a s e L a n g l e y - E u s t i s

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Air force EDITION

w w w. p e n i n s u l a w a r r i o r. c o m

MOUNT EVEREST

USAF 7 Summits Challenge Team prepares for climb — Page 8

TRAINING

Langley, Hampton conduct F-22 crash exercise — Page 21

For more online content, check out JBLE.af.mil

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To honor with dignity USAFHG visits Langley – Page 12

COMPETITION ‘Rapid Support’ brigade Soldiers compete in Best Warrior Competition — Page 22

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APRIL 5, 2013

APRIL 5, 2013

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InTheNews

Hagel announces fewer furlough days for civilians By Nick Simeone

Defense Secretary Chuck Hagel and Army Gen. Martin E. Dempsey, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, brief reporters at the Pentagon, March 28. Hagel and Dempsey discussed the ongoing sequester affecting the Defense Department's budget.

AMERICAN FORCES PRESS SERVICE

The Defense Department has revised from 22 to 14 the number of days hundreds of thousands of civilian employees could be furloughed this year because of the budget sequester, Defense Secretary Chuck Hagel announced March 28. In addition, a senior Defense Department official speaking on background told reporters the start of the furloughs will be delayed until mid-to-late June, after more than 700,000 department employees receive furlough notices now set to go out in early May. Furloughs would happen over seven two-week pay periods until the end of September, when the current fiscal year ends, the senior official said, with employees likely to be told not to come to work for two days during each of those pay periods. Department officials say they are still working to determine which employees might be exempted. Hagel characterized the reduced furloughs as well as a revised estimate of sequestration’s impact on the defense budget as good news. The changes follow Con-

Courtesy photo

gressional approval last week of a defense appropriations bill that prevented an additional six billion dollars in cuts, ordered under sequestration, from taking effect. “It reduces a shortfall at least in the operations budget,” the secretary told reporters at a Pentagon news conference. “We came out better than we went in under the sequester, where it looks like our number is $41 billion [in cuts] now versus the $46 billion.” But despite a Congressional reprieve,

Hagel said the Pentagon is still going to be short at least $22 billion for operations and maintenance, “and that means we are going to have to prioritize, make some cuts and do what we’ve got to do,” including making sharp reductions in base operating support and training for nondeployed units. More critical in the long run, he said, is how budget cuts will affect readiness and the department’s overall mission. Because of that concern, he said he has directed

Deputy Defense Secretary Ash Carter and Army Gen. Martin E. Dempsey, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, to conduct an intensive department-wide review of U.S. strategic interests, including how to protect the nation with fewer resources. “How do we prioritize the threats and then the capabilities required to deal with threats?” he said. “There will be some significant changes, there’s no way around it.” Dempsey said the department has already exhausted 80 percent of its operating funds halfway through the fiscal year and characterized the current budget situation as “not the deepest, but the steepest decline in our budget ever,” and warned it will affect military readiness into the future. “We will have to trade at some level and to some degree our future readiness for current operations,” the chairman said. He called on elected leaders to give the Pentagon the budget flexibility it needs to carry out institutional reforms. “We can’t afford excess equipment,” Dempsey said. “We can’t afford excess facilities. We have to reform how we buy weapons and services. We have to reduce redundancy. And we’ve got to change, at some level, our compensation structure.”

3RUWLRQV RI )RUW 0RQURH UHWXUQHG WR 9LUJLQLD By Lisa A. Ferdinando ARMY NEWS SERVICE

The Army has transferred back to the state of Virginia the most historic areas of Fort Monroe, including Freedom’s Fortress. The Army sent the quitclaim deed for the 312.75 acres to the Commonwealth of Virginia on Thursday, said Katherine Hammack, Assistant Secretary of the Army for Installations, Energy and Environment. The deeds for the land date back to 1838. “The Army has spent a significant amount of time surveying and refining property boundaries, so that as this property reverts to the state of Virginia, it can be appropriately handled by the state, whether it’s going to be sold or leased or used for other purposes,” Hammack told participants of a conference call March 28. The Army will continue to provide care-

taker status for the next 60 days to ensure the buildings are maintained and provide a smooth and orderly transition to the state of Virginia’s management, she said. Hammack said there are several smaller properties that need environmental assessments. She said those studies are expected to be completed shortly. She said that property, about 38 acres, will be reverted to the state in the future. Aportion of property at Fort Monroe will be transferred to the National Park Service, Hammack said. However, those 122 acres are still under evaluation. The land for Fort Monroe was deeded to the Army for use as a military reservation and to be reverted back to the Commonwealth of Virginia when it is no longer used for military purposes. Fort Monroe was closed as part of the BRAC 2005 process. The Army has been

working with the state of Virginia and the Fort Monroe Federal Area Development Authority to preserve the historical site. Construction began on Fort Monroe in 1819, after the British sailed up the Chesapeake Bay in 1814 and burned Washington D.C. That action demonstrated a need for coastal defenses. The unique seven-sided fort, which is surrounded by a moat, was designed by Gen. Simon Bernard, who was once an aide to Napoleon Bonaparte. Lt. Robert E. Lee was among the young engineers who eventually worked on the project. He supervised construction of the moat. Later, the fort played a prominent part in the Civil War, helping keep much of the coast under Union control. President Abraham Lincoln personally launched the Union’s attack on Norfolk from inside Fort Monroe’s walls.

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During the course of the war, more than 10,000 escaped slaves were temporarily sheltered on Fort Monroe, and it later became the site of a cemetery for freed slaves. After the war, Confederate President Jefferson Davis was held captive there for more than two years in the casemate dungeon. Later the post served for many years as the Army’s Coast Artillery School. Fort Monroe, located in Virginia’s Tidewater region, became a National Historic Landmark in 1960. In 2011, President Barack Obama designated Fort Monroe a National Monument.

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THE DIFFERENCE IS IN THE DETAIL.

633RD AIR BASE WING PUBLIC AFFAIRS

You come into work one morning and receive an e-mail informing you that you’ve received a new assignment! You get excited, as this is the e-mail you’ve been waiting for – a chance to see more of the world and experience new things. That excitement then turns to stress as your mind starts racing, thinking of everything you must do to make the move go smoothly. While there are many aspects to consider when planning for a permanent change of station, one of the most important is preparing the move of your household goods. Hillman Jackson, Fort Eustis Transportation Management Office manager, offers the following advice to those in this position. “The first thing you should do is go see your TMO office as soon as you get physical orders,” Jackson said. “This will allow us to either book your move then, or set you up with an appointment later.” Jackson also recommends individuals visit http://www.move.mil prior to visiting their office. Many questions people have can be answered through this site. Additionally, permanent party Service members may do the initial consultation online, but students at Fort Eustis must visit the TMO office. Those that need to visit the TMO office can ensure the appointment goes smoothly by knowing the following information prior to their visit: ■ Know what kind of move you want to do Do you want to do it all yourself, do some of it yourself and have the government help, or just have the government do it all? ■ Have an idea of how much stuff you have Identify how many rooms you have, including bedrooms, living rooms, a dining room, a kitchen, etc. You can even use the weight estimator available on move. mil to see approximately how much everything weighs. ■ Make an appointment with TMO You should plan on being at the TMO office for at least one hour. “One of the biggest tips I can give is to plan ahead,” Jackson said. Once you visit the TMO office and your

move is scheduled, you can plan on a 4-6 week wait before movers will pick up your household goods. TMO also encourages people to wait on giving notice to their landlords until they have a firm date of when their household goods will be picked up. The move.mil website also offers the following tips on preparing for your move: ■ Record video of your property prior to the carrier coming to pack it up. ■ Jewelry and other high-value items should not be shipped. If they are shipped, however, ensure they are listed on the inventory slip. ■ Watch the movers as they pack your household goods. If you can’t be present, make sure your spouse or agent knows what to do and arranges for additional help if necessary. ■ Make sure adequate descriptions of the contents are written on the boxes themselves and it matches the inventory sheet. It doesn’t have to match perfectly, but the general category should at least match. ■ Remember it’s your move and you are in charge of it. Make sure everything is recorded and documented before it leaves your control. Once you arrive at your new duty station and from the time you notify the TMO office of your new address, you can expect a wait of about two weeks before your household goods are delivered, said Jackson. If you PCS to an overseas assignment, your wait time is typically 45-60 days for household goods and 30 days for any unaccompanied baggage, such as clothing that is sent separately. For additional information visit http:// www.move.mil, contact the Langley TMO office at 764-7868 or the Fort Eustis TMO office at 878-4664. Editor’s note: This story is part of a series.

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Preparing for takeoff with airfield management By Senior Airman Kayla Newman 633D AIR BASE WING PUBLIC AFFAIRS

In the Air Force, some of the most prominent and widely-known jobs involve pilots. Many people don’t realize when those pilots land their aircraft, one of the first places they report to is airfield management, also referred to as “Base Ops.” The 1st Operations Support Squadron airfield management at Langley Air Force Base, Va., is in charge of overseeing the base’s airfield. Managing the Langley airfield is an encompassing job that requires detailed planning and communication to ensure operations run smoothly. The front counter at Base Ops, known as the airfield management operations counter, is where everything relating to the airfield happens. Pilots submit their flight plans and check in at the counter once they’ve landed, airfield updates are provided, notices to Airmen are logged and bird activity is monitored. “In order to take care of the airfield, we must know everything that is going on,” explained Senior Airman Matthew Morrow, 1st OSS airfield management shift lead. “We also have to make sure everything is secure and safe for planes to take off and land.” One way airfield management ensures security of the runway is through being the focal point for any construction that takes place in or around the airfield, said Staff Sgt. Aundrea Jones, noncommissioned officer in charge of airfield management opera-

Photo by Senior Airman Kayla Newman

U.S.Air Force SeniorAirman Matthew Morrow, 1st Operations Support Squadron airfield management shift lead, performs an inspection on the airfield at Langley Air Force Base, March 20.

tions. Airfield management must maintain safe measures so aircraft can avoid striking construction equipment or personnel in the immediate vicinity of the runways, taxiways and parking ramps. Additionally, in order for planes to land safely, Airfield management conducts nightly lighting inspections to ensure there are no discrepancies with navigational lighting aids, said Jones. Airfield management must also conduct hourly inspections, which must include checking the pavement for foreign objects

and debris, cracks in the pavement or any hazardous runway conditions resulting from adverse weather, said Jones. Parts of the hourly checks also include looking for birds and wildlife, as they are hazards to the jets. “The United States Department of Agriculture is in charge of keeping the wildlife away from the airfield at Langley,” explained Staff Sgt. Antonio Tyson, 1st OSS noncommissioned officer in charge of airfield management training. “For the wildlife that USDA is unable to get, airfield

management does have the authority to scare them away.” Airfield management has the authority to use specific tactics to scare off the wildlife, such as bird aircraft striking guns, which are designed to make loud noises that help birds relocate away from the airfield. Birds aren’t the only potentially harmful wildlife found on the runway. Airfield management has handled frogs, turtles, coyotes and even fish. In an additional effort to control the wildlife around the airfield, the surrounding grass is maintained at a height of 7-14 inches to prevent any wildlife from forming a habitat. While performing these critical checks and procedures are vital in accomplishing their mission, the 12-18 Service members assigned to airfield management must also maintain an open line of communication. Without proper communication, a number of things could go wrong with the jets, pilots or the airfield as a whole. “Communication is the biggest thing,” said Tyson. “If you are comfortable working with and talking to the people you are around every day, you are going to have better communication in letting them know what is going on in the airfield, as well as in the shop.” Airfield management is open 24 hours a day, seven days a week. With such a critical job, airfield management personnel must pay close attention to the security of the airfield and runway through extensive planning and communication, ensuring Langley pilots can land home safely.

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APRIL 5, 2013

1HZ $UP\ 2(5 )HZHU ER[HV PRUH DFFRXQWDELOLW\ By C. Todd Lopez

to write about an ofďŹ cer’s character; “presence,â€? which includes professional conduct, intellect, leadership ability, ability to develop subordinates and ability to achieve their mission. For ďŹ eld grade ofďŹ cers, raters will instead provide narrative commentary that demonstrates an ofďŹ cer’s performance regarding â€œďŹ eld grade competencies.â€? “It reverts back to a narrative description, similar to what we have today, except it is a documentation of performance in line with the attributes and competencies,â€? Mustion said. “What it reects are those things that our ďŹ eld grade ofďŹ cers and warrant ofďŹ cers should be able to accomplish.â€? Mustion said among those attributes are the ability to adjust to an ambiguous situation, for instance, and the ability to manage resources.

ARMY NEWS SERVICE

By December, Army ofďŹ cers will be rated under a new evaluation system – one that is designed to both strengthen rater accountability and reect current Army leadership doctrine. The new system will affect ofďŹ cers in all branches and all components of the Army, said Maj. Gen. Rick Mustion, commander, Army Human Resources Command. Additionally, he said the new OfďŹ cer Evaluation Report, or OER, system will be preceded by deployment of mobile training teams Army-wide to help ofďŹ cers become accustomed to the new system. One change to the OER is emphasis on a clear delineation of responsibilities between raters and senior raters, Mustion said. “Raters discuss performance and senior raters discuss potential,â€? Mustion said. Right now, he added, that distinction is not being made. There will also now be three separate evaluation forms based on grade. Those three “grade platesâ€? include one for company-grade ofďŹ cers, warrant ofďŹ cers and chief warrant ofďŹ cers two; one for ďŹ eldgrade ofďŹ cers as well as chief warrant ofďŹ cers three through ďŹ ve; and one for “strategic leaders,â€? which includes colonels and brigadier generals. The Army will also implement a rater proďŹ le for the company and ďŹ eld-grade ofďŹ cer plates, emphasize recommendations for future operational and career broadening opportunities on the ďŹ eld grade plate, redeďŹ ne the senior-rater box check, and limit the use of intermediate raters to special branches and dual-supervision situations. Gone from the OER will be the “outstanding performance, must promote,â€? “satisfactory performance, promoteâ€? and “unsatisfactory performance, do not promoteâ€? boxes. Instead, raters will now choose from “excels,â€? “proďŹ cient,â€? “capableâ€? and “unsatisfactory,â€? Mustion said. The online tool that will allow ofďŹ cers to rate other ofďŹ cers will limit the number of “excelsâ€? ratings they can offer a particular grade to less than 50 percent. During an ofďŹ cer’s career, the system will ensure the rater rates less than 50 percent of captains, for instance, as “excels.â€? Such information about a rater’s rating history will be part of his or her “rater proďŹ le.â€? Right now, raters do not have a “rater proďŹ le,â€? while senior raters do.

Photo by Master Sgt. Michael Chann

By December, ofďŹ cers will be rated under ofďŹ cer evaluation report system – one that is designed to both strengthen rater accountability and reect current Army leadership doctrine. Army ofďŹ cials say the new OER will include more writing and less box-checking.

“It reverts back to a narrative description, similar to what we have today, except it is a documentation of performance in line with the attributes and competencies. What it reects are those things that our ďŹ eld grade ofďŹ cers and warrant ofďŹ cers should be able to accomplish.â€? — Maj. Gen. Rick Mustion commander, Army Human Resources For senior raters, the “above center of mass,â€? “center of mass,â€? “below center of mass, retainâ€? and “below center of mass, do not retainâ€? blocks will be replaced with “most qualiďŹ ed,â€? “highly qualiďŹ ed,â€? “qualiďŹ edâ€? and “not qualiďŹ edâ€? check boxes. With those ratings, a senior rater will also be limited to less than 50 percent of rated ofďŹ cers being marked “most qualiďŹ ed.â€?

Mustion said the Army has no intention of restarting senior rater proďŹ les with the change to the new system. The “massâ€?based ratings will transition to the new “qualiďŹ edâ€?-based ratings. For company grade ofďŹ cers, what Mustion calls the “Rubik’s Cube of attributes and competenciesâ€? will also disappear. The current DA Form 67-9, included about 16 “yesâ€? or “noâ€? check boxes for a rater to answer an array of questions about an ofďŹ cer’s mental, physical and emotional characteristics, their conceptual, interpersonal, technical and tactical skills, and, among other things, their ability to communicate, make a decision or develop their subordinates. In place of that matrix of yes and no check boxes, raters will instead evaluate an ofďŹ cer in six distinct areas – and it won’t be multiple choice to complete the section. “What our raters will do is write three to four sentences, documenting the ofďŹ cer’s performance, not potential, in line with each of the attributes and competencies,â€? Mustion said. Raters will be asked

There will also now be three separate ofďŹ cer evaluation report forms based on grade.Those three “grade platesâ€? include one for companygrade ofďŹ cers, warrant ofďŹ cers and chief warrant ofďŹ cers two; one for ďŹ eld-grade ofďŹ cers as well as chief warrant ofďŹ cers three through ďŹ ve; and one for “strategic leaders,â€? which includes colonels and brigadier generals.

Career Broadening Akey part of the new OER system will be to ask raters to make determinations about what an ofďŹ cer is capable of, and what suggestions there might be for how the ofďŹ cer can be better developed – both for his or her sake, and for the sake of the Army. Mustion said the Army is asking leaders to identify future and broadening assignments for ofďŹ cers who are rated. “In our Army we have a lot of requirements that are outside the operational Army,â€? he said. “We have opportunities that range from fellowships here in the [Pentagon] to teaching at ROTC, to the operations controllers at our National Training Center to joint staff positions – which are very important to building ofďŹ cers who can operate at the strategic level – and that’s the construct of broadening.â€?

Preparing for the new OER The new OER system will start Dec. 1, 2013. All ratings that take place before that date will use the old system. Ratings with THRU dates after that date will use the new system. Mustion said there will be no close-out reports required before switching to the new system. To prepare ofďŹ cers for the new OER system, Mustion said the Army will deploy mobile training teams this autumn. Additionally, he said the new version of Army Regulation 623-3, which explains the OER process, will be available 30 days before implementation of the new system. The regulation should be available from Army publishing sometime in November.

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:RPHQ¶V +LVWRU\ µ:DUULRU &RPSHWLWLRQ¶ FKDOOHQJHV $LUPHQ By 2nd Lt. Brooke E. Betit 633RD AIR BASE WING PUBLIC AFFAIRS

More than 80 Airmen gathered at the Shellbank Fitness Center track to participate in the Women’s History Month Warrior Challenge, March 29. The Warrior Challenge was sponsored by the Langley Equal Opportunity Office as a way to highlight the Women’s History Month observance in a unique way by fostering camaraderie in a competitive environment. “I wanted to do an event that would represent the struggle of the women being honored,” said 2nd Lt. Tonya Franklin, 633rd Comptroller Squadron finance officer, who organized an obstacle course for the event. “The intent was that participants could take the time to realize that this event was challenging, but it was also a challenge for the women who broke barriers in the areas of science, technology, engineering and math as well.” The challenge was open to both men and women, with 21 teams participating. Ten obstacle course events awaited

these determined Airmen, ranging from flipping gigantic tires to answering questions about exceptional women in the Air Force. Many were eager to take on the obstacles and support Women’s History. “I wanted to represent my squadron and show what we can do,” said Airman First Class Gennifer Anderson, a Langley Airman who participated in the event. “Our team came out here after working on night shift, and we were ready to go.” According to Senior Master Sgt. Sonya Hildebrand, Langley EO superintendent, the event not only honored Women’s History Month, it also presented a unique opportunity for units all over the base to come together. The broad sampling included teams from force support, logistics and intelligence, bringing the separate missions and environments of Langley together. “People got together in the spirit of competition, but it’s also a chance to learn about one another,” she said. “The Air Force is made up of a very diverse team of people and events like these help to break down stereotypes. That’s what makes our Air Force strong.”

Photo by Senior Airman Kayla Newman

U.S. Air ForceTech. Sgt. MelanieThermidor, 633d Air Base Wing equal opportunity specialist, competes in the pull-up event at theWomen’s History MonthWarrior Challenge at Langley Air Force Base, March 29.There were ten events set up at the challenge, ranging from physically demanding obstacles to academic challenges. INSURANCE • SURVIVOR ASSISTANCE

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FeatureStory

)URP WKH JURXQG XS &OLPELQJ WR WKH WRS RI WKH ZRUOG By Sachel Seabrook AIR COMBAT COMMAND PUBLIC AFFAIRS

Six continents. Seven years. More than 100,000 feet climbed and next month, the USAF 7 Summits Challenge team is setting out to climb to the top of the world. At 29,035 ft., Mount Everest is the highest peak on Earth. If successful, six Airmen will become the first American military team to reach the summit of Mount Everest and the first team of military Service members from any nation to reach all seven summits. Airmen who are making the trek to Everest are stationed all across the country, including two from Headquarters Air Combat Command. “For me, it’s not about making history,” said Capt. Kyle “Husky” Martin. “It’s about proudly representing something larger than me.” Nicknamed Husky for sleeping out in the snow multiple times, Martin first started climbing 10 years ago. He heard about the Air Force 7 Summit challenge when he joined the United States Air Force Academy mountaineering club as a young cadet. Now a T-38 pilot and division chief for the 1st Operations Group, the Manhat-

tan, Kan., native has climbed many mountains, including Ama Dablam, a mountain in the Himalayan range of eastern Nepal relatively close to Mount Everest. “Ama Dablam is the climb I’m most proud of,” he said excitingly. “It’s rock climbing, ice climbing and really, really exposed to base camp, which is 4,000 ft. below you.” Led by Maj. Rob Marshall, a 34-yearold Special Operations pilot who has successfully conquered more than 30 peaks, the USAF 7 Summits Challenge team is dedicated to one thing: honoring fallen comrades by carrying the American and Air Force flags to the highest point on each continent. Those fallen comrades include several of Marshall’s friends who were killed when an Air Force MC-130, call sign Wrath 11, crashed in the Albanian mountains in 2005. Two months later, tragedy struck again when two more of Marshall’s friends, Captains Derek Angel and Jeremy Fresques, also died with three other Airmen in a small-plane crash near Diyala, Iraq. SEE CLIMBING PAGE 9

Courtesy photo

U.S. Air Force Capt. Kyle “Husky” Martin trains for rock climbing in Iwate Prefecture, Japan prior to Ama Dablam in 2012. Martin is wrapping up an 18-month training regimen and will join the rest of the USAF 7 Summits Challenge Team in Nepal as they prepare to climb Mount Everest next month. BELOW: Members of the USAF 7 Summits ChallengeTeam hold the American and Air Force flags at of Antarctica’s highest mountain, Mount Vinson, in 2010. The team of Airmen will attempt to climb Mount Everest in April 2013.

“This trip is a great way to highlight the resiliency of the Wounded Warrior. I want Airmen to understand that no matter what their experience or current life position, there is nothing that they cannot overcome.” — Senior Master Sgt. Robert Disney pararescueman and wounded warrior who is ascending to the Everest Base Camp

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U.S. Air Force Capt. Kyle “Husky” Martin gains the ridge of Ama Dablam during a trip to eastern Nepal in 2012.The main peak, which stands at 22,349 feet, is one of the most popular Himalayan Mountain climbs permitted to the public. Martin is an Air Force Academy graduate and now serves as the T-38 division chief for the 1st Operations Group at Langley Air Force Base. Courtesy photo

CLIMBING FROM PAGE 8 “Remember walking around a track to raise money for your school or charity?” Marshall asked. “Well, I decided to take it vertical.” For every thousand feet the team climbs, they ask people to donate towards the college education of their fallen comrade’s children. In addition to Captain Martin, the Everest team includes: ■ Maj. Rob Marshall, 34, a CV-22 pilot from Mercer Island, Wash., stationed in Amarillo,Tex. ■ Capt. Andrew Ackles, 29, a TH-1N instructor pilot from Ashland, Ore., stationed at Fort Rucker, Ala. ■ Capt. Marshall Klitzke, 30, a KC-135R pilot from Lemmon, S.D., currently an instructor pilot at the Air Force Academy in Colorado Springs, Colo. ■ Capt. Colin Merrin, 28, a GPS satellite operations mission commander from Santee, Calif., stationed at Peterson Air Force Base, Colo. ■ Staff Sgt. Nick Gibson, 36, a reserve pararescueman and physician-assistant student from Gulf Breeze, Fla., stationed at Patrick Air Force Base, Fla. “This trip is a great way to highlight the resiliency of the Wounded Warrior,” said Senior Master Sgt. Robert Disney, a pararescueman and wounded warrior who is ascending to the Everest Base Camp. “I want Airmen to understand that no matter what their experience or current life position, there is nothing that they cannot overcome.” Along with Disney, two other wounded warriors will be going to the base camp: ■ Capt. Augustin “Gus” Viani, 28, a Combat Rescue officer stationed at DavisMonthan Air Force Base, Ariz.

■ Master Sgt. Gino (last name and details withheld for operational security) Though the team is not sponsored by the Air Force, Disney credits his Air Force training for preparing him for this very moment. “For a PJ, climbing or mountaineering is just another way of getting to work,” he said. “Our Operational Risk Management training prepares us to weigh the risk-toreward ratios of our choices and to make life-and-death decisions on the fly.” Those risk-management skills, something Husky hopes Airmen pay attention to on and off duty, has contributed to the team’s unblemished history of safety and success. With the team being stationed all over the country, training together becomes a challenge. However, Husky managed to get creative when it came to preparing himself for the ultimate climb. “Since I don’t have mountains here in Hampton Roads, I’ll go out to the beaches,” the captain said. “My daughter is my training partner. She’ll add 20 pounds to the baby backpack and we’ll hike through the deep sand in my Everest boots. We look pretty absurd, but she loves to go outside.” Disney also credits his wife Tess for helping him prepare for this moment. With her support, he has gotten back into climbing shape in just two months. With both men days away from leaving, Disney and Husky both hope to surpass their own limitations and encourage other Airmen do the same. “Oh, and come back with all of my toes,” Husky adds. “I definitely want to come back with all of my toes.” To learn more about this historic adventure, you can check out their website, http://www.usaf7summits.com, like them on Facebook or follow them on Twitter.

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• The Peninsula Warrior - Air Force

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APRIL 5, 2013

-%/( EULQJV DZDUHQHVV GXULQJ 6$$0 By Airman 1st Class Kimberly Nagle 633 AIR BASE WING PUBLIC AFFAIRS

With the ongoing problem of sexual violence present in all branches of the military, it’s important for Service members to take measures to prevent such acts. In the United States, the month of April has been designated as Sexual Assault Awareness Month. Joint Base Langley-Eustis agencies are arranging events as part of the SAAM campaign to help bring awareness to sexual violence. “We take this opportunity to call attention to sexual violence and band together to rebuke those who violate the trust and sanctity of our communities,” said Bernadette Hardy, Langley Sexual Assault Prevention and Response coordinator. “We also take this time to show solidarity and support to the victims of these horrible acts.” In fiscal year 2011, the Department of Defense reported more than 3,100 in-

“We take this opportunity to call attention to sexual violence and band together to rebuke those who violate the trust and sanctity of our communities. We also take this time to show solidarity and support to the victims of these horrible acts.” — Bernadette Hardy Langley Sexual Assault Prevention and Response coordinator cidents of sexual assault, said Megan Alpert, 733rd Mission Support Group installation sexual assault victim advocate. “Becoming more aware of sexual violence begins an important conversation about the attitudes and underpinnings which continue to allow sexual assault to occur not only in our military,

but also within our society as a whole,” said Alpert. “Supporting SAAM events is just the first step in the fight against sexual assault. Our events aim to educate and engage the community in discussing and preventing sexual violence in the future and treating victims with dignity, fairness and respect.” In addition to the impact sexual assault has on victims, one of the most crucial repercussions of sexual assault is the effect it has on the military mission, said Hardy. “Sexual violence affects the overall mission by dividing the force,” said Hardy. “Violence changes not only the victim, it changes all involved [in the incident].” In order to combat sexual violence through awareness, JBLE sexual assault prevention professionals have planned a number of events, including Walk a Mile in Her Shoes, a 5k Fun Run/Walk and poetry slam. SEE SAAM PAGE 11

Photo by Tech. Sgt. April Wickes

Megan Alpert (left), 733rd Mission Support Group installation sexual assault victim advocate, and U.S. Army Master Sgt. Kevin Parker, U.S. Army Training and Doctrine Command installation sexual assault response coordinator, hang ribbons to show support of Sexual Assault Awareness Month at Fort Eustis, April 1.

• The Peninsula Warrior - Air Force

+DJHO LVVXHV PHVVDJH RQ VH[XDO DVVDXOW DZDUHQHVV SUHYHQWLRQ AMERICAN FORCES PRESS SERVICE

Defense Secretary Chuck Hagel issued a message April 2 to all members of the Defense Department, emphasizing that stopping sexual assault and supporting victims is everyone’s responsibility. Here is the text of the secretary’s message: This month, the Department of Defense observes Sexual Assault Awareness and Prevention Month with the theme “We own it ‌ we’ll solve it ‌ together.â€? Sexual Assault Awareness and Prevention Month is an opportunity for the entire DoD community – Service members, civilians, members of our families and leaders at every level – to underscore our commitment to eliminating the crime of sexual assault, supporting victims

SAAM FROM PAGE 10 “Community members get to learn [about sexual assault] by talking with victim advocates, learn how to protect themselves via personal safety/self-defense classes and show support in rallies and marches on and off base,� said Hardy. “Our outreach events are designed to bring awareness, get peo-

and intervening when appropriate to help stop unsafe behavior. Together, we must work every day to instill a climate that does not tolerate or ignore sexist behavior, sexual harassment or sexual assault. These have no place in the United States military and violate everything we stand for and the values we defend. Creating a culture free of the scourge of sexual assault requires establishing an environment where dignity and respect is afforded to all, and where diversity is celebrated as one of our greatest assets as a force. We are strong because of our values of service, sacriďŹ ce and loyalty – and doing what is right. We watch out for each other and respect each other. By drawing on these strengths, we can and we must stop sexual assault within our ranks. Remember, we own it ‌ we’ll solve it ‌ together.

ple talking and bring the occurrence of such life-altering events out from the shadows.� While these events help bring community awareness, Hardy said the responsibility to prevent sexual violence is ultimately in everyone’s hands. “Prevention is everyone’s duty,� said Hardy. “It takes us all to make certain that our community is a safe and good place to be.�

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Fort Eustis • April 10 – Walk a Mile in Her Shoes at the Fort Eustis Exchange. • April 19 – 5K Run/Walk, hosted by the 93rd Signal Brigade. • April 20 – SHARP Madness 3-on-3 Basketball Tournament from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. in Anderson Field House. • April 25 – Information table at the Fort Eustis Club during lunch hours. • April 30 – Sexual Assault Awareness Capstone Event at 10 a.m. in Jacobs Theater. Langley Air Force Base • April 1, 15, 22 & 29 – Women’s Personal Safety Classes, 4 to 5 p.m. in the Shellbank Fitness Center. • April 1, 8, 15, 22 & 29 – Chief Master Sgt. Trae King, 633rd Air Base Wing command chief master sergeant, will speak at “Meet Your Victim Advocateâ€? from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Langley Commissary. • April 4, 11, 18 & 25 – “Meet Your Victim Advocateâ€? from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Langley Exchange. • April 11 – Men’s Personal Safety Class from 4 to 5 p.m. in the ACC Fitness Center • April 13 – Walk A Mile in her Shoes at 10 a.m. at the Peninsula Town Center (community outreach collaboration). • April 18 – Take back the Night from 6 to 8 p.m. in City Center (community outreach collaboration). • April 26 – STAR Road Rally from 7:30 a.m. to noon at the JBLE Memorial Park. • April 26 – Poetry Slam at 1 p.m. at the JBLE Memorial Park.

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• The Peninsula Warrior - Air Force

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APRIL 5, 2013

APRIL 5, 2013

• The Peninsula Warrior - Air Force

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www.peninsulawarrior.com

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7R KRQRU ZLWK GLJJQLW\ 86$)+* YLVLWV /DQJOH\ By Airman 1st Class Victoria Taylor 633RD AIR BASE WING PUBLIC AFFAIRS

Photos by Airman 1st Class Victoria H. Taylor

The U.S. Air Force Honor Guard Drill Team performs precise movements during a recruitment visit at Langley Air Force Base, March 29.The mission of the Air Force Honor Guard is to represent Airmen to the American public and the world. BELOW: The U.S. Air Force Honor Guard Drill Team performs in front of a crowd at Langley Air Force Base. The Drill Team promotes the Air Force mission by showcasing drill performances at public and military venues to recruit, retain and inspire Airmen.

With crisp precision and near-robotic cadence, six Airmen represented the U.S Air Force Honor Guard in a drill demonstration at Langley Air Force Base, Va., March 29. Making numerous stops on different Air Force bases around the world as part of their recruitment tour, the USAFHG stopped at Langley not only to look for Airmen who want to join the challenging, yet rewarding experience of Air Force Honor Guard, but also to represent their team to the public. “We are the traveling department of the U.S. Air Force Honor Guard,” said Senior Airman Andrew Winders, USAFHG drill team trainer. “We are here at Langley to inform people about Honor Guard in hopes to add valued members to support our mission.” One way the USAFHG team hoped to achieve this was by visiting with the Langley Honor Guard prior to the drill demonstration. “I had never thought about being an Air Force Honor Guardsman before today,” said Airman 1st Class Mellissa Darwin, ceremonial guardsman for the Langley Hon-

“I think it’s vital to the health of the USAFHG to do these recruiting efforts. It inspirres the rest of the Airmen in the Air Force to take pride and continue seerving their country.” — Staff Sgt. Justin Lemmon USAFHG drill team supervisor m definitely interested in or Guard. “Now, I’m applying for this speecial duty.” is to ensure a The vision of the USAFHG U ho promote the mission, legacy of Airmen wh protect the standardss, perfect the image and preserve the heritagee of the Air Force. “I think it’s vitall to the health of the USAFHG to do theese recruiting efforts,” n Lemmon, USAFHG said Staff Sgt. Justin or. “It inspires the rest drill team superviso of the Airmen in the Air Force to take pride ng their country.” and continue servin Although the Ameerican public and military personnel may only see the drill team, nt USAFHG flights that there are five differen nt ceremonies in Washalso perform differen ington D.C.: the collors, pallbearers, firing d support flight. party, drill team and ditions they display in To honor the trad he USAFHG team has their ceremonies, th

an outreach flight that visits base honor guard teams. “To ensure conformity across the board, the USAFHG also has a separate flight that teaches base-level honor guards throughout the Air Force,” said Winders. While many of their traditions are found in regulations, drill team maneuvers are, by contrast, not transcribed in a manual. Instead, they are passed down from one generation of theAFHG Drill Team to the next, showing the responsibility and dedication that these men and women must go through to become a part of the vision that is the USAFHG. For more information on the USAFHG, visit www.honorguard.af.mil. For Airmen wishing to become a part of Langley’s Base Honor Guard, contact Tech Sgt. Christopher Hollingsworth at (757) 764-7181.

Photo by Airman 1st Class Kimberly Nagle

Airmen from the LangleyAir Force Base Honor Guard fold the ceremonial flag in front of the U.S. Air Force Honor Guard DrillTeam during a recruiting visit to Langley Air Force Base, March 29.The DrillTeam promotes the mission by showcasing drill performances at public and military venues to recruit, retain and inspire.

Photo by Airman 1st Class Victoria H. Taylor

U.S. Air Force Senior Airman Jimmy Pryor, U.S. Air Force Honor Guard Drill Team member, performs during a recruitment visit. The Drill Team performance featured professionally choreographed sequence maneuvers, tosses and complex weapon exchanges.

Photo by Airman 1st Class Victoria H. Taylor

U.S. Air Force Staff Sgt. Justin Lemmon, U.S. Air Force Honor Guard Drill Team supervisor, waits for the start of the performance. Preserving the Air Force heritage as the face of the Air Force, the Drill Team is renowned for their precision.

Photo by Staff Sgt. Jeff Nevison

Senior Airman Billy Degraffenreid (right), a member of the U.S. Air Force Honor Guard Drill Team, gives instructions to members of the base honor guard at Langley Air Force Base, March 29.The drill team came to coach Langley Honor Guard members, as well as to perform a demonstration at the Air Combat Command Fitness Center to recruit Airmen for the drill team.

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• The Peninsula Warrior - Air Force

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APRIL 5, 2013

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A patient at Langley Air Force Base lies still so a 633rd Medical Group medical technician can apply diodes to his body prior to an echocardiogram March 26. In addition to viewing a Doppler-enhanced ultrasound, the echocardiogram also allows medical personnel to listen to the patient’s heartbeat.

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The 11-ounce human heart pumps 2,000 gallons of blood across 60,000 miles of blood vessels every day. With such a vital, strenuous cycle to uphold, there is no question as to why Langley Air Force Base, Va., has a dedicated cardiology clinic on hand to help the Langley hearts with their labors of love. The cardiology clinic is a recent addition to U.S. Air Force Hospital Langley, having been established late last year. With the new addition of the clinic, a member of the Langley community can receive a diagnosis of possible heart complications right next door. “With our new capabilities, we serve a lot more people,” said Tech. Sgt. Renee Reidy, 633rd Medical Group cardiology lab noncommissioned officer in charge. “We can do ultrasounds, echocardiograms, electrocardiograms, stress testing and more.” The cardiology clinic provides so many services because of the complex processes within the heart. If a patient comes in with suspected heart concerns, one of the first steps for diagnosis comes in the form of an electrocardiogram, or EKG. An EKG measures the electronic impulses from the heart and interprets them in a way that allows a doctor or technician to gauge if a heart is irregular.

“The EKG is really the first line of defense,” said Reidy. “We see roughly 10 to 15 patients a day for an EKG.” Patients with other problems, or those who have irregular EKG reports, may qualify for an echocardiogram or even stress testing. “An echocardiogram is very similar to an ultrasound that pregnant women might receive,” said Reidy. “In addition to the ultrasound, however, there is a Doppler capability that allows us a more accurate assessment of blood flow and other vitals.” Essentially, an echo reading gives technicians and doctors a window to the heart, providing them with real-time data to use in a diagnosis. With the combined capability of sound, professionals can detect issues that may be difficult to pick up visually. Having this data is paramount to successfully diagnose a patient with an acute problem that may cause problems down the road. After interpreting data from the echocardiogram, patients may undergo stress testing to gather more accurate information on their condition. “Stress testing is when we put patients through some sort of cardio-intensive exercise and begin an echocardiogram,” said Reidy. “This way we can determine if the heart is healthy at various levels of activity.” SEE CARDIOLOGY PAGE 15

APRIL 5, 2013

• The Peninsula Warrior - Air Force

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Not forgotten: Langley Airman refurbishes worn 9/11 memorial By Senior Airman Joel Mease

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Chipped away and neglected, a barrier painted as a memorial for 9/11 has the words, “Not Forgottenâ€? emblazoned on it just outside the Coalition Compound Theater where hundreds to thousands of people walk by it every day. After noticing the mural became more of an eyesore than a memorial, a professional organization decided to do something about it. “The Rising 6 took sponsorship of the 9/11 memorial barrier because it symbolizes the reason we are in the U.S. Central Command area of responsibility,â€? said Tech. Sgt. Daniel Hartwell, Rising 6 president. “That time should never be forgotten.â€? The Rising 6 is an organization for Service members in the enlisted ranks of E-1 through E-6. With a group of Airmen, Sailors, Soldiers and Marines who put service above self, it didn’t take long to get volunteers. “We received an overwhelming response from individuals wanting to volunteer to do the restoration project,â€? Hartwell said. “We had them submit samples of their artwork and made our selections from there.â€? Senior Airman Adrianna Recine’s love for art drew her to the project. “I volunteered to paint the 9/11 wall to show those who sacriďŹ ced their lives were not forgotten,â€? said Recine, a laboratory technician with the 379th Expeditionary Medical Group, deployed from the 633rd Medical Support Squadron at Joint Base Langley-Eustis,

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Senior Airman Adrianna Recine, 379th Expeditionary Medical Group laboratory technician, volunteers her time to refurbish the installation’s 9/11 barrier memorial, March 21. Recine said she volunteered to paint the 9/11 wall to show those who sacriďŹ ced their lives were not forgotten. Recine is deployed from the 633rd Medical Support Squadron at Joint Base Langley-Eustis.

Va. “The original painting had worn away with time and displayed the words ‘Not Forgotten,’ but the peeling paint made a different statement. I wanted to contribute in the best way I knew how – my passion, painting.� While the original goal was to restore the memorial, the lack of paint left on the memorial and the severe cracking of the remaining paint would require a redesign. Recine said her goal was to respect the previous artist, but add her own addition to the memorial. “I have always done my own artwork and have never done a restoration before,� Recine said. “Although I

CARDIOLOGY FROM PAGE 14 Although the cardiology department has the tools to diagnose patients and help treat some problems, sometimes a patient requires special treatment or surgery not available at Langley. For Maj. Joshua Durham, 633rd Medical Group cardiologist, this dilemma doesn’t stop him from his commitment to patient care. “I go down to [Naval Medical Center Portsmouth] when one of my patients needs additional treatment,� said Dur-

prefer creating my own piece with my own ideas, the request was to make it look like the original, but I was able to make my painting a little more realistic than the design before.� The art on the memorial is expected to be completed soon, but Recine said she hopes to put her mark on other works of art around the base before her deployment ends. She said this art project stands out from the rest. “I am so honored to have had this amazing opportunity,� Recine said. “May God bless the men and women and know that they were certainly ‘Not Forgotten’ here.�

ham. “It is important that they have continuity of care, especially when they may undergo a serious surgery.â€? Although continuity of care is important to Durham, he believes the main mission of troop readiness supersedes all. “Being able to keep troops ready to deploy means a lot to me,â€? said Durham. “It is rewarding to see them reassured and ďŹ t to ďŹ ght.â€? With such specialized and knowledgeable Airmen manning the cardiology clinic, it is clear patients at Langley will always be in cardiac “at-rest.â€?

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• The Peninsula Warrior - Air Force

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APRIL 5, 2013

5HWURJUDGH DQG UHGHSOR\PHQW )URP WKH 6ROGLHUV¶ SHUVSHFWLYH By Sgt. V. Michelle Woods TF DURABLE PAO

Convoy escort teams provide security and help lead the way for retrograde and redeployment operations While standing on the back of a MaxxPro mine-resistant, ambush-protected (MRAP) vehicle, convoy escort team commander, U.S. Army Staff Sgt. Steven Webb, watches as his CET, the “Dark Side,” a mixed group of experienced combat veterans and first-time deployers with the 359th Inland Cargo Transfer Company, finish preparing their trucks for a mission to Forward Operating Base Fenty, Afghanistan, Feb. 22. Although the company is part of the 7th Sustainment Brigade stationed at Fort Eustis, Va., with a 90-day notice they trained to deploy to Bagram Airfield where they serve under the 157th Combat Sus. Support Battalion, Task Force Durable. The company commander, Capt. Neil Stevenson, walks in the 39 degree Fahrenheit drizzling rain to each truck, observing as the Soldiers conduct communications checks, mount their weapons and secure their gear in the miserable weather conditions. He bears the weight of ensuring he brings each Soldier back home to their husbands, wives, parents, sons and daughters. Following a security brief, the commander bows his head with the rest of the CET as the 157th CSSB chaplain offers a prayer for the Soldiers of Dark Side. These Soldiers, who have had their boots on ground for two months, don their tactical gear weighing up to 75 pounds and climb into their up-armored vehicles. After spending hours preparing for their mission, they pull up to the gate to exit Bagram Airfield when they get the word from their command: mission cancelled due to bad weather. This is the result known all too well to those responsible for the ground work behind retrograde and redeployment operations in Afghanistan. The part of retrograde and redeployment least covered by the media is where the Dark Side CET, and thousands of other Service members, start the process of moving equipment. It is a long and dangerous task for these Army truck drivers, cargo specialists and watercraft engineers

The part of retrograde and redeployment least covered by the media is where the Dark Side CET, and thousands of other Service members, start the process of moving equipment. It is a long and dangerous task for these Army truck drivers, cargo specialists and watercraft engineers who trained and deployed as gunners and security escorts.

who trained and deployed as gunners and security escorts. The process for retrograde is recognized as the movement of equipment and materiel, piece by piece, from a forward location to a reset program or to another directed area of operations to replenish unit stocks, or to satisfy stock requirements. For the Dark Side CET, retrograde means providing security for military and Afghan vehicles carrying cargo and ensuring the Soldiers and cargo reach their final destination safely. Steven Webb, a 16-year veteran serving on his sixth deployment, tells his team to go back to their rooms and rest until the mission is back on. The following day the CET patiently goes through the same tedious process of preparing their gun trucks, as well as their minds, against the potential threats that loom outside the barbed-wire and concrete barriers of Bagram Air Field. Their vigilance peaks as they set out for the five-hour drive to FOB Fenty. Most of the Soldiers are woken up around 7 a.m. the following morning by the sound of a vehicle-borne improvised explosive device, also known as a car bomb, which was detonated in the nearby city of Jalalabad. All but a few of the Dark Side CET go about their day as usual. While his Soldiers rest, get haircuts and shop the local bazaar, Steven Webb grabs last-minute snacks for his troops and begins contacting his higher headquarters for updates on the VBIED attack, overall threat level, weather and cargo trucks. The Dark Side arrives at their trucks at noon and prepare their MaxxPros to hit the road by 2 p.m. The mission is interrupted when several more cargo trucks, referred to as “NAT trucks” (National Afghan Trucks) by the Soldiers, are added to the convoy. The NAT trucks are owned and driven by Afghan workers who are hired through a

local contractor, and have to be fueled, loaded with cargo and fully prepared for the trip from FOB Fenty to Bagram Air Field. The CET now has no estimated departure time and is on standby until the NAT trucks are ready to go. Steven Webb tells his mission commander, Sgt. Diana Webb, to tell the Soldiers to try and get some rest for now. “We never get to stay on the same schedule,” said Steven Webb. “Sometimes we’ll leave in the morning, sometimes we’ll leave in the evening. It’s all based on different things like weather and the threat level.” Sergeant Diana Webb, a mother of one (who is not related to the CET commander), yells out to the CET to get some rest in their trucks. Despite the noise of the firing range a few hundred feet away and the occasional helicopters and airplanes coming and going, the Soldiers try to rest in any place they can find some comfort. Sergeant Diana Webb, a seven-year veteran who has deployed twice before, arranges for the Soldiers to get food and quickly return to the staging area where they will wait for several more hours, only to be told the mission is on hold until the next day. The Dark Side takes down their mounted weapons and carries their bags back to the sleeping area. The only part of these missions that seems consistent is the inconsistency. The next day, the CET arrives at the staging area at 8 a.m. and goes through the same exact process as the day before. This time, the mission is only delayed an hour. Despite all the delays and interruptions, Steven Webb remembers why their job is critical. “I feel our mission is very important,” he said. “We need to have the safe transfer of all this equipment as the drawdown continues. If all the equipment gets back safely, that’s money the military is going to save.” Once the convoy is on the road, the Sol-

Photo by Sgt. V. Michelle Woods

Spc. Koffi Assila, a cargo specialist and native of Africa, mounts the .50-caliber machine gun prior to the start of a mission from Bagram Air Field to Forward Operating Base Fenty. His job requires him to maintain constant eyesight on the road, the debris and trash, the caves in the mountains and the rooftops of houses.

diers have the grueling task of getting a 30-vehicle convoy through downtown Jalalabad. Gunners remain vigilant and watch the roofs for any suspicious activity, drivers watch the hundreds of vehicles and pedestrians weaving in and out of traffic, and the truck commanders set their eyes on everything. Truck commanders are the leaders in the trucks and are responsible for keeping track of the convoy vehicles, watching for VBIEDs, looking for threats from the rooftops and watching for children smaller than the truck tires running into the road. In a sea of civilians and vehicles, the threat of terrorists looming in the crowd is on everyone’s minds. The importance of getting the equipment to its destination safely is a top priority for Steven Webb, however he said his Soldiers’ safety trumps everything else. “Of course I have to make sure my Soldiers get there safely,” said the Pennsylvania native who joined when he was 18 years old. “I mean, that is my number one priority. Soldiers can’t be replaced; equipment can be.” SEE RETROGRADE PAGE 17

APRIL 5, 2013

• The Peninsula Warrior - Air Force

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VBS2 gives Soldiers skills to survive, succeed By Airman 1st Class R. Alex Durbin 633RD AIR BASE WING PUBLIC AFFAIRS

Players were hunched in front of computer screens, intently moving their military uniform-clad avatars to capture objectives and neutralize enemy forces with swift keystrokes and mouse clicks. Muffled gunfire could be heard through the headsets each player wore, masked only by occasional verbal instructions and warnings into microphones. At first sight, it seems these “players” are enjoying the latest first-person shooter video game. However, these gamers are U.S. Army Soldiers in combat training using Virtual Battle Space 2, a high-tech simulator designed to teach the vital skills to survive and succeed on the battlefield. VBS2 is a fully-interactive training system that provides a virtual environment suitable for a wide range of military training. It offers simulated environments and actual topography for practical exercises in leadership and organizational skills required to successfully execute unit missions. “The goal of simulators is to seamlessly merge the virtual, constructed and live environments into a viable training experience,” said Keith Jones, Army Support Activity Training Division simulations branch manager. “VBS2 allows Service members to use customizable missions to create a viable teaching platform, while increasing confidence and knowledge.” VBS2 was designed for federal, state and local government agencies, and is suitable for training small teams in urban tactics and combined-arms operations in lethal and non-lethal environments. Soldiers can split into two rival teams -OPFOR and BLUEFOR -- to accomplish a wide variety of mission objectives while

“The goal of simulators is to seamlessly merge the virtual, constructed and live environments into a viable training experience. VBS2 allows Service members to use customizable missions to create a viable teaching platform, while increasing confidence and knowledge.” — Keith Jones Army Support Activity Training Division simulations branch manager

Photo by Airman 1st Class R. Alex Durbin

A Soldier aims at a target while using theVirtual Battle Space 2 computer simulator at Fort Eustis, March 11.VBS2 is a fully interactive training system that provides a virtual environment suitable for a wide range of military training.

simultaneously practicing teamwork and communication skills. The teams can review the mission with after-action reports, summaries and replays to learn from their mistakes and successes. Military simulations have a long history, dating back as far as 25 B.C., with the rudimentary use of stones and drawings to review battle tactics. Over the course of history, emerging technology paved the way for more realistic simulations. The Department of Defense introduced modern simulators as a training capability to customize exact needs of Service members while saving money, training space and time. “Modern simulators give Service members a safe, flexible way to learn skills they wouldn’t otherwise have the opportuni-

RETROGRADE FROM PAGE 16 After four blown tires on the NAT trucks and nine hours into the mission, the gunner, Spc. Koffi Assila, a cargo specialist and native of Africa, wipes his eyes. His body runs like a machine. He maintains constant eyesight on the road, the debris and trash, the caves in the mountains and the rooftops of houses. He reaches for a drink at the bottom of his feet but doesn’t take his eyes away from the area he is responsible for securing. He barely speaks except to say “I’m fine,” when Steven Webb checks on him.

ty to practice first-hand,” said Jones. “They give Soldiers a sense of familiarity in potentially life-saving skills before their boots hit ground in a deployed environment.” In a constantly changing, technologydriven world, simulators are always evolving and expanding to offer the most realistic and complete training experience. As a testament to this, an updated version of the simulator, VBS2 v2.0, was released March 6. VBS2 v2.0 offers a major software update and features enhanced graphics, larger terrain sizes, multi-core computer support, terrain modification, improved wounding and medical models, sandstorm creation, adjustment of Soldier BMI and height, vehicle-on-vehicle loading, towing enhancements, improved AI, a script debugger, and scuba and sky div-

Ten hours into the mission, vehicle and pedestrian traffic picks up again. The truck driver, Spc. Brendan Geyer, a Virginia native, turns on a siren to help clear up traffic and make the pedestrians aware of the convoy. This is Geyer’s first deployment, but he hardly lacks experience at this point. In the short time he’s been deployed, he has accumulated hundreds of miles on the Afghan roads battling traffic, animals, pedestrians, complacency and at times, sheer exhaustion. After nearly 11 hours and about 110 miles through winding, mountainous roads, the Bagram Air Field gate comes into site. The Dark Side escorts all of the NAT trucks and

ing, all to offer the most comprehensive, realistic training experience possible. Army Support Activity now uses the updated version of VBS2 to accurately recreate elements such as fire-control systems, physics and weapon ballistics, using a “high-fidelity virtual sandbox” where Soldiers can conduct individual or collective training under the watchful eyes of trained instructors. The simulator gives the instructors the capability to create new scenarios and then engage the simulation from multiple viewpoints. The simulator’s squad-management system enables participants to issue orders to squad members, making it tailored to meet the individual needs of military, law enforcement, homeland defense, loadmaster and first-responder training environments. “In the environments our Service members find themselves in, it’s important they are equipped with more than gear,” said Jones. “This simulator gives Soldiers the skills and knowledge to accomplish their missions – and survive.”

cargo into their respective locations and finally returns to the 359th ICTC motor pool where they store their vehicles. It’s just another mission completed for these Soldiers who come from different backgrounds and different Army jobs. The CET commander knows how important the bigger picture is. “The best part of this deployment is knowing the faster we pull stuff out, the faster other Soldiers get to go home and be back with their families,” said Steven Webb. “That’s what I told my son when he got upset about me deploying. I just told him we’re bringing everybody out so they can be home with their families.”

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LAFBCommunity Eaglewood Golf Course dining schedule The Langley Eaglewood Golf Course will now be open for breakfast from 6:30 to 10 a.m. starting April 1. Lunch hours are from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. daily. Visit www.jbleforcesupport.com for more information.

New Auto Hobby Shop hours The Langley Auto Hobby Shop will now be open on Sundays from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. starting April 7.

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Submit LAFB Community announcements to pw@militarynews.com ■ Royal Hours and Great Vespers: 1:30 p.m. May 3 (Holy Friday); Lamentations Service at 3:30 p.m. ■ Blessing of theWater Service: 10 a.m. May 10 (Friday of the Bright Week) For the Holy Orthodox Sacraments or any other pastoral or spiritual needs, please contact the Langley Chapel (757764-7847) and ask for Rev. Fr. Ioan Dumitrascu. For Sunday (Resurrection) Divine Liturgies, and (Orthros) Matins Service, Orthodox Faithful are encouraged to participate in the local parishes.

The 2013 Air Force Community Assessment Survey Langley Enlisted Spouse’s Club releases April 5. The theme for this year’s survey is “A Strong Community Depends On You.” Past surveys have resulted in new and/or improved programs to support the entire Air Force community. E-mail notifications will be sent to active duty, reservists, guardsmen and civilian employees. Spouses will be sent an invitation postcard. Both the e-mails and postcards will include a link to the online survey. All responses will be kept completely anonymous and confidential. The success of the survey relies on the participation of community members – please complete the survey as soon as possible.

Are you married to an enlisted member and interested in meeting other spouses or making new friends?The Langley Enlisted Spouse’s Club meets at 6 p.m. the firstThursday of every month in the Langley Club, 128 Benedict Ave. For more information, visit http://lescva.org, or http:// www.facebook.com/LangleyESC

New, expecting fathers parenting workshop

Submit your entry before April 15. Poetry Slam readings will begin 1 p.m. on April 26th at the JBLE Memorial Park. All poets who enter will receive a prize. The winning poet will be presented an autographed book titled “B Trae’d” by Chief Master Sgt. Trae King, 633rd Air Base Wing command chief master sergeant, who will read one of her poems at the event. Send your poems or inquiries to Vanessa Williams 7643359 or c.vanessa.williams@langley.af.mil.

SAPR road rally The Sexual Assault Prevention and Response office is hosting a motorcycle road rally at 9 a.m. April 26. All participants must arrive at 7:30 a.m. for registration and safety checks. Participants must RSVP.The event is free of charge. For more information, call Vanessa Williams at 764-3359 or c.vanessa.williams@langley.af.mil.

Wednesday Morning Bible Study

A workshop for new and expecting fathers will be held from 8 a.m. to noon April 11 in the Langley Chapel Annex, classroom two. For more information or to register call 764-2427.

Military Ministries sponsors Morning Bible Study from 6:15 to 7:15 a.m. every Wednesday in the Langley Chapel Annex auditorium. For more information, contact Joe Shirey at 764-5527 or william.shirey.ctr@langley.af.mil, or Chuck Macri at 928-7220 or chuck.macri@militaryministry.org.

Personal safety classes

Hispanic Heritage Month meeting

Budget assistance

April is Sexual Assault Awareness month. In an effort to reduce sexual assaults, the Sexual Assault Prevention and Response office is hosting free, personal safety classes at both the Shellbank and Air Combat Command fitness centers. Women can sign up for the classes held from 4 to 5 p.m. April 1, 15, 22 and 29 at the Shellbank Fitness Center. Men can also sign up for April 11 from 4 to 5 p.m. at the ACC Fitness Center. For more information, or to register, call 764-3359.

The Hispanic Heritage Month planning committee will have its next meeting at 2 p.m. April 17 in the Langley Bowling Alley activities room. For more information, contact Master Sgt. Jose Perez at 764-1735, or the Equal Opportunity office at 764-5878.

The Langley Federal Credit Union is committed to helping its members affected by budget cuts. For information or to discuss financial options, call 827-5328, (800) 8267490 or stop by a branch.

Holocaust Remembrance Day The Holocaust Remembrance Day Commemoration will be held at 1 p.m. April 8 in the static display hangar.There will also be an art and historical display from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. For more information, call Master Sgt. Damaris Dones at 225 6968 or 1st Lt. Lori Seaman at 764-7075.

2013 JBLE Volunteer Salute The Airman and Family Readiness Center will be holding its 2013 Joint Base Langley-Eustis Volunteer Salute from 3 to 4:30 p.m. April 9 at Quesada Hall, 115 Thompson Street. For more information, call 764-3990.

Orthodox Christian Services The Langley Chapel will host the following upcoming services: ■ Divine Liturgy of the Presanctified Gifts: 9:30 a.m. April 12 ■ Great Canon of Saint Andrew: 1 p.m. April 17 ■ Akathist to the Birthgiver of God: 1 p.m. April 19 ■ Holy Unction: 10 a.m. May 1 (Holy Wednesday) ■ Vesperalliturgy of Saint Basil the Great: 10 a.m. May 2 (Holy Thursday); 12 Gospels Service and procession with the Holy Cross at 3:30 p.m.

Co-parenting workshop A four-hour Virginia court-approved child custody and visitation parenting workshop will review how to best meet needs of children when designing and working on parenting plans, how to guide children through this process while establishing positive relationships with the other parent and explore the importance of both parents for children to facilitate co-parenting efforts. The workshop is from 12:30 to 4:30 p.m. April 19 at the Langley Chapel Annex, room two. For more information or to register, contact Family Advocacy Program, 764-2427.

OSI travel briefings The Office of Special Investigations is offering travel briefings at 9 a.m. everyThursday in Bldg. 1330. Before attending this briefing, call in advance with your planned travel location and dates.To do so or for more information, call 764-7971.

OSI recruitment briefings The next Office of Special Investigations recruitment briefing will be from 9 to 10:30 a.m. April 23 in Bldg. 1330. For more information, call 764-7971.

Poetry Slam The Sexual Assault Prevention and Response office is accepting entries for a poetry contest and reading. Poetry must be related to any of the following: Consent, Sexual Assault, Healthy Dating, Surviving Sexual Assault, or No Means No.

Dependent passports Dependents accompanying their sponsors overseas (except Hawaii) are required to have an Official No Fee Passport before departure. For more information or to contact the Military Personnel Passport Office, call 2252468 or email 633fss.passport@langley.af.mil.

Survivor benefit plan for single Airmen Single airmen are required to attend a mandatory Survivor Benefit Plan (SBP) counseling session prior to their official retirement date. For more information, call your Joint Base Langley-Eustis SBP counselor at 764-5231 or visit http://militarypay.defense.gov/survivor/sbp/01_overview.html

Appearance for military CAC issuance If you are active duty, reserve or National Guard and need a Common Access Card issued, you do not need to be in uniform, however, you must present the proper military image in accordance with AFI 36-2903, Personal Appearance of Air Force Personnel. For more information, call the Military Personnel Section at 764-2270 or 574-2270.

Finance schedule change The 633rd Comptroller Squadron Financial Services Office’s Ca$h Lab and Cashier Cage schedule has changed: ■ CA$H Lab (computer center): 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. (Monday, Wednesday and Friday). ■ Cashier Cage (disbursing function): 8 a.m. to noon (Monday through Friday).

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• The Peninsula Warrior - Air Force

EustisCommunity Mini Park opening Race into spring as the Mini Park opens from noon to 6 p.m. April 6. Enjoy many activities including go-karts, batting cages and mini golf. The batting cages will also be open for youth ball practice. To reserve the park for birthday parties, unit organization days or any special event, call 878-2610.

Holocaust Remembrance The 597th Transportation Brigade will host the Yom Ha’ Shoa (Day of the Holocaust) at 10 a.m. April 9 at Jacobs Theater, Bldg. 647, Monroe Ave. The Fort Eustis community is invited and encouraged to attend. For more information, contact Maj. Michael Yourko at 878-8404 or michael.b.yourko.mil@mail.mil.

Home Buying and Selling Seminars The Fort Eustis Housing Referral Office is sponsoring a Home Buying Seminar from 6 to 8:30 p.m. April 9, and a Home Selling Seminar from 6 to 8:30 p.m. April 11. Both seminars will take place at the 733rd Civil Engineer Division conference room at Bldg. 1407, Washington Blvd. Industry experts will include a realtor, mortgage lender, attorney and home inspector. The seminars are free and open to the public. Please RSVP at least three business days prior to attending the seminar of your choice. To register, call 8782977/5687/5579.

3-on-3 basketball tournament Come help shoot down sexual assault! Join the Sexual Harassment Assault Response & Prevention (SHARP) team for a 3-on-3 basketball tournament from 9 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. April 20 at Anderson Field House. The event is free for military, dependents and DoD civilians. 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place awards will be presented, and each participant will receive a sports bottle. For more information, contact Sgt. 1st Class Mark Ashby at (808) 542-4240 or email mark.w.ashby2.mil@mail.mil.

SAAM 5K Run/Walk The 93rd Signal Brigade will host a Sexual Assault Awareness Month 5K Run/Walk at 6:15 a.m. April 17 at McClellan Fitness Center. Registration begins at 5:45 a.m. The event is open to military and civilian personnel. Participants are encouraged to wear civilian clothing. For more information, contact Sgt. 1st Class Jabbar Williams at 878-2627 or email jabbar.a.williams.mil@mail.mil

Walk a Mile in Her Shoes Fort Eustis will host a “Walk a Mile in Her Shoes” event at noon April 10 at the post’s Exchange parking lot. Registration begins at 11:30 a.m. For more information, contact Sgt. 1st Class Jones Evans at 878-0361 ext. 233 or email jones.t.evans.mil@mail.mil.

Family Advocacy Program Family Advocacy Program classes for April will include: ■ Anger Management – April 9, 1 to 2:30 p.m. (eightweek series).

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Submit Eustis Community announcements to pw@militarynews.com ■ Couples Communication – April 19, 10 to 11 a.m. ■ Family Advocacy Safety Education Seminar – April

18, 9 to 11 a.m. To register, call 878-0807. No children please. Classes will take place at Bldg. 213, Calhoun St.

Balfour Beatty Communities ■ Community Clean-up Contest – Join us for the 2nd annual Community Clean-up at 8:30 a.m. April 19. Meet at the Community Center to get a bag and gloves. Residents will have two hours to pick up as much trash as they can in the community. A prize will awarded to the individual who collects the most trash. ■ Earth Day/Safety Awareness Fair – BBC and on and off-post organizations will host an awareness fair from 3 to 6 p.m. April 26 at the Community Center. Activities will include hands-on displays, bouncers, wildlife displays, fire department staff, a DJ and dancing, prize giveaways, free food and more. ■ Kids Craft:Yarn Baskets – Kids are invited to come out and create a hand-made yarn basket from 3 to 4 p.m. April 9 at the Community Center. All children must be accompanied by a parent. RSVP by April 8. ■ Scrapbooking Event – Capture those special moments in a beautiful hand-crafted scrapbook from 3 to 4:30 p.m. April 23 at the Community Center. ■ “What’sWorth Saving in theWorld” Photo Contest Throughout April BBC will be collecting photos of anything that you feel is worth saving on our planet. Bring in your 4x6 photos and include a brief description of why you think the item you selected is worth saving. The contest is open to all ages. Winners will be announced May 1. The activities listed above are for BBC residents only. The Community Center is located at Bldg. 126, Madison Ave. For more information, call 328-0691.

Strike Zone Bowling fun ■

After-School Special – Wednesday through Friday, from 2 to 5 p.m. The After-School Special is open to students K-12. The cost is $6 and includes unlimited bowling and shoes. This event is not valid during school breaks or holidays. ■ “Bowlopolis” Birthday Party Packages – Bowling and shoes are available for children up to age 12 (limited to 8 children). The cost is $80 (each additional child $10). The party package includes two large one-topping pizzas, two refillable pitchers of soda, invitations, plates, cups and napkins. ■ Extreme Bowling – Fridays, 10 p.m. to 1 a.m.; Saturdays, 9 p.m. to 1 a.m. It’s time to dim the lights and pump up the music for some “extreme” fun. ■ Karaoke at the Lanes – April 6, 20; 8:30 p.m. to 12:30 a.m. Come out and enjoy karaoke with Jeff Brown from Sound Explosion. ■ Ladies League –Tuesdays, 9 a.m. Ladies leagues will start in April; participants must sign-in by 8:15 a.m. ■ Senior League – Mondays, 7:50 a.m. Senior leagues will start in April; participants must sign-in by 7:15 a.m. ■ Summer Mixed Leagues –Thursdays; 6:30 p.m.Threeperson teams for summer mixed leagues are now forming

(starts May 9). The bowling center is located at Bldg. 675, Jackson St. For more information, call 878-5482.

Soldier & Family Readiness Soldier and Family Readiness (ACS) classes and briefings for April will include: ■ 1, 2, 3 Magic – April 12, 19, 26; 1 to 3 p.m. ■ Autism’s Impact on the Military Family – April 11, 10 a.m. to noon; Jacobs Theater. ■ Baby and Me Play Group – Thursdays, 10 to 11 a.m.; Bldg. 501, Madison Ave. ■ Credit Reporting, Scores and Debt Management – April 16, 9 to 10 a.m. ■ DevelopingYour Financial Plan – April 9, 9 to 10 a.m. ■ Effective Resume Writing – April 12, 9 a.m. to noon. ■ Federal Employment – April 25, 10 a.m. to noon. ■ Financial ReadinessTraining – April 19, 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. ■ Job Search Strategies – April 8, 15, 22, 29; 10 to 11 a.m. ■ Leadership Development – April 8-11, 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. ■ ManagingYour Checking Account – April 18, 23; 8:30 to 9:30 a.m. ■ Master ResilienceTraining – April 23-25, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. ■ Military Ball Etiquette – April 8, 10 to 11:30 a.m.; April 16, 6 to 7:30 p.m. ■ Spouses-A Soldier’s Hero – April 15, 10 to 11:30 a.m. ■ Volunteer Recognition and Awards Ceremony – April 19, 1 to 3 p.m.; Fort Eustis Club. ■ Volunteer Management – April 23, 9:30 to 11 a.m. or 6 to 7:30 p.m. Unless otherwise noted, classes and briefings will take place in Bldg. 650, Monroe Ave. For more information, call 878-3638.

The Pines Golf Course ■ Get Golf Ready Classes – Come out and “Get Golf Ready” in one week, 6 p.m. April 15-19. The cost is $99 per person. Golf clubs, balls and other equipment will be provided. ■ Golfer Mixer, Cookout, and Golf – April 20 (cookout at 11 a.m.; 9 holes of golf at noon). Free to annual members and $20 for non-members. ■ Member Referral Program – Current members will receive 50 percent off the next month’s dues for each membership that they refer. ■ New Member Special – Each new member will receive 50 percent off their first month’s dues. A new member is defined as someone who has not been a member for at least 12 months. ■ Payday Scramble – The Payday Scramble will kick off at noon Friday with a shotgun start. The format will be four-person Captain’s Choice (tees based on average length of drive). Special spring rates are $25 (members); $40 (retirees and DoD civilians); $45 (guests); $18 (E4 and below); and $20 (E5 and above). The cost includes 18 holes of golf, cart, range balls, food and prizes. Payment is due at time of registration. For more information, call 878-2252 or visit www.eustismwr.com.

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Submit Outside The Gate announcements to pw1@militarynews.com

Audible Egg Hunt Region 3 Lions Clubs and Journey for Sight District 24-D will host an Audible Egg Hunt from 1 to 3 p.m. April 13 at the Holiday Trav-L-Park, 1075 General Booth Blvd., Virginia Beach.This event is open to blind and visually-impaired individuals of all ages (ages 12 and under for siblings). Other activities will include games, prizes and snacks. For more information, call 301-0555.

Spring Arts and Crafts Show The annual Colonial Williamsburg Employees Spring Arts and Crafts Show will take place from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. April 13-14 at the Historic Triangle Community Services Building, 312 Waller Mill Rd., Williamsburg. Admission and parking are free and open to the public. Jewelry, woodcrafts, photography, paintings, jams, and other handmade gifts will be available for purchase. For more information, contact Tanya Lyons at 945-1548 or email twoluvbugs@hotmail.com.

Civil War Re-enactment The Endview Plantation will host a Civil War Re-enactment from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. April 13-14 at 362Yorktown Rd., Newport News. Come out and see the re-enactment of battles fought 150 years ago in Williamsburg as part of the Sesquicentennial remembrances of the Civil War. Visitors can watch demonstrations, experience camp life, visit with living-historians, listen to lectures, and take photos. Admission is $7 per person and free for children ages 6 and under. House tours will be available at a reduced price during this event. For more information, visit www.endview.org or call 887-1862.

Isle of Wight Homeschool Day The Isle of Wight County Historic Resources Division will host Homeschool Day at its historic sites from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. April 19. Homeschoolers of all ages can visit the following sites for a selection of fun and engaging activities that highlight the history of Isle of Wight County and Virginia: ■ Isle of Wight County Museum, 103 Main Street, Smithfield ■ Boykin’sTavern, 17130 Monument Circle, Isle of Wight ■ Fort Boykin, 7410 Fort Boykin Trail, Isle of Wight ■ Fort Huger, 15080 Talcott Terrace, Isle of Wight ■ Carrollton-Nike Park, 13036 Nike Park Road, Carrollton This event is free, but registration is required. To register, email tneikirk@isleofwightus.net. For more information, visit www.historicisleofwight.com.

Sandy Bottom Nature Park The City of Hampton Parks and Recreation offers the following educational programs at Sandy Bottom Nature Park, 1255 Big Bethel Rd., Hampton. ■ Big Fish Tournament – April 26, 7 to 8:45 p.m.; $10 each; ages 16 and older. This is the first time that anglers will be allowed to fish at Crystal Lake. Prizes will awarded to the top three contestants. All participants must pos-

Walk Hampton Clean The Hampton Clean City Commission will host “Walk Hampton Clean” from 6 a.m. to noon April 13 in Hampton. Invite your family, friends, colleagues and acquaintances to pick a spot or an area that needs to be cleaned, even in your own neighborhood, then spend 30 minutes or longer walking that area and picking up trash. Participants are invited to join a Walk Hampton Clean celebration sponsored by the Hampton Bay Days Committee after the cleanup. Volunteers are strongly encouraged to work with at least one partner (some sites will require partnering). Equipment provided by the HCCC will include litter sticks, safety vests, work gloves, plastic gloves, trash bags and/or cigarette litter counters, all available on a limited basis. Litter sticks, safety vests, work gloves and counters are reusable and must be returned. The HCCC is located at 1296 Thomas St., Hampton. Hours are 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday. For more information, call 727-1130, visit www.hampton.gov/hccc, or email causink@hampton.gov.

sess a valid Virginia fresh water fishing license. ■ Kids Fishing – April 6, 10 to 11 a.m.; $2 each; ages 3 to 15. Learn the basics of fishing, fishing techniques, different types of bait, and how to bait your own hook. Bring your favorite fishing pole or use one of ours. An adult must accompany all children. ■ Meet the Animals – April 13, 1 to 2 p.m.; $2 each; all ages. Come out and join a park ranger for a leisurely nature hike. We will discuss the history of the park and see the critters in the Nature Center. We will then hike to our wildlife education area and view the native non-releasable wildlife. ■ Overnight Survival Camp – April 12-13 (10 a.m. April 12 to 8 a.m. April 13); $15 each; ages 7 to 14. We will teach you how to turn everyday items into useful camping supplies. Registration deadline is two days prior by 3 p.m. ■ Primitive Fire Starting – April 28, 10 to 11:30 a.m.; $2 each; ages 10 and older. Learn how to make a fire the way that Native Americans did. Lessons will include how to gather material to make a fire bundle, collecting wood and using friction to make a fire. ■ Turtle Painting – April 20, 11 a.m. to noon; $2 each; ages 3 and older. We will teach you about our native turtles and help the turtles to finger paint. Each participant will receive a picture painted by a turtle. Unless otherwise noted, the registration deadline for the programs listed above is one day prior to the event, by 3 p.m. Other activities at the park include boat rentals, camping, fishing, walking trails, and a Wildlife and Nature Center. For registration deadlines and other information, call 8254657 or visit www.hampton.gov/sandybottom.

Military Appreciation Night The Virginia Peninsula Chamber of Commerce is hosting “Military Appreciation Night” from 6 to 11 p.m. May 18 at Langley Speedway, 11 Dale Lemonds Dr., Hampton. Come out for an evening of stock car and kart racing. Admission is free for active-duty military and their family members (with military ID). Activities will include a special recognition ceremony, military static displays, and a special race where the top drivers will race for one of the five branches of the armed forces for the Chamber Cup.

Register online at www.military-salute.com for your free ticket voucher.Tickets are limited to the first 3000 who sign up, so act fast. For more information, call 325-8162.

Horticulture Help Line Hampton master gardeners are available to answer any questions that you may have about lawns, gardens or plants. Hours are 8:30 to 10:30 a.m., Mondays; and 9 to 11 a.m. and 1 to 3 p.m., Tuesdays. Call the Hampton office of the Virginia Cooperative Extension at 727-1401 or e-mail your questions to HPTmghelpdesk@hotmail.com.

Online Travel Show The Virginia Tourism Corporation has launched “For the LOVE ofTravel,” a brand-new episodic travel show for YouTube. The webisodes are short vignettes that feature authentic destinations and local people who tell a personal story about some of the lesser-known and newer travel experiences in Virginia. Visitors to Virginia.org will also be able to watch the videos and get helpful maps, itineraries, travel packages and suggestions to book a trip to the places featured in each webisode. The debut webisode is available at www.YouTube.com/ VisitVirginia. Visit www.Virginia.org to book a trip or request a free Virginia is for Lovers travel guide.

Hampton History Museum discounts The Hampton History Museum is offering free admission, as well as half-price memberships, to active and retired military, their families and civilian employees during the month of April. This includes entry into the Hampton History Museum galleries and the special exhibit “An American Turning Point: The Civil War in Virginia -Surviving War,” as well as all museum events and programs taking place during the month. For more information on the Hampton History Museum’s monthly happenings, call 727-1610 or visit www. hamptonhistorymuseum.org and like Hampton History Museum on Facebook.

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/DQJOH\ +DPSWRQ FRQGXFW FUDVK H[HUFLVH Langley Air Force Base and the city of Hampton participated in a simulated F-22 Raptor crash at Hampton’s Gosnold Hope Park, March 28. The exercise was designed to help ďŹ rst responders from the city of Hampton and Langley Air Force Base work more effectively together in the event of a real world emergency. The mock F-22 Raptor aircraft frame (above) features propane hoses running along the inside and outside of the body, and allows crews to control the intensity and scope of a ďŹ re during training exercises. Photos by Staff Sgt. Wesley Farnsworth and Senior Airman Kayla Newman

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Photo by Senior Airman Jason J. Brown

Photo by Senior Airman Jason J. Brown

U.S. Army Spc. Ryan Lewis (right), assigned to the 689th Rapid Port Opening Element, receives the Army Achievement Medal from Col. Charles R. Brown, 597th Transportation Brigade commander, during the brigade's annual BestWarrior Competition awards ceremony at the unit chapel annex at Fort Eustis, March 29. Lewis won top honors at the competition in the junior enlisted category, earning the title of 597thTrans. Bde. “Soldier of theYear.”

U.S. Army Sgt. Claribel Lopez Feliciano, 688th Rapid Port Opening Element transportation management coordinator, receives the Army Achievement Medal from Col. Charles R. Brown, 597th Transportation Brigade commander, during the brigade's annual Best Warrior Competition awards ceremony at the unit chapel annex at Fort Eustis, March 29. Lopez Feliciano won top honors at the competition in the noncomissioned officer category, earning the title of 597th Trans. Bde. “NCO of the Year.”

Photo by Staff Sgt. Wesley Farnsworth

Photo by Airman 1st Class R. Alex Durbin

Photo by Airman 1st Class R. Alex Durbin

U.S. Army Spc. Nashon Richardson, 689th Rapid Port Opening Element cargo specialist, pulls back the charging handle of a M2 .50 caliber heavy machine gun during the Best Warrior Competition. Each participant was required to successfully disassemble and reassemble the weapon as part of the “mystery challenge,” one of 11 events testing each Soldiers skills.

Photo by Airman 1st Class R. Alex Durbin Photo by Airman 1st Class R. Alex Durbin

U.S. Army Pfc.William Montgomery, 690th Rapid Port Opening Element cargo specialist, races through the obstacle course during the Best Warrior Competition. The obstacle course was one of the week-long competition’s events that tested each Soldier’s physical fitness.

Soldiers from the 597th Transportation Brigade prepare their weapons on Range 2 during the rifle qualification portion of the brigade’s Best Warrior Competition. In addition to rifle qualification, competitors were tested on military knowledge, physical fitness, marksmanship and Army warrior tasks and drills.

APRIL 5, 2013

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Classifieds TO PLACE AN AD...

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Taking this Shortcut Can Shorten your Life!

Marshall 100W acoustic amp w/ stand and pedal; $550. Call Joe at 846-3903.

For Rent-Rooms

Stay Off! Stay Away! Stay Alive!

Oscar Schmidt semi hollow guitar w/softcase; $150. Call Joe 846-3903.

LG 500 sq ft studio style room for rent w/ priv entrance and Ba in waterfront home. $600 per mo. Move in ready. Near Ft Eustis & Langley AFB. 757-537-8539

Fender 212R electric amp w/ stand and pedal; $300. Call Joe at 846-3903.

BY MAIL:

DEADLINE: Reader & Display Thursday 5:00 p.m. (week prior)

For Rent-Townhomes

Furniture-Household Brand New Layaway Available MATTRESS SETS Full- $99, Queen- $129, King- $169 40% Military Discount on all other sets!

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YOU JUST BLEW $10,000. Buzzed. Busted. Broke. Get caught, and you could be paying around $10,000 in fines, legal fees and increased insurance rates.

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Submit online at: www.peninsulawarrior.com

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For active-duty, retired military, their eligible family members and active or retired civil service employees If you are retired military or retired DOD civilian, include current employer and work phone number on the application.

Restrictions: • Only 5 ads per week, per household • Renewals, corrections and cancellations cannot be taken by phone and must be resubmitted • Illegible, too long or otherwise do not conform to instructions will not be published and must be resubmitted for the next issue • Automotive ads must begin with make, model and year • Real estate ads must begin with name of city, neighborhood and must be your primary residence. • Ads will not be accepted via official mailing channels such as guard mail or postage and fees paid indicia. • Free ads cannot be of a commercial nature (i. e., business opportunities, help wanted, etc) and must be personal property of the eligible member. Should not represent a sustained income or business or listed through agents or representatives. • When advertising a home for rent or home for sale, the home must be THE PRIMARY RESIDENCE. (All rental properties are considered paid ads.) WE DO NOT ACCEPT CALLS FOR FREE CLASSIFIED ADS Deadline Thursday, 5 p.m. for the following week’s publications

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• The Peninsula Warrior - Air Force

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APRIL 5, 2013

TM