Sound of Freedom - May/June 2020 by Times Media Group

MAY/JUNE 2020

VETERANS

Serving

VETERANS

Col. Lee Alton brings experience to the nonprofit

Helping

‘HANDZ’

NEW APP HELPS THE MILITARY EARN EXTRA MONEY

Hometown

Hero

Sound of Freedom is published bi-monthly by Times Media Group, a private publishing company. Times Media Group is in no way affiliated with Luke Air Force Base or the United States Air Force.

F I G H T E R C O U N T R Y PA R T N E R S H I P

Fighter Country Partnership and Foundation Supporting the men, women, families and mission of Luke AFB

BY BILL JOHNSTON

ighter Country Partnership and Fighter Country Foundation are continuing to support the men, women, families and mission of Luke Air Force Base through the pandemic. The spring and summer are normally packed with events that raise awareness of the national treasure we have on the west side of Phoenix. The programs have been suspended and moved—not canceled—except for the air show. While it will make for busy third and fourth quarters, the organizations will continue their mission to provide these important programs, services and events. The First Sergeant Appreciation, Women’s Leadership Development Series, FCP Financial Saves Expo, Money Strong Financial Literacy Program, Monthly Deployed

Sound of Freedom | MAY/JUNE 2020

Family Programs, March of the Fallen have been moved to the third and fourth quarters of the year. The Back-to-School Bash, Operation Santa, Operations Warm Heart and Angel Tree and other events later in the year remain scheduled. The board of directors is moving forward with its Family-Spouse COVID-19 Support Program. The organization will work with the senior leadership and first sergeants at Luke AFB to support the families going through challenges, of which there are

This program will provide Fry’s Food & Drug/base commissary gift cards to those in need in the 56th Fighter Wing (5,700 airmen), 944th Fighter Wing (1,200 airmen), Navy Operational Support Center (800 sailors) and the USMC Bulk Fuel Company C (400 Marines).

many. This program will provide Fry’s Food & Drug/base commissary gift cards to those in need in the 56th Fighter Wing (5,700 airmen), 944th Fighter Wing (1,200 airmen), Navy Operational Support Center (800 sailors) and the USMC Bulk Fuel Company C (400 Marines). The board will rely on the senior leadership across each organization to identify these military members/spouses, and Fighter Country Foundation will provide the funding resource. The organization is planning for Military Member Resiliency Retreats for when the lockdown is over. So, it will be imperative to assist and help the airmen reintegrate from the lockdown and socialize outside the confines of their living situations. The staff, like many others in Arizona, are working remotely through video and phone conferencing to plan these meaningful programs. There is an easy way to support Fighter Country Foundation—register for a Sound of Freedom license plate at fightercountry.org/plate. Info: ﬁghtercountry.org

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Contents

MAY/JUNE 2020 MAY/JUNE 2020

Publisher Steve T. Strickbine Vice President Michael Hiatt

VETERANS

Serving

VETERANS

Col. Lee Alton brings experience to the nonprofit

Helping

‘HANDZ’

NEW APP HELPS THE MILITARY EARN EXTRA MONEY

Associate Group Publisher Laura Meehan, 623-777-1042 lmeehan@star-times.com

Hometown

Hero

Sound of Freedom is published bi-monthly by Times Media Group, a private publishing company. Times Media Group is in no way affiliated with Luke Air Force Base or the United States Air Force.

ON THE COVER

20 2

Adam Evans, Annamarie Celaya and Sam Celaya of InstantHandz photographed by Pablo Robles at The Wigwam.

Contributors Connor Dziawura, John Heckenlaible, Bill Johnston, SSgt. Alexandra Longfellow, Senior Airman Leala Marquez, Airman 1st Class Brooke Moeder, 2nd Lt. Alexandra Smith, Sue Thew

Fighter Country Partnership and Foundation Supporting the men, women, families and mission of Luke AFB A Salute to the Front Line Luke and Arizona ANG come together to honor medical heroes

10 Glendale Native Showcasing Readiness Peterson AFB’s medical dream team keeps base safe 12 Making History 56th FW receives maintenance award two consecutive years 14 Continuing Care Bioenvironmental protects medical staff from COVID-19 15 Much-Needed Aid Thunderbirds Charities helps MAM expand services to military families 16 Lending Support InstantHandz gives airmen and their families a few extra bucks 20 Veterans Serving Veterans Col. Lee Alton brings experience to the nonprofit

Executive Editor Christina Fuoco-Karasinski 480-898-5631 christina@star-times.com

Sound of Freedom | MAY/JUNE 2020

38 24 Staying Safe EMS makes face shields and masks for medical personnel 26 Practicing Social Distancing Oasis dinner brings airmen together while keeping them apart 28 Flying High Again Airbase Arizona Museum plans for summer 30 Life During a Pandemic Resiliency is key to emotionally and physically surviving the crisis 32 Luke AFB Hero Staff Sgt. Eric McKinley is selfless on- and off-duty 34 A Salute to Students GCC can help veterans with their academic future 36 Peace of Mind App provides military with near real-time info on COVID-19, traveling 38 Be a Hero Plasma donations from recovered COVID-19 patients needed

Graphic Design Veronica Thurman vthurman@timespublications.com Production Manager Courtney Oldham production@timespublications.com Advertising Representatives Barbara Duran, 623-847-4608 bduran@star-times.com Connie Williams, 623-847-4601 cwilliams@star-times.com Circulation

Sound of Freedom sets high standards to ensure forestry is practiced in an environmentally responsible, socially beneficial and economically viable manner. This issue was printed on recycled fibers containing 10% post consumer waste, and with inks containing a blend of soy base. Our printer is a certified member of the Forestry Stewardship Council, the Sustainable Forestry Initiative, and additionally meets or exceeds all federal Resource Conservation Recovery Act standards.

Statements, opinions, and points of view express written consent by the writers and advertisers and are their own, and do not necessarily represent those of the publishers, editors, or Sound of Freedom staff. Although Sound of Freedom has made every effort to authenticate all claims and guarantee offers by advertisers in the magazine, we cannot assume liability for any products or services advertised herein. No part of Sound of Freedom can be reproduced or transmitted in any form without the express written consent of the publisher. The publisher reserves the right to accept or reject any editorial or advertising matter at any time.

Postmaster: Please return all undeliverable copies to Sound of Freedom, 1620 W. Fountainhead Parkway, Suite 219, Tempe, AZ 85282. Yearly subscriptions available; six issues mailed directly to your mailbox for $19.95 per year (within the U.S.). All rights reserved. ®2018 Affluent Publishing LLC. Printed in the USA.

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A Salute to the Luke and Arizona ANG come together to honor medical heroes BY 2ND LT. ALEXANDRA SMITH 56th Fighter Wing Public Affairs

uke Air Force Base and the Arizona’s Air National Guard honored Arizona front-line responders with a 15-aircraft flyover May 1. F-35 Lightning II and F-16 Fighting Falcon aircraft from the 56th Fighter Wing and 944th Fighter Wing and a KC-135 Stratotanker from and 161st Air Refueling Wing flew over 11 cities in the Valley in a Total Force effort comprised of active duty, Air Force Reserve and ANG airmen working together to raise spirits and honor front-line workers during the coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic. “This community flyover was an opportunity to extend our heartfelt gratitude and salute all of the health care workers, first responders, military members and essential personnel who are hard at work on the front lines fighting the coronavirus,” says Brig. Gen. Todd Canterbury, 56th Fighter Wing commander. “This training event also showcased our con-

Sound of Freedom | MAY/JUNE 2020

Brig. Gen. Todd D. Canterbury, commander, 56th Fighter Wing, Luke Air Force Base, discusses the May 1 ﬂyby. (Photo by Pablo Robles)

tinued ability to integrate with our total force partners from the 944th Fighter Wing and the 161st Air Refueling Wing.” Pilots in the formation included the commander, vice commander and operations

group commander of the 56th Fighter Wing, the commander and operations group commander of the 944th Fighter Wing, and leadership from all of the fighter squadrons at Luke. “From all the pilots and aircrew flying and

NEWS

Front Line Medical professionals from St. Joseph’s Hospital watch as aircraft from Luke Air Force Base and the Arizona Air National Guard 161st Air Refueling Wing fly by Phoenix. Fifteen aircraft including F-35A Lightning IIs and F-16 Fighting Falcons from the 56th Fighter Wing and 944th FW, and a KC-135 Stratotanker from the 161st Air Refueling Wing, participated in a flyover as a Total Force salute to each American serving on the front lines in the fight against coronavirus disease 2019. Air Force Salutes flyovers are a way for the U.S. Air Force to show appreciation to the thousands of heroes at the front line battling COVID-19. (U.S. Air Force photo by Tech. Sgt. Clinton Atkins)

ground personnel supporting this undertaking, we wish Arizona a speedy recovery from COVID-19,” says Lt. Col. Jason Bartels, 56th Fighter Wing Program Integration Oﬃce chief and lead operations planner for the event. “We are truly grateful to live in such a wonderful state with its unwavering support for our mission to train the world’s best fighter pilots.” The aircraft flew over 11 cities, 20 hospitals and multiple major landmarks in the area. The flight was part of a larger Air Force movement to honor and show the Department of Defense’s respect to all front-line workers in

this challenging time. Defending the homeland has taken a new shape, and the Air Force is proud to serve alongside first responders and essential personnel in the COVID-19 response efforts. “Our front-line medical workers are heroes,” Gov. Doug Ducey says. “Today’s flyover was a perfect symbol of the strength, resolve and unity of our doctors, nurses and emergency responders have displayed in the fight against COVID-19. Arizona is grateful to them and Luke Air Force Base for this tremendous recognition.”

Aircraft from Luke Air Force Base and the Arizona Air National Guard paid tribute to front-line medical professionals with a ﬂyby on May 1. (Photo by Pablo Robles)

Air Force Salutes flyovers are a way for the U.S. Air Force to show appreciation to the thousands of American heroes who are at the front line battling COVID-19 and providing the support that America needs. Luke AFB conducted Luke Salutes at no additional cost to taxpayers; it served as training for the pilots. “Thank you to everyone in the Valley for showing your support to our flyby while keeping front-line responders in your hearts,” Canterbury says. “Our community support throughout the Valley remains second to none.” MAY/JUNE 2020 |

Sound of Freedom

NEWS

Glendale Native Showcasing Readiness Peterson AFB’s medical dream team keeps base safe BY SSGT. ALEXANDRA LONGFELLOW 21st Space Wing Public Affairs

he 21st Medical Group at Peterson Air Force Base in Colorado Springs has stood up two operations in the matter of days, showcasing the true readiness capabilities of the group as a whole. Capt. Jennifer Shoemake, 21 MDG clinical team chief, and Capt. Lorna Neeley, 21 MDG patient administration team chief, who hails from Glendale, have been vital in the efforts to stop the spread of COVID-19 with standup of the Point of Testing Center and the more recent drive-thru pharmacy. “Our most valuable assets are our personnel who can adjust to quickly changing environments and meet the needs of our beneficiaries,” Neeley says. “With the setup of the drive-thru pharmacy, we see not only our medics in action but our trained augmentees stepping in to keep our base and their entire population safe.” Both Shoemake and Neeley train base augmentees on proper protocol to dispense hundreds of pharmaceuticals to beneficiaries while patients never need to leave their vehicles. “Without the airmen serving as augmentees, the pharmacy operations would be unable to add these enhanced safety precautions,” Shoemake says. “This mission could not exist without them.” With a robust Air Force Medical Service training program, Neeley says these are the moments when she taps into all the lessons learned and hands-on training she has received. “Although we have not trained on these specific constructs, using the foundation provided we are able to come up with a deployed-like setting operation and execution to ensure we

Sound of Freedom | MAY/JUNE 2020

Capt. Lorna Neeley, 21st Medical Group patient administration team chief, wears a face mask while assisting with the new drive-thru pharmacy located at the Peterson Air Force Base exchange parking lot. Customers can drive up to a series of stations and have their prescription delivered to their vehicle. This new procedure is being used to help prevent the spread of COVID-19. (Air Force photo by Staff Sgt. Alexandra M. Longfellow)

meet not only Air Force mandates but, in this case, the CDC’s evolving guidance, meeting our No. 1 priority of patient and staff safety while delivering benefits,” Neeley says. Shoemake agrees with Neeley and states she and her team have needed to flex and evolve throughout this pandemic. “As a nurse practitioner I am well aware that medicine is also constantly evolving, and we must be willing to acknowledge that in order to keep our patients safe,” Shoemake says. “In this environment, we are not only responsible for our patients but even more so our airmen. They are the most limited resource, and without them we would not be able to fulfill the mission.” Part of their work not only includes training augmentees but their staff on personal protective equipment. As guidance comes down, direction changes regularly. Shoemake and Neeley need to ensure everyone is using the most current recommendations. “We worry about the team with PPE, shel-

ters for inclement weather and making sure our people wash their uniforms daily,” Shoemake says. “It is very big stuff, but it’s the little stuff, too.” They both say they are doing what they can to make sure people can continue to complete the mission safely. “These are the times in the Air Force that you are given the opportunity to step up and you learn what people are really capable of,” Neeley says. “New bonds of friendship and camaraderie are born. As the stress levels mount and people get tired, we need to lean on our team. That has definitely happened more and more as we have worked together as a team.” Shoemake says the highlight of this situation has been stepping out of her normal operations in order to serve a bigger purpose. “The airmen often tell us that even though they are tired and physically exhausted, they are grateful to be making a difference. It feels that way for us, too.”

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Sound of Freedom

NEWS

Making History 56th FW receives maintenance award two consecutive years BY AIRMAN 1ST CLASS BROOKE MOEDER 56th Fighter Wing Public Affairs

he 56th and 944th Fighter Wing earned the Air Force Clements McMullen Memorial Maintenance Daedalian Trophy for the second consecutive year—2018 and 2019— the first time in the award’s 60-year history. Awarded annually by the secretary of the Air Force, the award is presented to an Air Force maintenance unit with the greatest weapon system maintenance record for the previous year. This most recent win is the 56th FW’s fourth time earning the trophy. The 56th FW is now competing at the Department of Defense level. “Winning two years in a row has never been done before,” says Maj. Richard Wille, 56th Maintenance Group deputy commander. “We’re the largest owners and operators of F-35A Lightning IIs in the world. There are a number of firsts we’ve done with the F-35 that rolls into being the first to win the award in 2018 and 2019 in the Air Force, which is an awesome reflection on the work everyone is putting in.” “The 56th Maintenance Group built upon the programs and innovations of the 2018 fiscal year to continue the success into 2019,” says Lt. Col. Joshua Wennrich, 56th Equipment Maintenance Squadron commander.

Sound of Freedom | MAY/JUNE 2020

The 56th Fighter Wing earned the Air Force Clements McMullen Memorial Maintenance Daedalian Trophy for the second consecutive year—2018 and 2019—the first time in the award’s 60year history. Awarded annually by the secretary of the Air Force, the award is presented to an Air Force maintenance unit with the greatest weapon system maintenance record for the previous year. This most recent win is the 56th FW’s fourth time earning the trophy. (U.S. Air Force photo by Airman 1st Class Bryan T. Guthrie)

More than 2,772 active-duty and reserve maintenance personnel are assigned to the 56th and 944th Fighter Wing maintenance teams who aid in the process of maintaining 98 F-35A Lightning IIs and 77 F-16 Fighting Falcons. Luke Air Force Base operates two premier fighter weapons platforms, four F-35 aircraft maintenance units, two U.S. and two allied nation F-16 units and supports one geographically separated F-15E Strike Eagle detachment to produce 22,000 sorties and 26,800 flying hours per year. Additionally, the wing’s maintenance technicians made continual advancements and applied innovative management and repairs across all mission requirements, saving more than $36 million and 26,000 man hours from October 1, 2018, through September 30, 2019. “We empower our technicians,” Wennrich says. “Everyone in the maintenance group is superb. The dedication they put in every single day is second to none. The innovation and mission have sprung from ideas within the enlisted corps.” More than 453 944th Maintenance Group reserve airmen and 242 Air Reserve technicians work alongside their active-duty counterparts at the 56th MXG to provide

“We empower our technicians. Everyone in the maintenance group is superb. The dedication they put in every single day is second to none. The innovation and mission have sprung from ideas within the enlisted corps.” technical expertise and additional support. “I’m appreciative of the partnership,” says Col. Scott Briese, 944th Maintenance Group commander. “It’s wonderful working side by side and sharing this momentous event.” The 56th MXG continues to keep the F-35s and F-16s serviceable supporting Luke’s mission of training the world’s greatest fighter pilots and combat-ready airmen. “It’s been a great honor to not only win once but twice,” Wennrich says. “It’s a testament to not only the hard work put in by the maintainers on a daily basis but the innovation and the out-of-the box thinking they put forward. It’s that difference that has made us so successful.”

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Continuing

Care

Bioenvironmental protects medical staff from COVID-19

Senior Airman Gregory Rackley, 56th Bioenvironmental Engineer technician, pours sensitivity solution into a nebulizer before a protective mask fitting test at Luke Air Force Base. Sensitivity and fit test solutions are bitter liquids the bioenvironmental section sprays on N95 respirator masks to test their seal. Individuals wearing the cover will taste the solution if the seal is faulty. Bioenvironmental personnel are fitting masks to minimize possible exposure to COVID-19 for medical personnel to continue care for patients. (U.S. Air Force photo by Senior Airman Leala Marquez)

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Senior Airman Andrew Hetzler, 56th Bioenvironmental Engineer technician, mists a bitter sensitivity solution in to a qualitative fit test hood worn by Karen St. Aubin, 56th Dental Squadron dental technician at Luke Air Force Base. Bio uses the hood to contain the solution while helping ensure N95 masks worn by medical personnel fit properly. In this case, Aubin is being exposed to the solution to familiarize her with its smell without the N95 mask. The bioenvironmental personnel are helping Luke combat coronavirus by ensuring protective equipment is working properly to maximize protection for medical personnel. The 56th Medical Group is following Centers for Disease Control and Prevention guidelines and working closely with Arizona health officials to minimize the spread of COVID-19 at Luke AFB and the surrounding community. (U.S. Air Force photo by Senior Airman Leala Marquez)

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Sound of Freedom | MAY/JUNE 2020

Staff Sgt. Beth Kenney, 56th Dental Squadron dental assistant, wears a N95 respirator mask while misted with a sensitivity and fit test solution at Luke Air Force Base. The outer hood isolates the spray, and if the N95 mask is properly fitted, the individual wearing the mask will not smell or taste the solution. Bioenvironmental personnel are fitting masks to protect medical personnel from Coronavirus Disease 2019 so they can continue care for patients. (U.S. Air Force photo by Senior Airman Leala Marquez)

NEWS

Service members’ families receive school supplies during the Back to School Mission. (Photo courtesy Military Assistance Mission)

A soldier and family enjoy a D-backs game, courtesy of Sanderson Ford Seats for Soldiers. (Photo courtesy Military Assistance Mission)

Much-Needed Aid Thunderbirds Charities helps MAM expand services to military families BY CHRISTINA FUOCO-KARASINSKI

t’s rare that military servicemen and women would reach out for help, but when they do, it is the community’s responsibility to lend support. In April, Military Assistance Mission (MAM) was awarded $100,000 from Thunderbirds Charities, the charitable giving arm of The Thunderbirds—hosts of the Waste Management Phoenix Open. It allows the nonprofit to continue its mission of providing financial and morale aid to Arizona’s

active-duty military, national guard and reservists, their families and post-9/11 Purple Heart recipients. On average, MAM provides financial and emotional support to more than 4,500 milAn Arizona service member and family attend the Operation Holiday itary members and Open House. (Photo courtesy Military Assistance Mission) families. Bundle Bash, Back 2 School Mission, Oper“Receiving this grant from Thunderbirds Charities is a game chang- ation Holiday Open House and Caring for er for MAM,” says Trey Vineyard, MAM board Hero Caregivers. Financial assistance is also available and is at president. “I am excited to see how this funding will the heart of its mission of giving back. “Through our financial assistance program, help us respond even more effectively to the needs of military families. This support will we are able to meet the needs of the lowest most certainly change the trajectory of their ranking service members by helping pay for lives, and we are humbled by the opportunity basic necessities, such as housing, utilities, groto offer programs to those who have given and ceries, car payments and insurance,” Vineyard continue to sacrifice so much for the Ameri- explains. “Without generous donations from organizations like the Thunderbirds, we would can way of life we all cherish.” MAM programs include Work for War- not be able to do the work we aim to do.” Info: azmam.org riors, Seats for Soldiers, GI Gap Grant, Baby MAY/JUNE 2020 |

Sound of Freedom

InstantHandz was founded by Sam Celaya, right, and Annamarie Celaya, center. Adam Evans, left, came on board shortly thereafter. The app helps military families earn extra money and connects neighbors. (Photo by Pablo Robles)

Sound of Freedom | MAY/JUNE 2020

LENDING

Support

InstantHandz gives airmen and their families a few extra bucks

BY CHRISTINA FUOCO-KARASINSKI

dam Evans is familiar with the military’s transient nature. When his spouse made it into the Air Force after seven years of waiting, Evans knew what to expect—even when he said he was leaving for bootcamp in just two weeks. “I moved out here, and having already been through the Air Force (with his parents) for 18 years of my life, nothing really changed,” Evans says. “My mom was pregnant with me at Luke Air Force Base in 1981. The current commander’s father was the commander at the time.” Evans’ next task was to find a job. He couldn’t secure anything too permanent in the Valley, because they may be required to up and move. Evans landed a job as an adjunct professor via Skype for the University of Kentucky. “I really wanted to be a tenured professor for maybe Arizona State, but they didn’t want to hire me, because whenever my husband gets orders or if he gets deployed, we have to go. It’s really tough. That’s been the story since my mom was a military spouse.” As fate would have it, Evans saw a PowerPoint about Phoenix-based InstantHandz, which boasted ways of earning extra money

Adam Evans grew up in a military family and understands the challenges they face. (Photo by Pablo Robles)

Sam Celaya, a Goodyear resident, says InstantHandz isn’t just about building an app. It’s about connecting neighbors. (Photo by Pablo Robles)

while helping out neighbors, while he was in the gym. “I knew you just either stay at home to care for the kids or you find just part-time jobs while you’re at the station there, because you really aren’t going to have any roots in one place,” Evans says. “I was the first person to sign up for InstantHandz and I said, ‘Tell me more.’”

InstantHandz was founded by the son of a Vietnam veteran, Sam Celaya, who wanted to help military spouses and soldiers. “My mom was essentially a single mom while I was growing up,” Celaya says. “She was raising four kids and working three jobs at one point. I can recall us not having money SEE INSTANT HANDZ PAGE 18

MAY/JUNE 2020 |

Sound of Freedom

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to fix the water heater, and heating up water on a stove to take baths. “Then, three years ago, when I went to see my father in West Palm Beach, he wasn’t in any condition to take care of his place. I recall thinking, ‘I wish we had somebody in this neighborhood who was reliable, who could help out.’ I started digging into military pay, military families, veterans and so forth. I came up with InstantHandz.” InstantHandz’s goal is to bring neighbors together with small jobs in and around the home. Neighbors receive help from hard-working veterans, active-duty members of the military and their families. “We have a dual mission at InstantHandz,” says Celaya, who formerly worked as an executive with U-Haul and WebPT. “Our platform helps active-duty members of the military, veterans and their families earn extra income by doing side jobs. Through this initiative, we are also helping to integrate servicemen and women into their local communities.” InstantHandz especially helps customers who are living paycheck to paycheck and can’t afford to pay contractor rates, adds Celaya, a Moon Valley High School graduate who lives in Goodyear. The app launched in November 2019 at Luke Air Force Base and expanded to MCAS Yuma and Davis-Monthan Air Force Base in Tucson. InstantHandz is working with Hiring Our Heroes, a U.S. Chamber of Commerce-backed nonprofit, as well as The Wounded Warrior Project to employ veterans and transition active-duty servicemen and women into the business world. So far, InstantHandz has helped military families earn nearly $60,000 in additional income. The Luke AFB Spouses Club presented a plaque to InstantHandz for assisting with the transition and renovation of the Luke Airman’s Attic thrift shop. InstantHandz can help with tasks like yardwork, house cleaning, handyman services, hauling and pet care. Affordable, quality help with no-contact in-app credit card payments and customer reviews are just a few of the many benefits communities can rely on from InstantHandz. Evans saw the benefits early on. He asked to “switch sides of the table” and work for InstantHandz, which he dubs “the Uber of small jobs.” It works the same as well. All transactions are done on the app, so people don’t have to exchange cash. There are communication channels with the app so customers can exchange details about the job. In light of COVID-19, InstantHandz offers volunteer opportunities so soldiers and their families can do small jobs for veterans who are at risk. “It’s so much faster for us to run into a Fry’s, grab milk, toilet paper or whatever else we need than leave a veteran who’s 75 who may be with their caregiver in the store. “We can be in and out in 2 minutes, take it to their house and drop it off.” A side effect of InstantHandz is education. The airmen are learning about financial management as well. “This isn’t about building an application,” Celaya says. “This is truly about doing social good. This is about helping people who need help. But this is also about helping the people who are sacrificing for this country.”

InstantHandz instanthandz.com 18

Sound of Freedom | MAY/JUNE 2020

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Sound of Freedom

VETERANS

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VETERANS Col. Lee Alton brings experience to the nonprofit Retiring as a colonel from the U.S. Air Force, Lee Alton wants to make veterans’ lives easier. (Photos by Pablo Robles)

BY CHRISTINA FUOCO-KARASINSKI

ee Alton calls veterans a tight-knit group. Retiring as a colonel from the U.S. Air Force, Alton wants to make their lives easier. When he was asked to help the Veterans Serving Veterans Foundation, he didn’t hesitate. “I think, in general, veterans have not been treated well since the Vietnam war,” Alton says. “We all know the things they faced. Now there’s homelessness and PTSD—particularly from those who come back from a war zone. We used to fight wars of short duration. This seemed like something really great.” The Veterans Serving Veterans Foundation was created to provide technical assistance and consulting to veteran-owned small businesses and nonprofit organizations in Arizona during the COVID-19 crisis. The foundation defines a veteran-owned small business as one where 51% or more is owned, operated or controlled by a veteran. “We want to get this to grow,” Alton says. “We want to work with other organizations and provide assistance when we can, like webinars and various types of training. We’re concentrating on seeing if we can get the people to apply through the Paycheck Protection Program and the Small Business Administration the money they need to survive

Sound of Freedom | MAY/JUNE 2020

these next few months, until the economy improves.” The Veterans Serving Veterans Foundation is looking for volunteers to help provide its free services. “Whatever people can do to help us help them, we’ll take—whether it’s recruiting more people to be mentors for the businesses or to help them walk through the processes they’re going through to get funding,” Alton says. Air Force career Alton decided he wanted to enter the Air Force when he was in the eighth grade. He was inspired by his Air Force father and a Thunderbirds appearance. A family friend was a fighter pilot and told Alton stories about his career. “That’s where my desire to be an Air Force pilot started,” Alton says. “I went to the Air Force Academy and then pilot training. With the Vietnam War raging, in 1966, many of the pilot training graduates were ending up in the backseat of an F4, the primary aircraft of the Vietnam War. “I didn’t want to go in the backseat. If I was going to war, it was going to be in the front seat. I chose an assignment of Germany and then volunteering for Vietnam. At the time,

I was young and impressionable. I didn’t realize, at the time, that there’s a tour length. Mine was three years. It looked like I couldn’t upgrade for three years.” He was sent to Vietnam, and during his 26-year career, he commanded several large Air Force organizations, including the 21st Tactical Fighter Wing, Elmendorf AFB, Alaska; the 32nd Tactical Fighter Group, Netherlands, where he also served as the U.S. Air Force Europe’s country representative to the Netherlands; and the F-15 Fighter Weapons Squadron (the Air Force’s equivalent to “Top Gun”). The Cave Creek resident has more than 4,000 flying hours in the F-4 and F-15 fighter aircraft and served two combat tours in Vietnam. Additionally, Alton served several senior staff positions, including deputy director, Air Force International Programs, where he directed the management of the Air Force’s $72 billion security assistance programs for 108 countries around the world; country director, office of the secretary of defense, international security policy, which developed DOD policy initiatives and analysis of police options for European countries; and director of assignments, U.S. Air SEE ALTON PAGE 22

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Sound of Freedom

Forces Europe, where he managed the assignment of 59,000 officers and enlisted personnel throughout Europe. “When I was in Alaska, they thought I was having too much fun,” Alton says with a laugh. “They thought they could sneak me into the Pentagon military assistance program selling bombs all over the world. Then the Middle East blew up and we went to war. I volunteered to go back to war, but I didn’t get to go to the Gulf War. I stayed in the Pentagon, retired and became a pilot for Southwest Airlines. I figured I wouldn’t grow up. I’d stay a pilot.” He spent 12 years with Southwest Airlines and also led a men’s Bible study. “I thought, during that time, I wasn’t doing enough for God’s kingdom,” he says. “There was more that the good Lord wanted me to do. I found a nonprofit, Alongside Ministries, whose mission is to help people transition from prison to the community.” He served for five and a half years as the director of operations for the prison ministry, where he developed the overall organizational structure to include special risk management considerations. He established and implemented company personnel policies, operational procedures and employee benefits. Alton designed the ministry’s website and promotional materials and an initial three-year strategic plan and annual budgets. His next move laid the groundwork for Veterans Serving Veterans. He managed his parents’ and in-laws’ lives through dementia and Alzheimer’s. He also served as a caretaker for a friend, handling his wife’s finances and medical care. “I realized there was a great need out there for someone to help seniors,” Alton says. “I discovered the American Association of Daily Money Managers that helps seniors and widows with their day-to-day finances. It was very rewarding.” It was then that Veterans Serving Veterans Foundation came calling. It needed Alton to keep it afloat. “I was really intrigued by what they were trying to do,” Alton says. “I wanted to make sure veterans get a good chance. I hard to do things all on your own, tapping into groups like this SBA and governor’s council. We partner with them to assist our veteran community.” Veterans Serving Veterans Foundation works with nonprofits and for-profits. “All we care about is that they succeed,” Alton says. “The average person doesn’t understand what veterans have gone through or endured. We’re a tight-knit group. We support each other. We depend on each other.”

Sound of Freedom | MAY/JUNE 2020

Lee Alton supports Veterans Serving Veterans Foundation, which needed him to keep it afloat. It works with nonprofits and for-profits.

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Airman 1st Class Taylor Frost, 56th Equipment Maintenance Squadron aircraft metals technology journeyman, cuts materials for a face mask at Luke Air Force Base. Frost and members of the 56th EMS are creating 40 to 60 masks a day for Luke members to protect against the coronavirus pandemic. The 56th EMS and 944th Maintenance Group have implemented total force integration, combining the efforts of active-duty and reserve military and civilians to combat the spread of COVID-19. (U.S. Air Force photo by Senior

Airman Leala Marquez)

Staying

Safe

EMS makes face shields and masks for medical personnel

BY SENIOR AIRMAN LEALA MARQUEZ 56th Fighter Wing

uke airmen are helping fight coronavirus by supplying protective equipment for medical professionals and essential employees assigned to Luke. EMS airmen are using 3D printers and other equipment to create personal protective equipment, including face shields, tension bars and masks, for the 56th Medical Group and Luke military members. These 3D printers are typically used by EMS to print prototype fixtures. “We were able to find on the National Institute for Health website the face shields that we’re actually authorized to print and that are allowed to be used in the medical community,” says Tech. Sgt. Robert Burns, 56th EMS noncommissioned officer in charge of metals technology. “The sheet metals shop next door is doing the clear part of the face shields.” In addition to the 3D printing accomplished at the shop, some airmen used their personal home equipment to create masks. Overall, 30 masks and 120 tension bars have been printed. In combination with the active-duty efforts Air Reserve Staff Sgt. Terri Miller, 944th Maintenance Group aircraft metals technology technician, has been sewing masks from donated materials and material she purchased, making over 300 masks for Luke essential workers.

Sound of Freedom | MAY/JUNE 2020

Staff Sgt. Terri Miller, 944th Air Reserve aircraft metals technology technician, sews face masks at Luke Air Force Base. Miller started making masks for civilians during the coronavirus pandemic and is now making masks for Luke essential workers to prevent the spread of COVID-19. The 56th Equipment Maintenance Squadron and 944th Maintenance Group have implemented total force integration, combining the efforts of active-duty and reserve military and civilians to combat the spread of COVID-19. (U.S. Air Force photo by

Senior Airman Leala Marquez)

“The idea started because my friend’s little girl has leukemia. I started by making her masks,” Miller says. “I’ve made masks for a doctor in Maryland, a dentist in Ohio, a nurse in Oklahoma. I’ve sent them all over the country. When it became a (DOD) mandate on Sunday, I walked in on Monday morning with 16 in hand.” The effort to combat COVID-19 has demonstrated how airmen can make a difference in protecting military members, their families and the community through their contributions during adversity. “It’s the total force integration concept,” Burns says. “There’s a lot of bases where with active duty and reserve the relationship is not there; here at Luke it is. We work together to get the mission done, whether it’s fixing airplanes or getting through a pandemic.”

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MAY/JUNE 2020 |

Sound of Freedom

Loida Legang, Main Luke Community Chapel catholic religious education director, cleans dishes after prepares food for the Oasis dinner at Luke Air Force Base. (U.S. Air Force photos by Airman Tyler Jansen)

Practicing Social Distancing Oasis dinner brings airmen together while keeping them apart

uke Air Force Base hosted its Oasis dinner outdoors to adhere to social distancing and preventative health practices. The Oa-

sis is a chapel-sponsored organization that helps airmen in the dorm stay safe through various activities that include home-cooked meals.

Airman 1st Class Jack Hodnett, 56th Medical Support squadron resource management technician, left, and Airman 1st Class Kody Adams, 56th Component Maintenance Squadron egress maintainer, right, enjoy a complimentary dinner at the Oasis.

★ LET FREEDOM RING ★ Youngtown proudly supports Luke Air Force Base and our brave aviators who put themselves in harm’s way while protecting our freedoms. Fulfillment of their mission is critical to our region, the state and the nation.

We are in awe of your service to others. Thank you. To schedule a blood donation appointment, call 877-258-4825 (877-25-VITAL) or vist us at vitalant.org

Sound of Freedom | MAY/JUNE 2020

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Sound of Freedom

Flying

High Again

Airbase Arizona Museum plans for summer

BY SOUND OF FREEDOM STAFF

W The distinctive desert camouflage pattern on this C-47 is representative of what some C-47s may have used very early in WWII in North Africa. (Photo courtesy CAF Airbase Arizona Museum)

The B-25 Mitchell medium bomber was used by the Army Air Corps, Navy and Marine Corps during WWII. (Photo courtesy CAF Airbase Arizona Museum)

The B-17 Flying Fortress Sentimental Journey at the CAF Airbase Arizona Museum is one of very few still operational. (Photo courtesy CAF

Airbase Arizona Museum)

Sound of Freedom | MAY/JUNE 2020

hile COVID-19 pandemic restrictions have caused many uncertainties, the CAF Airbase Arizona Museum is continuing to upgrade exhibits in anticipation of reopening when restrictions are lifted. The museum tells the story of 100 years of military aviation with unique artifacts and individual stories. Some of the most storied warbirds provide living history flights on tour. Its large warbird touring season is in summer, while the local living history flight season is September to April. The museum is generally open year-round (COVID-19 restrictions excepted). Under construction is a replica of a World War II-era mission briefing room at a U.S. heavy bomber base in England. It is expected to be finished soon, and member-volunteers will be trained to give “briefings” to visitors to enhance that exciting feeling of really going back in time. Additional new exhibits will be linked to its three most historic flying warbirds to create a more immersive experience: • B-17 Flying Fortress: The iconic heavy bomber of WWII and one of a handful still operational. Featured displays include inflight survival equipment and the 91st Bomb Group, including connections to the fighter aircraft that ensured safe return of the crews in the last phase of the war. The aircraft was delivered from the factory into the Pacific Theater in mid-1945 and flew mapping missions. • B-25 Mitchell: This fast, medium bomber was made famous by the Doolittle Raid over Tokyo but also earned endless respect taking out ground artillery, enemy bridge heads and vicious torpedo gun boats. Displays include the Doolittle Raiders and the Burma Bridge Busters of WWII. The aircraft is an actual combat veteran that performed bombing missions in the Mediterranean. • C-47 Skytrain “Old Number 30”: This aircraft type is credited by Dwight Eisenhower as being one of the top four weapons of victory in WWII. From cargo to heavily armed paratroopers to spies and supplies—Old Number 30 did it all. The aircraft has more documented combat missions in WWII than any other warbird in the Commemorative Air Force. The facility is a Blue Star Family museum and welcomes military families. CAF Airbase Arizona Museum 2017 N. Greenfield Road, Mesa 480-924-1940, azcaf.org @ArizonaCommemorativeAirforceMuseum

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The City of Peoria is a champion of Luke Air Force Base and works hard to protect the Base to ensure their mission’s viability for years to come.

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On behalf of the Mayor and Council, City management and staff, we want to say “THANK YOU” for your service and dedication to our country.

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Sound of Freedom

Life During a

Pandemic Resiliency is key to emotionally and physically surviving the crisis

BY AIRMAN 1ST CLASS BROOKE MOEDER 56th Fighter Wing Public Affairs

he coronavirus has brought fear and change into the lives of many people, including mine. However, there are things I am doing to help stay resilient during this pandemic using the four pillars of Comprehensive Airman Fitness: physical, social, mental and spiritual activities. The physical aspect of CAF focuses on the importance of performing physical activities that require endurance, strength and flexibility derived through exercise and nutrition. Staying active has always been a passion of mine. Growing up in the middle-of-nowhere Kansas, I have always enjoyed being outdoors. Some of my best memories are nights spent at the lake camping and hiking with cousins. I carried that love for camping and hiking with me when I came to Arizona, being outside any chance I could. Phoenix has many mountains and trails, which are a perfect getaway from the busyness and stress of life. One of the best remedies when I’m overwhelmed is to get out in nature and get a fresh breath of air.

Sound of Freedom | MAY/JUNE 2020

The social pillar outlines the importance of maintaining trusted and valued friendships. Being surrounded by people I care about boosts my mood tenfold. I think it’s important to have positive people in your life that you can count on. Whether it be staying connected through phone calls or faceto-face conversation, I make sure to have time with friends while still social distancing. Being separated from family during this time isn’t easy. I rely heavily on phone calls to stay in contact, and I’m blessed to have the means to do so. I love my friends and family dearly and am thankful to have them during this time, no matter how close or far away they are. The mental pillar of CAF demonstrates self-control, stamina and good character with choices and actions while approaching life’s challenges in a positive way. Life throws many challenges our way, COVID-19 being one of them. COVID-19 is motivating me even more so to pursue my goals. While many activities remain closed, I am using the extra time to start

Senior Airman Patrick Lewis, 62nd Fighter Squadron Aerospace Ground Equipment service pickup and delivery driver, and Airman 1st Class Brooke Moeder, 56th Fighter Wing Public Affairs photojournalist, pose for a photo in front of a cross at Campus By the Sea on Santa Catalina Island in California. The four pillars of Comprehensive Airman Fitness exist to help airmen remain resilient. The spiritual pillar is about strengthening a set of beliefs, principles or values that sustain an individual’s sense of well-being and purpose, which can help an individual remain resilient through coronavirus pandemic. (Photo courtesy Airman 1st Class Brooke Moeder)

attending college and bettering my future. I think it’s important to remain determined and demonstrate self-control while pursuing something I’m passionate about. The spiritual pillar is about strengthening a set of beliefs, principles or values that sustain an individual’s sense of well-being and purpose. As a Christian, I remain spiritually resilient through reading the Bible and attending Bible study virtually. I draw my strength and sense of purpose from God. This is the most important pillar to help me remain resilient during COVID-19. It’s more important now than ever to remain resilient. Don’t be afraid to lean on others for help. Foundational friendships between members bind us together, especially in times of hardship. We’re all in this together.

Comprehensive Airman Fitness The four pillars of CAF can be found at acc.af.mil/Home/ Comprehensive-Airman-Fitness

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• Discovery Center - Resources for relocation, transition, employment, housing, schools, and more! • AMVETS – Provides medical records screening and assistance with VA disability claims • Personal Development Information & Resources - Like us on Facebook: Luke A&FRC • Military & Family Life Counselor Assistance

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Contact us for further information: (623) 856-6550 Email: 56fss.fsfr@luke.af.mil 7282 N. 137th Ave. Bldg.1113 Luke AFB, AZ. 85309 “We’re never the wrong place to go!” *Limited Services for DoD Civilians and their families

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Sound of Freedom

Luke AFB HERO

An individual crashed his car into a palm tree April 26, 2019, on Litchfield Road in Litchfield Park. Staff Sgt. Eric McKinley, 56th Civil Engineer Squadron real property organization specialist, was the first on scene to render first aid for the life-threatening car crash. The 2020 Air Force Sergeants Association Pitsenbarger Award was presented to McKinley on behalf of Maj. Gen. Mark Weatherington, Air Education Training Command deputy commander, for McKinley’s actions of selflessness on- and off-duty. (Courtesy photo)

Staff Sgt. Eric McKinley is selfless on- and off-duty BY AIRMAN 1ST CLASS BROOKE MOEDER 56th Fighter Wing Public Affairs

hat defines a person as a hero? Most people envision a hero as a knight in shining armor, a superhero, or someone who is physically strong and courageous. Real-life hero Staff Sgt. Eric McKinley, 56th Civil Engineer Squadron real property organization specialist, was presented the 2020 Air Force Sergeants Association Pitsenbarger Award on behalf of Maj. Gen. Mark Weatherington, Air Education Training Command deputy commander, for his actions of selflessness on- and off-duty. McKinley helped save two individuals’ lives off-duty in 2019— and so many more before that. While going to practice the evening of April 26, 2019, McKinley witnessed a crash—a car, 100 feet in front of him, traveling approximately 45 mph ran head-on into a palm tree. McKinley pulled over, quickly assessed the situation and instructed a passerby to call 911 to report the patient was alive and conscious but trapped. He also instructed another passerby to retrieve the fire extinguisher from McKinley’s car due to the risk of fire. McKinley grabbed his first-aid kit and broke through the back window. He said it was the only entrance available, because the car doors were crushed due to force of the impact. He disregarded the broken glass and crawled through to help the individual in the driver’s seat. “His legs were wrapped under the engine, so I only had access to his chest up,” he says. “I was able to get to his airway and maintain that and make sure to keep it open, because he was bleeding out from his face. His wrist was broken, so I was controlling the bleeding

Sound of Freedom | MAY/JUNE 2020

Staff Sgt. Eric McKinley, 56th Civil Engineer Squadron real property organization specialist, poses for a portrait at Luke Air Force Base. McKinley, a prior EMT, helped save two individuals’ lives while he was off duty by rendering aid during a car crash and later on an airplane. The 2020 Air Force Sergeants Association Pitsenbarger Award was presented to McKinley on behalf of Maj. Gen. Mark Weatherington, Air Education Training Command deputy commander, for McKinley’s actions of selflessness on- and off-duty. (U.S. Air Force photo by Airman 1st Class Brooke Moeder)

on that. I wrapped it and got pressure on it and kept him conscious for 20 minutes until fire rescue arrived.” The fire department used a hydraulic rescue tool to pry Indio, the passenger trapped in the car, out of the wreckage. He emerged

from the crash with critical injuries. With months of hard work, he had to relearn how to walk due to his injured right leg and left foot. Independent motion and dexterity of the fingers in his hand is limited, but Indio said he’s grateful to have any movement, all things considered. “It was a long road to recovery,” Indio says. “Overall I’m sure the outcome could have been much worse had Eric not stopped that night, and I’m forever grateful that he did.” On July 21, 2019, three months after helping Indio, McKinley found himself in another position to offer life-saving assistance. McKinley and his wife were flying from Phoenix to Montana when a flight attendant asked for emergency personnel to help with a situation. A teenager with a heart condition was unresponsive. “We did a head-tilt chin lift to open up the airway and got him an oxygen tank because he was unresponsive,” McKinley says. “I put the mask on him and we were able to cool him down. He started coming back and was responsive again. He started seizing a little bit, so we just kept everyone clear and made sure we put pads along the seats so he didn’t hit anything.” The teen’s heart was beating excessively with a heart rate at 150-250 beats per minute, causing him to pass out. McKinley says they needed to cool the teen down quickly to stabilize him and return his heart rhythm to normal. During the three-hour flight, McKinley continued to monitor him to ensure his vitals remained stable. When they landed in Montana, airport medical staff offered the teen additional assistance needed and then released him. McKinley says his eight years of experience in the Air Force helped, but his prior experience as an EMT was crucial for those lifesaving situations. “I was an EMT for six years in Rochester, New York (prior to joining the Air Force),” McKinley says. “I started at 18. My dad was a paramedic, so it was something I could do with my dad. I’ve responded to probably thousands of incidents.” McKinley says it’s important to maintain CPR and Self-Aid and Buddy Care (SABC) certifications and standards in case they’re needed. He teaches the courses routinely at Luke. “I did not expect (going to softball practice) to end up in the back of somebody’s car,” he says. “That’s not planned. Maintaining those standards and taking training seriously is really what made me able to help him. If I had not done that and just ignored all of that training, then I wouldn’t have known what to do, and that makes a huge difference.” Helping save lives is a team effort, McKinley says. He adds he couldn’t do it on his own. “The biggest thing is your team,” he says. “It’s never just you. It’s always a group. With the car incident, there were multiple departments and multiple people that came to help. Just do what you’re able to do the best you can. As long you know you did that, you can go home happy.” McKinley represented service before self when he chose to spring into action and assist patients in need. His rapid response and ability to direct personnel under pressure were critical to resolving the life-threatening situations. “I refuse to be that person to drive by and say it’s not my problem,” McKinley says. “I had the means and the knowledge to help, so I did. If you have the ability to do something, it’s the right thing to do. I’d hope someone would stop for me if I was in need.”

SRP CARES ABOUT THE

COMMUNITY Passion for the well-being of everyone in our community is at our core. To learn more, please visit srpcares.com.

MAY/JUNE 2020 |

Sound of Freedom

E D U C AT I O N

A Salute to Students

BY JOHN HECKENLAIBLE Public Information Oﬃcer Glendale Community College

he first thing guests notice when they enter the Veterans Service Center at Glendale Community College is the team’s high level of respect. The receptionists greet visitors by immediately acknowledging them, standing up and shaking their hand. It should come as no surprise really, because the staff at the GCC Veterans Service Center are all former military. They want visitors to know they understand their needs and they are here to help everyone—from active duty to retired personnel as well as their dependents. The GCC Veterans Service Center’s focus is multi-fold. The staff wants to establish camaraderie with fellow service members and ascertain their needs. They want veteran students to know there is resource on campus that is dedicated solely to their needs. Finally, the Veterans Service Center has a lounge where students can

study, meet with friends or find a quiet place away from the hustle and bustle of campus. “We are here to make an impact every day by meeting veterans and dependents where they are at in their life and academic journey,” says Christina Izaguirre, interim manager, veteran services. “We understand that most veterans are starting from scratch and we realize that it can be a tough transition from military life to academic life.” In addition to being high touch and customer-service oriented, the GCC Veteran Services Center staff offers critical services that are vital to making a smooth transition to college. “We realize that for many of our members it has been years since they last set foot in a classroom, and we want to help them navigate the system and overcome challenges,” Izaguirre says. To that point, the Veterans Services Center offers workshops that prepare students for academia, teach tech skills and familiarize them with campus systems such as Canvas, Find a

GCC can help veterans with their academic future Class, and the Student Information System. The Veterans Services Center team also helps with enrollment. The staff will walk veterans through the process of getting admitted, securing proper paperwork, advising on classes and even coordinating with financial aid. When it comes to the transition to civilian life, the Veterans Service Center can connect members with support services that provide assistance in securing food, financial guidance, housing, tech support, mentorship and emotional support. Izaguirre says several success stories have come out of the center. “We have Miguel Cervantes, who will be graduating and transferring to ASU,” she says. “He has been actively involved with us working in the office as part of the Veterans Affairs Work Study program. Another is Dean Yeager, veterans club officer, honor student and PTK member. Andrew DeLaTorre will be graduating in May 2020 and has spent countless hours volunteering for the veterans club and serving as club president.”

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An experience NOT JUST A MUSEUM

Get up-close and personal with combat aviation history at the Arizona Commemorative Air Force Museum. Climb aboard WWII bombers and see hundreds of exhibits that tell stories of heroism and grit.

WE SALUTE LUKE AFB SERVICEMEN AND WOMEN AND THEIR FAMILIES.

We are a proud Blue Star Family Museum and welcome visitors when COVID 19 restrictions are lifted in the near future.

2017 North Greenfield Road Mesa, Arizona 85215

Monitor us on Facebook @ArizonaCommemorativeAirForceMuseum for the latest hours and special offers. 34

Sound of Freedom | MAY/JUNE 2020

WWW.AZCAF.ORG

T E C H N O LO G Y

Peace of

Mind W

hen the team behind OZZI GOV was developing the mobile app, the idea was to provide free news, resources and information exclusively to U.S. diplomats, armed services members and their families to make traveling safer. Then COVID-19 hit. “Our initial focus was to help people travel more safely, but this coronavirus thing kind of put a damper on everybody’s travel plans,” CEO Isaiah Lopez says. “So, what we did is we quickly pivoted to help providing some decision support information within our application that helps people understand outbreaks, community transmission, restrictions, containment zones—all different types of useful information to help close misinformation gaps and provide peace of mind.” That information, according to the company, includes everything from increases and decreases in cases to death and recovery totals—as detailed as down to specific ZIP codes. But while the coronavirus has been the hot topic this spring and as the summer months approach, OZZI GOV takes its features further. From health advisories, travel restrictions and transportation disruptions to alerts about gas leaks, suspicious packages and other threats, like crime, riots or unrest—or even access to lifesaving advice and resources when traveling; useful tips for homebuying and stores if in a new area; and the ability to track developments—the information is vast. The app can be used globally. The company uses military-grade software to provide this information, which stems from numerous sources. OZZI GOV aims convey information as close to real time as possible. “We have millions of data sources within the information,” Lopez elaborates. “So whether it’s social media accounts that use natural language

Sound of Freedom | MAY/JUNE 2020

App provides military with near real-time info on COVID-19, traveling BY CONNOR DZIAWURA processing or it’s individuals in regions that are reporting information using a specific cadence, we have tons of different information sources to automatically comb and provide up-to-date information, no matter where you’re at.” Before information is delivered to OZZI GOV’s users, though, it is vetted by the U.S. government. And Lopez adds that user data is anonymous, “so we’re not vulnerable like other companies might be.” “We spent about 13 months going through a pretty strict vetting process, whether that was our data sources, us as individuals, our company, taxes—all that stuff—and all of those things were reviewed by NGA (National Geospatial-Intelligence Agency) and DOD (Department of Defense) before it hit the (GEOINT) App Store,” Lopez details, adding that the NGA subsidizes app costs. The idea for OZZI GOV dates back to a program with which Lopez, an Arizona native, says he was involved while working at American Express from 2015 to 2018. “Back in 2015, there was a pretty significant and widespread terrorist attack,” he recalls. “They attacked a cafe, a concert hall and a stadium. There were more than 400 people wounded, and more than 100 lost their lives. It was a pretty devastating situation. “I was sitting in Phoenix, knowing that I wanted to do something to help the situation because it was so devastating, but I didn’t really know what I could do.” So, Lopez says, he and his team put together a plan to notify individuals swiping their cards in affected areas, then provide them with access to

useful information. “We proactively reached out to them to provide them psychological services, medical support or transportation services to get out of that area, as needed,” he explains. “And then that transformed into a real-time web application that was released in more than 200 global markets and translated into nine different languages.” Longing to go bigger with the idea and help ensure safe travel, he launched his own company in 2018. The OZZI GOV app officially launched March 11 of this year. Lopez hints that more is in the works with OZZI GOV, from developing features and enhancing the existing product to hopes of receiving a Small Business Innovation Research grant, which he says would allow OZZI GOV to help the government understand more about coronavirus impacts. “What we initially aimed to do was just help people acclimate to new areas, but as we look at how this coronavirus situation evolves, we really want to help people adapt to the new normal, and that new normal is going to be different and widespread across the planet,” Lopez adds of the future. “Different cultures will have different ways of addressing things, and it’s imperative that people understand how to interact with those new circumstances. And we are excited to help in that new normal.” The app is available for free for almost anybody within the U.S. government via the GEOINT App Store at apps.nga.mil/ home/welcome. For more information, visit ozzigov.com.

HAPPY MEMORIAL DAY

In memory of many, In honor of all, Thank you.

Y YO OU UR R B BR RA AV VE ER RY Y A AN ND D SSEER RV VIIC CEE W W II LL LL N NE EV VE ER R B BEE FFO OR RG GO OTTTTEEN N

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The City of Litchfield Park Proudly Supports Luke Air Force Base 623-935-9040 litchfield-park.org

HIGH SCHOOL SENIOR SPOTLIGHT

s our graduating high school seniors will not be able to walk across the stage in front of friends and family this spring, letâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s take this opportunity to celebrate them among their community and put a spotlight on them and all they have accomplished over the last four years. Share your graduates achievements, accolades, plans for the future or a favorite moment of high school. Let your senior take a bow for all of their accomplishments!

Class of

2020

You have the opportunity to include a special spotlight highlighting your senior in your community paper. Please keep in mind that our editorial team will have final editing rights if needed. DATES FOR PUBLICATIONS Gilbert Sun News - Sunday, May 24 Mesa Tribune - Sunday, May 24 Scottsdale Progress - Sunday, May 24 SanTan Sun News - Sunday, May 24 Ahwatukee Foothills News - Wednesday, May 27 West Valley View - Wednesday, May 27 Peoria Times - Thursday, May 28 The Glendale Star - Thursday, May 28

Share the digital edition with friends and family

Chandler Arizonan - Sunday, May 31

Join us in honoring our Seniors, for pricing contact: 623-535-8439 MAY/JUNE 2020 |

Sound of Freedom

H E A LT H

Be a Hero

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italant has launched a program to treat COVID-19 patients with blood plasma donated by people who have recovered from the disease. Known as “convalescent plasma,” this blood component contains antibodies that may give patients an extra boost to fight their illness. Vitalant, Arizona’s largest nonprofit community blood provider, collected its first “convalescent plasma” donation on April 15 from 21-year-old Jack Schmittlein, who believes he contracted COVID-19 while on a university study-abroad program in Barcelona, Spain. There are no vaccines or proven treatments for COVID-19, because the virus is so new. Although trials for a vaccine are underway, it is expected to be many months before one is approved. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has identified and approved convalescent plasma treatment as an “emergency in-

vestigational new drug.” It is the only antibody treatment available to COVID-19 patients and, as such, is a promising new tool. This form of investigational treatment may give the body more fight against COVID-19 by using antibodies that are active against the disease. With the help of local communities, hospital partners and extensive research experience, Vitalant is gearing up to help patients fight this novel infectious disease with the help of willing recovered COVID-19 patients. “This is an example of the medical and research communities coming together to effect real change during this pandemic,” says Dr. Ralph Vassallo, Vitalant’s chief medical officer. “Convalescent plasma is a promising response tool for fighting COVID-19 in patients and potentially for those working on the front lines.” Vitalant is seeking convalescent plasma do-

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