Sound of Freedom - November/December 2020 by Times Media Group

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2020

MADE FOR

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LUKE AIRMANâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S STORY IS ONE FOR THE BIG SCREENS Veterans Day Deals

Sound of Freedom is published bimonthly 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

This year, the World War II howitzer was used to trigger a moment of silence to remember everyone killed on September 11, 2001. (Photo courtesy Fighter Country Partnership)

THANK YOU! The FCP golf classic worked under pandemic safety guidelines BY BILL JOHNSTON Fighter Country Partnership Program Director

ighter Country Partnership would like to thank everyone involved in the 11th annual Fighter Country Partnership Honorary Commanders Golf Classic. The staff of The Wigwam was spectacular and helped make it happen under

the pandemic safety guidelines. Sponsors, partners and supporters came together to make a successful and safe event for everyone. The event on September 11 was not just for the golf tournament but to share in a moment of silence. In years past, the tour-

Sound of Freedom | NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2020

ney started with a bang from a World War II howitzer. This year, it was used to signal a moment of silence to remember everyone who was lost on September 11, 2001. Again, thank you to everyone who made it happen! We look forward to seeing you there again next year.

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Contents

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2020 Publisher Steve T. Strickbine Vice President Michael Hiatt Associate Group Publisher Laura Meehan, 623-777-1042 lmeehan@star-times.com NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2020

MADE FOR

FILM

TICKETS FOR VETERANS

Company sets virtual event to continue mission

LUKE AIRMAN’S STORY IS ONE FOR THE BIG SCREENS Veterans Day Deals

Sound of Freedom is published bimonthly 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

Staff Sgt. Oleksandr Kalinin

(U.S. Air Force photo by Airman 1st Class Brooke Moeder)

Executive Editor Christina Fuoco-Karasinski 480-898-5631 christina@star-times.com Contributors Connor Dziawura, John Heckenlaible, Bill Johnston, Kamala Kirk, Airman 1st Class Brooke Moeder, Col. Merritt Phillips, Bill Quehrn, Sue Thew Graphic Design Veronica Thurman vthurman@timespublications.com Production Manager Courtney Oldham production@timespublications.com

2 Thank You! The FCP golf classic worked under COVID-19 safety guidelines

21 Veterans Day Deals Restaurants honor service members with discounts this November

26 Training Partnership Luke Air Force Base is strengthening its partnership with the Royal Australian Air Force

Up for the Challenge Officer candidate Steve Duhamel is put to the test

14 A Different Fight Peoria soldier serves on the front lines of the pandemic battle

34 Tickets for Veterans Nonprofit sets virtual event to continue mission

16 Made for Film Luke airman’s story is one for the silver screen

36 Making It Happen at GCC Dean Yeager goes from tank driver to honors student

19 Lest We Forget Airbase Arizona Museum in Northeast Mesa remembers the end of WWII

40 Urgently Needed Vitalant is testing all blood donations for COVID-19 antibodies

Advertising Representatives Barbara Duran, 623-847-4608 bduran@star-times.com Connie Williams, 623-847-4601 cwilliams@star-times.com Circulation

Sound of Freedom is distributed by AZ Integrated Media, a circulation service company owned by Times Media Group. The public is permitted one copy per reader. For further information regarding the circulation of this publication or others in the Times Media Group family of publications, please contact AZ Integrated Media at circ@azintegratedmedia.com or 480-898-5641. For circulation services please contact Aaron Kolodny at aaron@azintegratedmedia.com

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.

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F E AT U R E

Up for the Challenge Officer Steve Duhamel was put to the test BY KAMALA KIRK

rizona’s Steve Duhamel graduated from one of the most competitive programs in the Navy—officer candidate school. Now he’s commissioned as an ensign and joined the ranks of the Navy’s leadership. “When I first signed up, I knew I was signing up for a challenge, but I don’t think I realized how big of a challenge it was,” Duhamel says. “I’m glad that I had my peers and the ability to step up to that challenge. It’s been an incredible experience.” The 13-week course took place at Officer Training Command, Newport (OTCN) in Rhode Island, and is physically and mentally demanding. It is designed to develop civilians and fleet sailors into newly commissioned officers and instills in them the highest ideals of courage, commitment and honors for their service in the fleet as naval officers.

The grueling 13-week program also includes physical fitness training, which tests each candidate’s capabilities. (Photo courtesy U.S. Navy)

Officer Steve Duhamel, then officer candidate, is a recruit from Arizona who recently participated in officer candidate school, an extremely competitive program that prepares recruits for the challenges of being a naval officer. (Photo courtesy U.S. Navy)

Annually, OTCN trains approximately 66% of all U.S. naval officers and commissions 45% of all line officers through four distinct programs, including OCS, Officer Development School, Naval Science Institute: Seaman to Admiral, and Limited Duty Officer/Chief Warrant Officer Academy. OCS is distinct from Navy Enlisted Boot Camp, which is also known as Recruit Training Command (RTC), and includes similar fundamental skills to those taught at RTC, such as seamanship, firefighting, watchstanding and more. OCS goes further with advanced navigation and officer development and teaches the core foundations of leadership, fitness, academics and profession of arms. In addition to physical fitness training, the OCS curriculum includes mental training

Sound of Freedom | NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2020

through academic courses, military inspections and memorization of military knowledge. Areas that are studied at OCS include naval history, cyber warfare, applied leadership, engineering and weapons. The program has four phases of training, starting with the Indoctrination Phase (I), which tests each candidate’s physical capabilities during the first three weeks through the initial strength test (IST), drill, instilling military bearing and values, and placing emphasis on physical training, knowledge and uniform inspections and introduction to academics. The Officer Candidate Academic Phase (II) continues with academics and militarization events that instill discipline and build confiSEE DUHAMEL PAGE 11

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F E AT U R E DUHAMEL FROM PAGE 8 dence during the next five weeks. It is during this time that recruits are expected to continue improving their physical fitness to demonstrate their continued physical improvement. “During the first two phases, we were taught everything we need to know when we get up to the fleet,” Duhamel says. “They taught us all the basics and what they expect of a naval officer. Right now, we’re in the Applied Leadership Phase, where we get the opportunity to practice some of the leadership that we’ve learned.” During the Candidate Officer Applied Leadership Phase (III) in weeks 10 to 12, students are referred to as candidate officers; and the focus of this training phase is for candidates to display and apply the leadership attributes they have learned during the first two phases. It’s also an opportunity for candidate officers to set an example for other junior candidate classes. Approximately every three weeks a new class of candidates starts the OCS program, resulting in an overlap that allows for students in SEE DUHAMEL PAGE 12

In addition to physical training, officer candidate school includes mental training through academic courses, military inspections and memorization of military knowledge. (Photo courtesy U.S. Navy)

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F E AT U R E DUHAMEL FROM PAGE 11 the last phase of training to supervise those in the first and second phases of training. In the final week, known as the Senior Candidate Officer Out-Processing Phase (IV), students are referred to as senior candidate officers; and the focus of the last phase of training is for candidates to complete any graduation requirements, participate in group mentorship sessions, and complete any outstanding academic requirements and final out-processing paperwork. “Seeing the growth in myself and all the people around me has been really interesting,” Duhamel says. “One of the biggest challenges was learning to work with everybody else. OCS brings together a lot of different people with different personalities, but the end goal is the same for all of us, so we have to figure things out together.” As a result of COVID-19, class sizes and arrival dates have been modified to minimize exposure to staff and students. While the requirements for OCS haven’t changed, there have been some changes to how things are done, including two weeks of isolation, wear-

ing masks throughout training, social distancing and thorough cleaning. “My class is a little smaller than normal due to COVID-19, so we’ve all become close,” Duhamel says. “While there have been some changes, it’s still a very valid and useful program. The command has done the best they can to maintain all the important aspects of the program.” Upon successful completion of OCS, each class has a graduation ceremony where friends and family are invited. Due to the pandemic, the ceremonies are being livestreamed instead so loved ones can tune in and still be a part of the celebration. After graduation, Duhamel plans to attend nuclear power school with the ultimate goal of becoming a submarine officer. “Right now, I’m looking at going to nuclear power school after I commission, where I will learn all the theoretical parts of nuclear power and actually practice on a prototype reactor,” says Duhamel, who graduated from Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University this year.

“From there, I’ll go to submarine school and be deployed on a submarine. OCS has been challenging in more ways than I could have expected, but overall, it’s been a really great learning experience and has prepared me for what I should expect when I get out of the fleet. Everything I’ve learned up to this point has reinforced my decision, and I couldn’t be happier.”

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Peoria’s Brittany Fouts was recently mobilized to Edinberg, Texas, as part of a medical task force to combat COVID-19. Fouts is an Army Reserve critical care nurse and was part of a Department of Defense effort to support the Federal Emergency Management Agency in its pandemic response. (Photo courtesy Brittany Fouts)

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eoria resident Brittany Fouts recently returned from a military assignment in Edinburg, Texas, where she saw firsthand the trauma and challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic. Fouts, a critical care nurse and a 1st lieutenant in the Army Reserve, was one of more than 250 medical professionals mobilized in task forces as part of the Federal Emergency Management Agency’s response in South Texas. Fouts’ team consisted of doctors, nurses, combat medics, respiratory therapists and support personnel who expanded the capacity of local civilian medial facilities. This is one of the most prestigious opportunities I have had in both my military and civilian career,” says Fouts, who served as an emergency room nurse in Edinburg.

“Working in this environment was an educational experience on the importance of adapting to overcome hardships,” she says. “It’s very overwhelming to work in an unknown environment, but the team you work with can make all the difference.” Raised in Long Island, New York, Fouts’ family relocated to Anthem in 2007 after her father retired from the New York City Police Department. It was his response efforts on September 11 that sparked her interest in the military. “My parents—Scott and Renee Peccia— raised us to appreciate community service and to respect others,” she says. “I went military, and my brother Anthony serves as a police officer, as does my husband, Brett.” Fouts graduated from Boulder Creek High School in Anthem and went on to earn her nursing degree from ASU in 2015, where she commissioned through the Reserve Officer

Sound of Freedom | NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2020

Training Corps. “I always wanted to serve my country. Joining the Army, and more specifically the Nurse Corps, allows me to be a part of a prestigious and respected profession,” she explains. “The constant opportunities for new adventures and career progression are benefits as well.” When not mobilized, Fouts is employed by HonorHealth in the trauma neuro intensive care unit and emergency room in Central Phoenix. It is there she first treated patients infected with COVID-19. She worked in a COVID-19-designated intensive care unit there from March until she was mobilization in late July. She shares that working there “prepared me mentally and emotionally to support my fellow comrades who did not have the previous experience caring for COVID-19 patients.”

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F E AT U R E

MADE FOR

Luke airman’s story is one for the big screens

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

Sound of Freedom | NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2020

magine discovering a once-in-a-lifetime chance to change your life forever. Taking that chance meant you had to leave your home, move to a new country and face a new adventure. This Luke Air Force Base airman’s story could be one for the big screen.

Staff Sgt. Oleksandr Kalinin, 56th Force Support Squadron Airman Leadership School instructor, exchanged his old memories for the idea of making new ones in a new place. “My story is almost like a movie,” Kalinin says. “Born and raised in Staff Sgt. Oleksandr Kalinin, 56th Force Support Squadron AirUkraine, I lived there unman Leadership School instructor, middle, his brother Vladimir Kalinin and his grandmother eat lunch in Vinnytsia, Ukraine. til I was close to 15 years At 15 years old, Kalinin and his family moved to the United old. The 2008 recession hit, my parents owned a busi- States in 2010 through the Diversity Immigrant Visa Program. The odds of being randomly selected are slim, with an averness which was struggling. So age of 13.3 million people submitting applications every year. my parents, out of desperation, (Photo courtesy Staff Sgt. Oleksandr Kalinin) started looking for ways out.” Kalinin’s parents discovered gratulations, you’re going to America!’” and applied for the Diversity Immigrant Visa Kalinin, his parents and his brother moved Staff Sgt. Oleksandr Kalinin, 56th Force Program, also known as the “green card lot- to Seattle in April 2010. They reconnected with Support Squadron Airman Leadership tery.” his dad’s old college friend, who helped them School instructor, holds a family heirTh rough the program, applicants of low-adsettle into a two-bedroom apartment. loom. Kalinin brought the amulet with mission countries—any country with fewer Soon Kalinin realized that the United States him from Ukraine when he moved to than 50,000 natives admitted to the United is a country filled with experiences he wasn’t the United States in 2010. The amulet is traditionally kept in a household and is States in the previous five years—are eligible to used to. He said one thing that amazed him thought to bring an abundant harvest, enter the lottery for a U.S. visa. However, ac- was that you could get free refills. good luck and keep spirits away. (U.S. Air cording to the American Immigration Coun“In Ukraine that’s not a thing,” Kalinin Force photo by Airman 1st Class Brooke Moeder) cil, the odds of being randomly selected are says. “If you want another one you have to slim, with an average of 13.3 million people purchase it.” submitting applications every year. Kalinin explained that after leaving the “About six or so months later, my parents re- world he knew, he was initially lonely because ceived a letter in the mail,” Kalinin says. “They he didn’t know anyone and felt isolated. Howsent it to my English tutor, and we sat there with ever, he is thankful for the openness and the him while he opened it. He briefly scanned it help he’s received thus far on his journey in the and said, ‘Con- United States. Before graduating high school, he decided to join the Air Force in 2014. “I joined the military because I didn’t know how to fill out a college application,” he jokes. “Actually, I wanted to fly, and my dad saw how much the service takes care of you, because he enlisted as internal troops in the Soviet army back in the ’80s. He said it was tough, so he kind of prepared me for it. It’s a good foundation.” Kalinin enlisted as a heating, ventilation and air-conditioning technician. He mentioned that HVAC technical training was challenging to learn because of all the materials the job encompasses, but he overcame it while making many lifelong friends. Staff Sgt. Oleksandr Kalinin, 56th Force Support Squadron Kalinin arrived at Luke AFB in October Airman Leadership School instructor, right, his brother Vladimir 2014. He attended Airman Leadership School Kalinin and father are from Vinnytsia, Ukraine. Kalinin and his in March 2019 without knowing he’d later be family moved to the Seattle in 2010 from Ukraine, and Kalinin joined the Air Force in 2014 after graduating high school. Kalinin an instructor. is working on his bachelor’s degree in management and plans Kalinin says the five weeks students spend at to apply for the Air Force Officer Training School and become a ALS is a little snapshot of what leadership looks pilot. (Photo courtesy Staff Sgt. Oleksandr Kalinin) like in action. Students are presented with sitNOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2020 |

Sound of Freedom

Staff Sgt. Oleksandr Kalinin, 56th Force Support Squadron Airman Leadership School instructor, holds his United States Certificate of Citizenship at Sheppard Air Force Base, Texas. Kalinin earned his citizenship during technical training. Kalinin and his family moved to Seattle in 2010 from Ukraine, and Kalinin joined the U.S. Air Force in 2014 after graduating high school. (Photo courtesy Staff Sgt. Oleksandr Kalinin)

uations where they’re forced to adapt to build their leadership skills. He also encourages them to return to their unit and change the Air Force from within it or, if they choose to get out, use the skillsets learned to change the world from outside the military. Eight months later, he became an ALS instructor himself and now teaches airmen the skillsets and criteria needed to become noncommissioned officers.

THANK YOU FOR YOUR SERVICE AND PARTNERSHIP

The City of El Mirage is proud of the steadfast relationship with our neighboring Luke Air Force Base. Mayor Alexis Hermosillo Vice Mayor Roy Delgado Councilmembers: Monica Dorcey Mike Hutchinson Anita Norton David Shapera Donna Winston

Sound of Freedom | NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2020

Staff Sgt. Oleksandr Kalinin, 56th Force Support Squadron Airman Leadership School instructor, teaches an ALS class at Luke Air Force Base. Kalinin became an ALS instructor in November 2019 and teaches airmen the skillsets and criteria needed to become noncommissioned officers. The course puts students into situations where they’re forced to adapt in order to build their leadership skills. (Photo courtesy Staff Sgt. Oleksandr Kalinin)

“He told me before he came to ALS he was planning on just getting out of the military after his time was up,” says Master Sgt. Bradford Doyon, 56th FSS ALS commandant. “ALS made such a big impression on him that he wanted to be part of the team and give back what he received. When he was being evaluated during the selection process, you’d never know he was teaching his first class—you’d think he’d been doing it for a year or two already.” As an extrovert, Kalinin says he loves working with people and emphasizes the fact that experiences can’t be bought. “My first class was graduating at Club 5/6, and all my students were looking sharp,” Kalinin says. “I just remembered how they walked up to me and thanked me. I stood there and thought, ‘In no other point of time can I buy this. This is real.’” Apart from being an ALS instructor, Kalinin is working on his bachelor’s degree in management and plans to complete it within the next year. Once achieved, he is going to apply for the Air Force Officer Training School program. “When I came in, I wanted to fly jets, but it took another five years for it to sink in and think how much I really want to fly,” Kalinin says. “Now I’m taking steps. I see the progress, and this progress fuels further progress.” Kalinin says he has embraced all the opportunities the Air Force has given him, such as the chance to go to school and buy a house, and suggests others do the same. Kalinin earned his U.S. Certificate of Citizenship August 21, 2014, while in technical training at Sheppard Air Force Base, Texas. “Overall, the military tells you how to succeed, which tells me the people that don’t succeed are actively refusing to succeed” Kalinin says. “If you’re here to do something, put your mind to it and do it the best you can. Don’t be afraid to ask if you need help. People are always willing to help.” Kalinin returned to Ukraine in 2019 to visit family, a trip that brought back memories but reminded him that his home is in the States. He says he plans to stay in the military but would also like to be a movie actor one day. “It suits me,” Kalinin says. “It’s easy to get along with people, to do the mission. It’s a wonderful joy ride. I can see myself serving for 20 years, unless I get picked up for a new Hollywood blockbuster.”

F E AT U R E

When the Airbase Arizona Museum’s planes aren’t flying, visitors can get right up close to them, even step aboard the B-17, pictured, and C-47. (Photo courtesy Airbase

Lest We Forget

Arizona Museum)

Airbase Arizona Museum remembers the end of WWII

BY BILL QUEHRN Sound of Freedom Contributing Writer

his year will likely be remembered by things that didn’t happen. Family gatherings, concerts, sports events, charity programs and countless others have been lost to the COVID-19 pandemic. One entire category of events lost this year was celebrations planned for the 75th anniversary of the end of World War II. Celebrations might have brought at least a moment of healing and pride to a nation shattered by political and social upheaval. The lives lost worldwide to COVID-19 are tragic, of course. But America alone lost nearly half a million of the 16 million men and women in uniform in WWII and another nearly 800,000 others were injured, many catastrophically. Even those awful numbers pale in comparison to the 60 to 80 million lives lost world-

wide. The simple fact is none of us would be alive today nor would we have enjoyed the lives we have lived in the country we love had the allies in WWII lost to the treachery and tyranny they faced. The Airbase Arizona Museum strives daily to be sure the stories of the Greatest Generation and veterans since then are never forgotten. Hundreds of documented artifacts, from dog tags to our iconic B-17 bomber tell the stories of indominable courage, valor and achievements of those who have fought to keep us free. Our B-17, B-25, C-47 and several other planes in our collection are still flying and taking passengers for rides thanks to the countless volunteer hours of those who care for them. When the museum’s planes aren’t flying, visitors can get right up close to them, even step aboard the B-17 and C-47.

Visitors can also examine the astounding achievements of the Greatest Generation and those since in the vast array of aircraft, engines, clothing, machines and other elements produced by American workers who became known in WWII as the Arsenal of Democracy. Videos and speaker programs tell other stories of Americans who answered the call to duty then and in several eras since. It is tragic that this vitally important chapter of history has been forgotten by so many, and it’s sad that this year’s celebrations were overwhelmed by illness. That said, the stories are there to be told and retold every day standing beside a cabinet display or aircraft at Airbase Arizona Museum, or riding in one of its planes as it glides over the Valley. They are stories we will never forget.

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2020 |

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BUSINESS

s n a r e t e V Day

s l a De Restaurants honor service members with discounts BY CHRISTINA FUOCO-KARASINSKI Sound of Freedom Executive Editor

Dickey’s Barbecue Pit

estaurants from around the Valley are doing their best to remember veterans with deals on November 11. Military and veteran IDs are necessary for many of these discounts. Visit the restaurants’ websites for information on all Valley locations. 7-Eleven Active-duty service members, retired, veteran, guard, reservists and family members get a free coffee or Big Gulp on November 11. (7-Eleven app may be required and some loca-

Angry Crab Shack

Blue Clover Distillery

tions). Military ID and veteran ID required. 5925 W. Olive Avenue, Glendale, 623931-0781, 7-eleven.com. Angry Crab Shack Angry Crab Shack offers 10% off yearround for all military with a valid ID at all locations. 310 N. Litchﬁeld Road, Goodyear, 480878-6900, angrycrabshack.com.

Black Angus

Black Angus Steakhouse From 3 to 9 p.m. on November 11, Black Angus Steakhouses will offer veterans the

All-American Steak Plate for $10.99. Available for restaurant dining and takeaway orders, participating guests can expect an 8-ounce certified angus beef top sirloin, mashed potatoes, broccoli with garlic butter and a nonalcoholic beverage. 7606 W. Bell Road, Glendale, 623878.6200, blackangus.com. Blue Clover Distillery Blue Clover Distillery will offer a 20% discount on each veteran’s entire bill. 7042 E. Indian School Road, Scottsdale, 480-946-1062, bluecloverdistillery.com.

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2020 |

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BUSINESS

Kasai Japanese Steakhouse

480-348-2337 hopdoddy.com. Fired Pie

Kasai Japanese Steakhouse Kasai Japanese Steakhouse is offering veterans 50% off their entrée on Veterans Day. 14344 N. Scottsdale Road, Scottsdale, 480-607-1114, kasaiscottsdale.com.

Buffalo Wild Wings Veterans and active-duty service members get a free order of 10 boneless wings and fries on November 11. The offer is available for dine-in or takeout. 9404 W. Westgate Boulevard, Glendale, 623-877-9127, buffalowildwings. com. Chili’s Veterans and active-duty service members get a free meal from a select menu on November 11. Available for dine-in only. 10237 N. Metro Parkway, Phoenix, 602-997-4600, chilis.com. Cracker Barrel Cracker Barrel is giving veterans the choice between a free Double Chocolate Fudge Coca-Cola Cake dessert, a slice of fruit cobbler or its All-American apple pie. 1209 N. Litchfield Road, Goodyear, 623-856-5161, crackerbarrel.com. Dickey’s Barbecue Pit Dickey’s Barbecue Pit is offering a free pulled pork classic sandwich on November 11. 10005 W. McDowell Road, Suite 101, Avondale, 623-936-2011, dickeys.com. Fired Pie Fired Pie will offer a free entrée to all vets who show their ID or are in uniform on November 11 for Veterans Day. The company also offers a 10% discount yearround to veterans. This deal is valid for one per person only, not valid through third-party delivery services. 6800 N. 95th Avenue, Suite 870, Tanger Outlets, Glendale, 623-872-2222, firedpie.com.

Grimaldi’s Pizzeria

Grimaldi’s Pizzeria Grimaldi’s Pizzeria offers 15% off yearround with the military discount to active, retired and veterans at all Grimaldi’s locations outside of New York, New Jersey and Connecticut. 9788 W. Northern Avenue, Suite 1440, Peoria, 623-486-4455, grimaldispizzeria. com. Hopdoddy Burger Bar On November 11, Hopdoddy Burger Bar is offering a free classic burger (with or without cheese) to all veterans and active military service members. Qualified recipients can show their military ID or uniform to claim their free burger. This offer is redeemable for in-store dining or to-go orders placed by phone. 11055 N. Scottsdale Road, Scottsdale,

Hopdoddy Burger Bar

Sound of Freedom | NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2020

Little Caesars Veterans and active-duty military members can visit Little Caesars from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. November 11 for a free $5 lunch combo. 5127 W. Glendale Avenue, Glendale, 623-934-3307, littlecaesars.com. Lucille’s Smokehouse Bar-B-Que Veterans receive 20% off the entire month of November for Military Family Month. 2030 E. Rio Salado Parkway, Tempe, 480-966-7427, lucillesbbq.com. Macayo’s All day on November 11, all active and nonactive military personnel and veterans are invited to enjoy one free entrée at any Macayo’s restaurant. Offer available for dine-in, takeout or Macayo’s delivery. 1474 N. Litchﬁeld Road, Goodyear, 623209-7000, macayo.com. Original Breakfast House From Saturday, November 7, to Wednesday, November 11, Original Breakfast House will roll out specials and events to show appreciation to its customers and the hospitality industry as well as to honor and recognize veterans. Visit originalbreakfasthouse.com for details. 13623 N. 32nd Street, Phoenix, 602-4822328. Pedal Haus Brewery Locally owned Pedal Haus Brewery is supporting those who have served by offering all military personnel and veterans 20% off all food and drinks on Veterans Day as

BUSINESS S&V Urban Italian S&V Urban Italian is giving veterans a free meal with a purchase of another entrée of equal or lesser value. 9343 E. Shea Boulevard, Suite 100, Scottsdale, 480-451-1850, sandvurbanitalian.com.

Pedal Haus Brewery

well as half off any merchandise that day. 730 S. Mill Avenue, Suite 102, Centerpoint on Mill, Tempe, 480-314-2337, pedalhausbrewery.com.

Tap House Grill Veterans and active-duty service members get a free meal on November 11. Dine-in only. 3131 E. Shea Boulevard Phoenix, 602482-2800, taphousekitchen.com.

Red Robin Veterans and active-duty service members who are Red Robin Royalty members can redeem a free Tavern Double Burger with steak fries any time between November 12 and November 30 for dine-in or to-go orders. The offer will be automatically uploaded to the dashboard. 16233 N. 83rd Avenue, Peoria, 623-3344600, redrobin.com.

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White Castle White Castle is giving out a free combo meal (Nos. 1 to 6) or a free breakfast combo meal to veterans and active-duty service members on Veterans Day. 9310 E. Via de Ventura, Scottsdale, 480291-5700, whitecastle.com. Yard House Veterans and active-duty service members receive a complimentary appetizer on November 11. 9401 W. Westgate Boulevard, Westgate Entertainment District, Glendale, 623872-3900, yardhouse.com.

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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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F E AT U R E

Training Partnership

Joint training makes Australia’s F-35 mission fully operational

Royal Australian Air Force Maj. Christopher Baker, 61st Fighter Squadron instructor pilot, and U.S. Air Force Lt. Col. Tom Hayes, 61st FS commander, pose for a photo at Luke Air Force Base. The U.S. Air Force is strengthening alliances and partnerships by training F-35A Lightning II fighter pilots alongside the RAAF since 2014. All RAAF personnel are scheduled to return to RAAF Base Williamtown, Australia, by December. The first B-course for the student pilots at RAAF Base Williamtown is projected to launch in January and will be taught by instructor pilots that trained at Luke AFB. (U.S. Air Force photo by Airman 1st Class Brooke Moeder)

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

uke Air Force Base is fulfilling Secretary of Defense Mark Esper’s national defense priority of strengthening alliances and partnerships by training alongside the Royal Australian Air Force. The Royal Australian Air Force returned a majority of its F-35A Lightning II pilots, maintainers and aircraft to RAAF Base Williamtown, Australia, in December 2019 but still maintains a joint pilot-training and maintenance presence here.

RAAF Maj. Christopher Baker, 61st Fighter Squadron instructor pilot and graduate of the F-35A pilot training program at Luke, attests to the importance of the training partnership between the U.S. Air Force and the RAAF. He explained it is extremely rewarding to reinvest and train both nationalities in the same aircraft with the same tactics. “I feel like we contribute something to the U.S. Air Force training mission by bringing our own unique perspectives, configuration, roles and environments to the mission, just like the U.S. Air Force mission brings that to us as well,” Baker says. “I think that’s what’s really useful about it being combined.” According to U.S. Air Force Lt. Col. Tom

Sound of Freedom | NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2020

Hayes, 61st FS commander, three components enable the successful integration of the RAAF and the U.S. Air Force: the platform, common tactics and the objective of training the world’s most capable fighter pilots. “Other than the way the aircraft is painted, they’re all exactly the same, so we have that common platform of flying the F-35,” Hayes says. “The common tactic is sharing the same training strategies between the RAAF and the U.S. Air Force.” Baker says the coronavirus delayed some of the RAAF student pilot training, but the student pilots are determined to complete their SEE AUSTRALIA PAGE 28

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F E AT U R E AUSTRALIA FROM PAGE 26 requirements swiftly and efficiently. “I am continually amazed at how the students learn so quickly,” Baker says. “They come in the door knowing very little or nothing about the F-35, and four or five months later, they’re flying high-end large force-employment exercise missions with multiple aircraft involved in a dense surface-to-air missile threat scenario.” The chances of the RAAF and the U.S. Air Force working together in a deployed environment is very likely, according to Baker. “Most of the Australian pilots that have come through here at Luke have worked with the U.S. Air Force before in the Middle East,” Baker says. “I don’t think you’d meet many RAAF or U.S. Air Force pilots that haven’t interacted with each other before in some capacity, either operationally or in an exercise somewhere.” The RAAF and U.S. Air Force student pilots complete the same nine-month undergraduate training course, where pilots learn how to operate and employ the F-35. Australian and U.S. instructor pilots lead the training during courses, Hayes says. “Our mission, which aligns with the 61st

mission, is to train the world’s most capable fighter pilots,” Baker says. “For Australia, we train pilots and maintainers here at Luke. We will continue beyond the end of 2020 to use Luke as a staging ground for jet deliveries to be brought back to Australia.” The maintenance training concluded in early 2020 due to COVID-19, although pilot training will continue to December 2020. Baker explains that the RAAF established one operational and one training F-35A squadron at RAAF Base Williamtown and plans to establish another operational squadron in January 2021. As of October 2020, five RAAF F-35s are assigned to the 61st FS. The first F-35 was delivered to RAAF Base Williamtown in 2018, and the 30th F-35 is scheduled to return to Australia by December 2020. Seventy-two F-35s are ordered, and the last one is projected to be delivered to Australia by 2024. Baker says the RAAF is aiming to declare Initial Operational Capability—when a capability achieves its minimum threshold to support operations—by December 2020, ahead of the timeline. The RAAF’s first B-course for student pilot training is scheduled to launch in January 2021 and will be taught by instructor

pilots who trained at Luke AFB. In 2019, 34 fighter pilots were assigned to the 61st Fighter Squadron, and 17 were RAAF pilots. As of October, there are five RAAF instructor pilots, seven student pilots and two maintainers who continue to execute the joint training partnership mission. Hayes says Luke will continue to maintain an alliance with the RAAF in the future through exchange programs. “To be able to keep those formal connections, we’re heavily looking into exchange programs where we’re actively trying to get one of our pilots to get an exchange assignment at RAAF Base Williamtown,” Hayes says. “They would serve over there for two or three years, just like we have exchange assignments with other partners. The Air Force Personnel Center (AFPC) is actively seeking applications to send.” The joint pilot training at Luke AFB makes RAAF’s F-35 mission fully operational in Australia. “It’s more than we just wear the same patches,” Hayes says. “There’s a deeper meaning to what this partnership does here at Luke, and it has strategic level implications.”

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BUSINESS

Tickets for Veterans Company sets virtual event to continue mission BY CONNOR DZIAWURA

eteran Tickets Foundation set its own records in the first quarter of 2019. Also known as Vet Tix, the nonprofit that provides event tickets to all branches of current military and veterans, as well as families of those killed in action, had been gaining momentum up through the early part of 2020. “We did better in those three months (Q1 2019) than we had in any previous year in those three months,” explains Edward Rausch, COO of Vet Tix. “In 2020, up through the middle of March, we were on pace to increase year over by another 60%.” The Tempe organization, which was founded in 2008 and partners with sports teams, leagues,

promoters, organizations, venues and ticket holders across the nation to acquire free tickets for veterans to request, was nearing its 10 millionth ticket in the early part of 2020. Then COVID-19 hit. Of all the industries impacted, the events world was hit especially hard, making Vet Tix the next domino to fall. At first, Rausch thought it would be temporary, maybe lasting a month or few. It’s now fall, and many events are still halted. Rausch says the organization is down nearly 99% year over year, not to mention being forced to reduce its overhead costs by more than 75%, including furloughs and salary cuts. “It’s been a deep impact,” Rausch says. “Vet Tix, as an organization, we learned early on that you really couldn’t count on grants and funding from other sources. We really needed to figure out a way to be self-sufficient—so we had been for quite a while, but it was all dependent on there actually being live events and tickets flowing through the system.

Sound of Freedom | NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2020

Support Vet Tix 2020 will feature entertainers such as Trans-Siberian Orchestra and Tommy Shaw and Styx (above) from 2 to 6 p.m. EST Saturday, November 21. (Photo courtesy Styx)

“It gave us the ability to charge a small delivery fee (to receive tickets) that helped us maintain and be able to stay relevant and operational and create salaries for people that were giving so much time and spending so much time actually cultivating these relationships with our partners and these donors. Without live events, that all dried up, and so now we’re trying to figure out other ways to maintain and stay relevant, stay operational.” That’s where Support Vet Tix 2020 comes in. Scheduled to air from 2 to 6 p.m. EST Saturday, November 21, the free virtual online event will tell the nonprofit’s story and mission; feature donors, partners and past ticket recipients, called “VetTixers”; and include entertainment. Rausch could only confirm Trans-Siberian Orchestra as well as Tommy Shaw and Styx for entertainers; others are still in the works and, consequently, under wraps, he says. Event sponsors include Live Nation, the Baltimore Ravens, the Goodyear Cotton Bowl and

BUSINESS iHeartMedia. The event is co-produced by Heather Rausch and JoAnn Holland. Donations are welcome at vettix.org/c/supportvettix. For more information on programming or sponsorships, contact events@vettix. org. Vet Tix is about bringing families together and creating memories, Rausch says. “We’ve always found that when we do things, if it’s the right course of action, that things just tend to fall into place; and that’s what’s happened here with this, is we’ve started moving down this path and we’ve started getting some support from some of our great donors and we’re starting to get some content and buy-in,” Rausch says. “We find that not only is it the VetTixers that miss being able to get the tickets to these events and spend quality family time together but it’s the venues and the organizations and the donors themselves that miss being able to have them attend and give back and say ‘thank you.’” As far as returning to normal operations, Rausch is hopeful. “For us, it would mean a lot to get to 2021. We anticipate that the concert season will come back and maybe be twice as robust this year,” he

says, acknowledging the pandemic’s impact on everything from concerts to sports. “We anticipate starting up again late March/early April this next year.” In the meantime, Rausch says Vet Tix has dipped its toes into providing tickets to virtual events in recent months, but the focus has been behind the scenes. That includes partnerships with various major ticketing platforms as well as software improvements and automation to allow the organization to Vet Tix COO Edward Rausch is hopeful the nonprofit will return handle more tickets without to normal operations soon. In the meantime, a virtual event is error and in wider windows. set for November 21. (Photo by Pablo Robles) “It’s just been kind of a “But again, without there really being fans pivot,” he says. “We knew that there weren’t really going to be much in attendance, the focus was cleaning out in the way of live events. There started to be the software on the back end, making sure some online, virtual-type stuff—concerts and that our systems were really dialed in, and comedy shows and things like that—so we’ve that’s been a big focus, because we did want gone that direction and we’ve been able to offer to come out of this and be ready to hit the some of that to our folks. ground running.”

WE’RE SAVING YOU A SEAT. Litchfield’s has reopened at The Wigwam! Pull up a seat for indoor and outdoor dining as our uber-popular eatery has reopened and is serving up farm-to-table seasonal fare, handcrafted cocktails, and award-winning ambiance. Open every Wednesday to Saturday, Litchfield’s is the perfect place to come together with family or friends over friendly service and fresh, locally sourced ingredients, all under the picture-perfect Arizona sky. Book your table today by calling 877.881.9405

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NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2020 |

Sound of Freedom

E D U C AT I O N

Making It Happen at GCC Dean Yeager goes from tank driver to honors student BY JOHN HECKENLAIBLE Sound of Freedom Contributing Writer

fter 26 years of active duty in the U.S. Army, Dean Yeager is finding his future at Glendale Community College. Originally from the Sacramento area, Yeager joined the Army and spent his first seven years in a M1 A1/A2 Abrams as a driver, gunner and finally commander. He moved into logistics for a few years and finished out his enlistment in mortuary affairs. A few years after being honorably discharged, he was working with his vocational rehab counselor and he expressed how Dean Yeager is a U.S. Army, much he enjoyed his second job in the Army—logistics. retired, veteran and current GCC The precision and need for detailed procedures appealed to honors student. (Photo courtesy GCC) him. Yeager lives in Glendale and, based on this and his interests, his counselor suggested that he go to GCC and then transfer to ASU West. When asked about his time at GCC, he says, “My instructors have Yeager agreed and gave Glendale Community College a try. He all been great, and that has kept me here. I could have transferred to worked with his adviser in the GCC Veterans Services Center, who ASU West a while ago, but I enjoy GCC so much that I decided to stick mapped out a pathway that will give Yeager all the classes he needs to around here.” transfer seamlessly over to ASU West. During his free time, Yeager likes riding his modded-out Harley DaRight now, he is taking managerial accounting, business calculus, vidsons, scuba diving and volunteering his time at the GCC Veterans macroeconomics and geology. The last one is just for fun. Services Center. Stop by the Veterans Services Center for a chat with “I’ve always been somewhat of a rockhound.” Yeager says. “I’ve col- Yeager. He’ll explain how you can get your future started at GCC or he lected rocks from all over the United States and everywhere I’ve been will tell you what it was like to tour Europe on a Harley. stationed, including Germany, Belgium, Bulgaria, Afghanistan, Iraq and The Glendale Community College Veterans Services Center is a oneSouth Korea. I even have a rock that I got from the bottom of Lake Pleas- stop shop for veterans and their dependents who want to improve their ant the first time I went scuba diving.” lives through higher education. Yeager has a natural talent for logistics and enjoys math, so a degree in GCC provides a wide range of academic opportunities, from certifisupply chain management seemed a natural fit. His aptitude, drive and cates of completion to degrees and from refresher classes to getting credknowledge are born out by his success at GCC. He is a member of the its while working toward transferring to a university, starting a career or GCC Honors Program, the national Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society, climbing the ladder at a current workplace. plus he recently received an Outstanding Student Achievement award, Glendale Community College has two locations serving the West Valwhich is given to remarkable students who have been nominated by in- ley—6000 W. Olive Avenue, Glendale, and 5727 W. Happy Valley Road, structors. Phoenix. For more information, visit gccaz.edu.

Sound of Freedom | NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2020

PROUDLY WELCOMING HOME THE VALLEY’S HOMETOWN HEROES Come discover Mattamy’s thoughtful home and community design – found in some of the most desirable locations in the Phoenix valley. Visit our Sales Centers and we’ll show you how to make a new Mattamy home your very own.

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*Offer is limited to active and disabled military and actively employed firefighters, police officers, emergency medical technicians and teachers that purchase their home directly from Mattamy Homes. Must show proof of employment to be eligible for offer. Offer available on new homes at Mattamy communities throughout the Phoenix metropolitan area if the home purchase agreement is fully executed between 11/1/2020-1/31/2021. Home purchase agreements fully executed prior to 11/1/2020 are excluded. Offers, incentives and seller contributions are subject to certain terms, conditions and restrictions, which may include use of designated lenders and closing agents. Certain incentives could affect the loan amount. Offer good for a limited time only. Mattamy reserves the right to change or withdraw any offer at any time. Prices subject to change without notice. Offer is subject to borrower meeting approval guidelines. Rates and terms are subject to change without notice. Contact a Mattamy Home Funding LLC Loan Officer for financing details, or a Mattamy Homes New Home Counselor for home purchase details. Speak with a Mattamy Homes New Home Counselor for full details. E. & E.O. AZ ROC #249191B. MATPHX009 11/20

DISTRIBUTION CENTER 6031 BUCKEYE Make it happen at Glendale

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Enroll for spring semester – you get affordable tuition, flexible schedules, and 100’s of courses. Register today enroll-gcc.com

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The Maricopa Community College District does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, disability or age in its programs or activities. For Title IX/504 concerns, call the following number to reach the appointed coordinator: (480) 731-8499. For additional information, as well as a listing of all coordinators within the Maricopa College system, visit: www.maricopa.edu/non-discrimination

HONORING OUR

HEROES As a "Thank You" to those who have or are currently serving in the military, or as a firefighter, police officer, or a teacher we'd like to give you a special discount on a brand new home! Apply 1% of the base price of a new home from Woodside Homes Arizona toward the home options of your choice. Choose from hundreds of upgrades and create your own wonderful place to call home_because you've done the same for us.

FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT OUR ONLINE SALES PROFESSIONALS BELOW

Terry Barson

Sara Fritz

MyNewHome-Arizona@woodsidehomes.com 623-469-0153 In an effort to continually improve our plans and designs, Woodside Homes reserves the right to make modifications in materials, plans and specifications without prior notice. Prices are subject to change without notice. This advertisement is for illustration purposes only and not part of a legal contract. Models do not reflect racial or other demographic preferences. Eligibility: The program provides a credit towards home options in the amount of 1% of the base price of the new home. This discount program is available for active and retired military, and currently full-time employed firefighters, police officers, and teachers with current teaching certificates/degrees. Confirmation of service/employment required. The home must be used for a personal residence. The program is valid for sales contracts signed from 1/1/2020 to 12/31/2020. The program may be discontinued at any time without notice. If you are working with a REALTOR, they must accompany and register you on your first visit. See sales professional for full details. 01/2020

Sound of Freedom | NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2020

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Sound of Freedom

H E A LT H & W E L L N E S S Airman MSgt Amanda Layton from Luke AFB was among the first responders who donated convalescent plasma at Vitalant’s press conference to announce Operation Warp Speed. (Photo courtesy Vitalant)

Urgently Needed BY SUE THEW Sound of Freedom Contributing Writer

he nation’s largest independent blood provider, Vitalant, has teamed with Operation Warp Speed, a national program launched to double convalescent plasma donations. Currently, 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. Convalescent plasma is the only antibody treatment approved by the FDA as an Emergency Use Authorization to help critically ill COVID-19 patients. Metro Phoenix has been designated as one of 14 regions across the country to implement Operation Warp Speed as a previous coronavirus hotspot with a high number of COVID-19 survivors and potential donors. Following a Vitalant press conference to announce Operation Warp Speed, recovered COVID-19 first responders from Luke Air Force Base and the Phoenix police and fire

Vitalant is testing all blood donations for COVID-19 antibodies. The test indicates if donors’ immune systems have produced antibodies to the virus, regardless of whether they ever showed symptoms. departments donated convalescent plasma for the media. 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 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. Vitalant is testing all blood donations for COVID-19 antibodies. The test indicates if

Sound of Freedom | NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2020

donors’ immune systems have produced antibodies to the virus, regardless of whether they ever showed symptoms. While a positive antibody test does not indicate if someone has COVID-19, it does mean that they may be eligible to donate convalescent plasma and help people who are still recovering from coronavirus infection. Blood donors can log on to their Vitalant confidential donor portal to access test results within two weeks after their donation. For more information, visit vitalant.org/antibodytest. The Arizona patient need for convalescent plasma is outpacing donations by 44%, so donors are urgently needed. To donate convalescent plasma, recovered COVID-19 patients must meet eligibility requirements, including a prior laboratory diagnosis of COVID-19, either by a positive swab test or a positive test for SARS-CoV-2 antibodies. They must also be symptom free for at least 28 days and meet all additional FDA requirements for automated plasma donations. For more information about convalescent plasma donations, visit vitalant.org/COVIDfree.

VETERANS

VETERANS IN SURPRISE!

Due to COVID-19, our traditional Veterans Day Parade was replaced with a video and signage campaign to honor our military heroes. November 10-12: Drive along Bullard Avenue near Surprise Stadium to see signs created by our residents showing the community’s gratitude.

On or after November 11 (Veterans Day): Visit the City of Surprise social media channels to watch a video of messages sent in from the community, honoring veterans.

AND THEIR SPOUSES OR WIDOWS… Burial Service at National Cemetery of Arizona is FREE for those who have served our country with military service either in WARTIME or PEACETIME, and have been honorably discharged. This sevice is also FREE for your spouse and dependent children. Included in this service is your cemetery lot, grave liner, opening and closing grave and a grave marker. Benefits also include the interment of cremated remains.

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Sound of Freedom

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Square footage and dimensions are estimated and may vary in actual construction. Floor plans and elevations are artist’s conception and are not intended to show specifi c detailing. Floor plans are the property of Cachet Homes and its affi liates. For further information, please see Sales Associate. All sales are subject to buyers receipt and review of a Arizona Subdivision Public Report. *See Sales Associate for incentive information. Prices, features, floor plans, elevations and incentives subject to change without notice.

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Derekson Queen Panel Bed 288 $

(B200-QPBED) • Includes Headboard, Footboard and Rails (Mattress and comforter

set not included) • King Bed $388 • Full Size Bed $278 • Twin Bed $248 • Dresser 298 • Mirror $78 • Lingerie Chest $248 • 5-Drawer Chest $278 • Nightstand $158

Queen Mattress

368

Twin Mattress $258/Set $348 Twin XL Mattress $298/Set $398 • 800 Pocketed Coils Full Mattress $328/Set $448 • DualCool Technology Queen Mattress $368/Set $498 • Lumbar Support Gel $ $ King Mattress 598/Set 798 Memory Foam

While Supplies Last ^Available in Store Only

AFW.com GILBERT, AZ (480) 500-4121 202 Santan Freeway & S. Power Rd. 4700 S. Power Rd., Gilbert, AZ 85296

GLENDALE, AZ (602) 422-8800 101 & Cardinals Way across from State Farm Stadium 5801 N. 99th Ave., Glendale, AZ 85305