RANDOLPH AIR FORCE BASE 65th Year • No. 13 • APRIL 1, 2011
Transcription
RANDOLPH AIR FORCE BASE 65th Year • No. 13 • APRIL 1, 2011
A publication of the 502nd Air Base Wing – Joint Base San Antonio RANDOLPH AIR FORCE BASE 65th Year • No. 13 • APRIL 1, 2011 Page 12 INSIDE ... FIRE SAFETY TIPS FOR SPRING, P3 ... JBSA PRESENCE IN LOCAL COMMUNITY, P 4 ... CHARGIN’ CHEETAHS HOST PILOT FOR A DAY, P8 ... PAGE 2 WINGSPREAD COMMENTARY AF leadership: Sexual assault a crime APRIL 1, 2011 ON THE COVER Staff Sgt. Christina Blake, Randolph Air Force Base Honor Guard, waits for a wreath-laying ceremony in honor of America’s military heroes who never made it home from war to begin at the Missing Man Monument at Randolph March 25. For more on the event, see Page 12. Photo by Don Lindsey WINGSPREAD 502nd Air Base Wing Operating Location Bravo Editorial Staff Brig. Gen. Leonard Patrick Commander Marilyn Holliday Chief of Public Affairs Airman 1st Class Precious Yett Editor Robert Goetz, Brian McGloin Airman Alexis Siekert Staff Writers Maggie Armstrong Graphic Designer Wingspread Office 1150 5th Street East Randolph AFB, Texas 78150 Phone: (210) 652-5760 Fax: (210) 652-3142 Wingspread Advertisements Prime Time Military Newspapers 2203 S. Hackberry San Antonio, Texas 78210 Phone: (210) 534-8848 Wingspread e-mail [email protected] This paper is published by Prime Time Military Newspapers, a private firm in no way connected with the U.S. Air Force, under exclusive written contract with Randolph AFB, Texas. This commercial enterprise Air Force newspaper is an authorized publication for members of the U.S. military services. Contents of the Wingspread are not necessarily the official views of, or endorsed by, the U.S. Government, the Department of Defense, or the Department of the Air Force. The appearance of advertising in this publication, including inserts or supplements, does not constitute endorsement by the Department of Defense, the Department of the Air Force, or Prime Time Military Newspapers of the products or services advertised. Everything advertised in this publication shall be made available for purchase, use or patronage without regard to the race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, marital status, physical or mental handicap, political affiliation, or any other non-merit factor of the purchaser, user, or patron. Editorial content is edited, prepared and provided by the Public Affairs Division of the 502nd Air Base Wing OL-B in accordance with local policy and style guidance. All photos, unless otherwise indicated, are U.S. Air Force photos. Articles for the newspaper should be submitted by noon Thursday the week prior to the desired publication date. Items can be dropped off on a PC- or Macintosh-formatted disk at the Wingspread office in Hangar 6. Articles for submission may also be sent by e-mail to [email protected]. For details about submissions, call 652-5760. APRIL 1, 2011 WINGSPREAD PAGE 3 Focus on fire safety during spring cleaning Spring is here and for many that means it’s time for spring cleaning. The Lackland Fire Department reminds Joint Base San Antonio members to keep safety in mind and offers the following tips: Filters • Check the furnace filter once a month and replace or clean as needed. Some filters are reusable and may be removed, washed with a hose and reinserted. A dirty filter lowers the efficiency of heating and cooling systems, increases costs and can cause fires. • Clean the kitchen exhaust hood and air filter. Electrical system • Look for burn marks at the main electrical panel; they can be a sign of arcing inside the panel, often caused by loose connections or damaged insulation, which can easily lead to a fire. Only a qualified electrician should remove the front panel cover. • Trip and reset the circuit breakers regularly. • Remove combustible materials such as boxes or flammable liquids away from the main electrical panel. • Check all electrical outlets for loose-fitting plugs, an indication of a worn-out receptacle. Worn receptacles can cause overheating and fires and should be replaced. • Have a qualified electrician diagnose and fix any switches, outlets or receptacles that aren’t working. Electrical outlets and switches that aren’t working properly can cause fires inside the walls of your house. • Install safety covers to help protect children from elec- trical shock. Any appliance or tool that gives even the slightest shock should be unplugged and checked by an electrician or repair shop. Light bulbs • Make sure light bulbs are the correct wattage recommended by the light fixture manufacturer. If the wattage limit of a fixture is exceeded, heat produced inside the fixture can lead to fire inside the fixture, ceiling or wall. Air conditioner Air-conditioning systems should be regularly inspected and maintained by a professional air-conditioning contractor. Maintenance should include: • cleaning the evaporator coil • lubricating fans and motors • tightening or changing the belts • checking electrical safeties • checking the drain pan for leaks • testing the capacitors • checking the condensate drain • testing the crankcase heater • calibrating the thermostat • visually checking the wiring for potential short circuits • checking the condensation hose for blockage • cleaning the outside condensing unit screen of leaves and listening for unusual noises Water heaters • Check to make sure gas-fired water heaters are venting properly. Improper ventilation can cause carbon monoxide and other combustibles to build up in the home. Light a match next to the vent and wave it out (don’t blow it out). The smoke should be pulled up into the vent. If it isn’t, a professional should inspect and repair the heater. • Check around the base of the water heater for evidence of leaks. If the water heater is more than five years old, it should be checked monthly for any leakage or rusting at the bottom. If water leakage or rust is found, the water heater should be replaced. Clothes dryer • Clean the clothes dryer exhaust duct, damper and space under the dryer. Poor maintenance allows lint to build up in the exhaust duct and cause fire. General safety • Replace all brittle, worn or damaged extension cords. Exposed wires may cause arcing, which will produce heat and can start a fire. Keep appliances and their power cords away from water or a heat source because this will damage the cord’s insulation. • Review fire escape plans with your family. • Always have a multi-purpose fire extinguisher accessible. Make sure it is Underwriters Laboratories, or UL, listed or Factory Mutual, or FM approved, and check the gauges to make sure they are charged and ready to use. • Inspect and clean dust from the covers of smoke and carbon monoxide alarms. (Courtesy of Lackland Air Force Base Fire Department) Tech. Sgt. Norman Williams III 561st Network Operation Squadron, Det. 2 Duty Title: NCO in charge of network protection Pet Peeve: Tyler, Texas I would love to be a CEO of a fortune 500 company Hometown: Hobbies: Motorcycles, auto mechanics, woodworking, remote control planes and cars, basketball and computers Greatest Accomplishment: Owned my own custom motorcycle and car shop Personal Inspiration: My parents, who have sacrificed so much so I could be successful Personal Motto: Photo by David Terry You are only as successful as the people you associate with. People who say they can’t do something Goals: Commander’s Comments: “Tech. Sgt. Norman Williams is a very dedicated and enthusiastic member of the unit. He has developed a vision and plan of action for his work center and executed it with great results. His positive attitude, focus on the mission and goal-oriented approach will have long-lasting positive impacts on his Airman, the detachment’s mission and the Air Force’s cyber security. I’m proud to have him as a member of the team.” Maj. Mickey Evans 561st Network Operatioin Squadron, Det. 2 commander PAGE 4 WINGSPREAD APRIL 1, 2011 NEWS JBSA partners with San Antonio-area schools By Shannon Carabajal 502nd Air Base Wing OL-A Public Affairs Photo by Robbin Cresswell Joint Base San Antonio senior leaders and school superintendents from three counties pose around a declaration signed by Dr. John Folks, Northside Independent School District superintendent, which pledges his support to the Destination Tomorrow’s Leaders program, a partnership benefitting school children and making a positive impact on the community at the Gateway Club at Lackland Air Force Base on March 24. Joint Base San Antonio senior leaders and school superintendents from three counties joined forces to create a partnership benefitting school children and making a positive impact on the community during a ceremony March 24 at the Gateway Club at Lackland Air Force Base. Reaching more than 20,000 children across 23 local school districts, the multifaceted Destination To m o r r o w ’s L e a d e r s p r o g r a m ensures every student, regardless of home environment, has at least one positive role model. The largest components of DTL are the Adopt-AClassroom and mentoring programs. The program aims to improve academic achievement, self-esteem and social competence while avoiding problem and high-risk behavior by providing a relationship with a caring adult friend working to help youth achieve their potential. Superintendents from 10 San Antonio-area school districts signed a declaration during the ceremony pledging their support to DTL. Keith Toney, a Fort Sam Houston school liaison officer, said bringing everybody together was an important milestone. “Our local education agencies have a long history of supporting our military children. By signing this declaration, they are agreeing to (adopt) policies and practices inherent in the DTL program” which will lead to a more consistent and uniform mentoring program benefiting all children, Mr. Toney said. “I am thrilled that this new partnership will allow our relationship with the military to grow even deeper and serve so many more students,” said Dr. John Folks, superintendent of Northside Independent School District. He added that children in San Antonio face many challenges which can affect school performance. See JBSA P8 JBSA takes part in disaster relief planning By Brent Boller 502nd Air Base Wing Public Affairs The Atlantic hurricane season officially begins June 1, so Joint Base San Antonio leadership and staff met last week at the San Antonio Emergency Operations Center at Brooks City-Base to review the process for requesting military aid by state and local governments. District Fire Chief Larry Trevino is the soon-tobe appointed emergency management coordinator for the City of San Antonio. “It’s good to see who we need to call,” Trevino said as he addressed Maj. Gen. (Dr.) Byron Hepburn, 59th Medical Wing commander, and Brig. Gen. Leonard Patrick, 502nd Air Base Wing/Joint Base San Antonio commander. Two natural disaster nightmare scenarios keep some Texas emergency planners up at night, according to Col. Sean Kavanagh, emergency preparedness liaison officer for Texas. One event is a category four or five hurricane affecting the Rio Grande Valley resulting in catastrophic flooding. Kavanagh said some one to two million people could be evacuated and head north to San Antonio. Kavanagh said the other disaster would involve an earthquake along the New Madrid Fault which affects several southern and Midwestern states. Quakes along this fault line in the early 1800s rang church bells on the east coast and caused the Mississippi River to run backwards. A quake today in this now densely populated area would likely result in massive death and property damage. San Antonio would almost certainly become an evacuation point in both scenarios and during any other natural or manmade disaster that threatened Texas or surrounding states. That’s when Joint Base San Antonio installations could be asked by state and local authorities to provide major support in evacuee and aircraft sheltering, transportation, medical care and other needs. The Joint Base structure mandated by the 2005 Base Realignment and Closure legislation streamlines the process for requesting military resources. “Civil authorities now have one point of contact for requesting help, and that’s the 502nd Air Base Wing,” said General Leonard Patrick. “In the past they had to contact each base.” Photo by Brent Boller Brig. Gen. Leonard Patrick (right), 502nd Air Base Wing/Joint Base San Antonio commander, speaks at a briefing on Defense Support of Civil Authorities in the event of a natural or man-made disaster, as Maj. Gen. (Dr.) Byron Hepburn, 59th Medical Wing commander, looks on. APRIL 1, 2011 WINGSPREAD PAGE 5 Proclamation recognizes issues on Randolph By Airman Alexis Siekert 502nd Air Base Wing OL-B Public Affairs Randolph leadership this month is taking the opportunity to raise awareness of problems that affect mission readiness and members of the base community. April is now recognized at Randolph as Month of the Military Child, Child Abuse Prevention Month, Alcohol Awareness Month and Sexual Assault Awareness Month, with the theme, “Hurts one. Affects all. It’s everyone’s duty.” Col. Scott Peel, 902nd Mission Support Group commander, met with organization representatives for the signing of the proclamation March 21, in front of the Taj Mahal. The proclamation addresses these issues as ongoing psychosocial problems in our society which greatly affect the community. The Randolph Family Advocacy Program, Alcohol and Drug Abuse Prevention and Treatment Program, Sexual Assault Prevention and Response Program, Airman and Family Readiness Center and other integrated delivery system agencies will work collaboratively as the action arm of the community to implement and promote prevention and support programs to curb incidents of, and risk for, child maltreatment, alcohol abuse and sexual assault. “This is part of something the Air Force is emphasizing as a whole,” said Tech. Sgt. Brian Hornberger, 359th Medical Operations Squadron Mental Health flight chief. “We need to make responsible and proper risk-mitigating choices. Don’t put yourself in the wrong place at the wrong time.” “The proclamation signing for Sexual Assault Awareness Month dedicates the month of April to officially recognize the problem of sexual assault within our Air Force, offering support and information to service members and their families on our programs here in hopes of preventing sexual assaults from occurring,” said Jacqueline Shiflet, Randolph Air Force Base, sexual assault response coordinator. All month long, events are planned to promote awareness and offer education. Starting today, information booths are open at the Rambler Fitness Center and Randolph Clinic. In addition, the Sexual Assault Prevention and Response Program presents Dr. Christopher Kilmartin, a comedian and professor of psychology at the University of Mary Washington, for a mandatory briefing for all airmen to staff sergeants and first and second lieutenants at the base theater Tuesday at 10 a.m. However, all others are highly encouraged to attend, Ms. Shiflet said. The Sexual Assault Prevention and Response Program will also be at Kids Day in the Park along with many other helping agencies San Antonio-wide. The event, hosted by the San Antonio Association for the Education of Young Children, is a fun-filled day promoting happy, healthy families to reduce the number of children at risk for abuse or neglect. This year’s event will again be held at San Pedro Springs Park April 9 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Members of the child care, arts, cultural, health and social service communities will provide free, fun, developmentally appropriate activities and events for young children and their families, said Mitzi Wood, family advocacy intervention specialist. There will be many new and exciting booths this year, with art projects, games and special activities, as Photo by David Terry Col. Scott Peel (left), 902nd Mission Support Group commander, signs a proclamation March 21 declaring April Sexual Assault Awareness Month, Child Abuse Prevention Month, Month of the Military Child and Alcohol Awareness Month with representatives of the organizations involved. well as many performances and many other surprises. Last year, more than 10,000 people attended. “All of these programs are here to ensure people are mission ready,” Ms. Wood said. “The emphasis of the Month of the Military Child and Child Abuse Prevention Month is to encourage parents to spend time with their kids. See what they are doing. Make that extra effort to build a relationship with your kids. This will increase trust.” Also in attendance at Kids Day in the Park will be representatives from the Alcohol and Drug Abuse Prevention and Treatment Program. “We are trying to stress responsible drinking,” Sergeant Hornberger said. “Plan accordingly before going out. Remember 0013: zero drinks if you’re under the age of 21, zero drinks if have to drive driving, and no more than one drink per hour and three drinks per setting.” For more information on events happening this month or details, contact the base organizations featured. “Create better lives for our military families. Make responsible choices to ensure the Air Force continues to thrive,” he said. PAGE 6 WINGSPREAD APRIL 1, 2011 NATIONAL CHILD ABUSE PREVENTION MONTH Strong families key to reducing child abuse cases By Robert Goetz 502nd Air Base Wing OL-B Public Affairs Randolph’s Family Advocacy Program will reinforce its daily mission by participating in several special activities during National Child Abuse Prevention Month in April. The events – Kids Day in the Park, Randolph Youth Programs’ Famaganza and the Randolph Field Independent School District’s health and wellness fair – all promote this year’s Child Abuse Prevention Month theme, “Strengthening Families and Communities.” Kids Day in the Park celebrates and encourages early childhood development. A free event for the San Antonio community, it takes place April 9 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at San Pedro Springs Park, 1315 San Pedro Ave. “This fun-filled day helps promote happy, healthy families, which reduces the number of children at risk for abuse or neglect,” said Mitzi Wood, 359th Medical Operations Squadron Mental Health Flight family advocacy intervention specialist. “It’s a huge event, and it gets bigger every year.” Ms. Wood, who serves as the event’s volunteer coordinator, said last year’s Kids Day in the Park drew more than 10,000 people. She said members of the child care, arts, cultural, health and social service communities provide fun, developmentally appropri- ate activities and events for young children through 10 years of age and their families. “There will be many new and exciting booths this year, with art projects, games and special activities as well as many performances and many other surprises,” she said. Youth Programs’ Famaganza, planned for April 16 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., will focus on the theme “Growing Healthy Children Today.” Ms. Wood said the Mental Health Flight will have a booth at the event and provide informational items. “We will talk about stress and wellness,” she said. Family Advocacy will focus on anti-bullying efforts during Randolph Field Independent School District’s health and wellness fair April 30 from 9:30-11:30 a.m. in the Randolph Elementary School commons area. “We’re excited because it’s a collaborative effort involving the Randolph ISD, Youth Programs and Family Advocacy,” Ms. Wood said. “There will be information booths and videos. We’ll show parents how they can help their children cope with bullying.” She said children who see abuse at home are more at risk for becoming perpetrators or victims of bullies. One way parents can help their children avoid bullying is by teaching them how to interact socially. Ms. Wood said child abuse prevention starts with five Randolph’s newest promotion selectees protective factors – conditions in families and communities that increase the health and well-being of children and families. “One is the parents’ connectiveness to their children, which should start when the child is born,” she said. “They need to develop that bond. The father has to make sure he’s hands-on as well. If there is a bond in the early years, and parents continue with positive regard for their children, respecting them and listening to them, they are more likely to have a good relationship with their children as they move into their teenage years.” Other protective factors are understanding children’s development stages, parental resilience, creating a social network and connecting with resources, which for military parents include Military OneSource and Family Advocacy. Ms. Wood said parental resilience is important because parents who successfully manage stress and anger and handle relationship issues are healthy role models for their children. “If you’re not managing stress well, your children won’t know how to, either,” she said. For more information about the Family Advocacy Program and Child Abuse Prevention Month events, call Ms. Wood at 652-3828. JBSA plays active role in Fiesta 2011 Courtesy photo Lt. Cols. (left to right) Matt Humes, Air Education and Training Command; Tom Schmidt, AETC; Debbie Landry, Air Force Personnel Center; Otto Habedank, AETC; and Mark Gaubert, AETC; gather at a promotee party March 24 at the Parr Club to celebrate their recent selection for promotion to Colonel. Also selected for promotion are Lt. Cols. James Forand, AFPC; Ronald Jobo, AFPC; Mark Doria, AETC; and Brian Dudas, AETC. Joint Base San Antonio plays an active role in many events during the city’s 120-year-old Fiesta celebration, including the Lackland Fiesta parade April 13 and the Fiesta in Blue musical extravaganza at Trinity University’s Laurie Auditorium April 12-13. The following Fiesta 2011 events are scheduled to be held on JBSA. For a complete list of Fiesta events, visit www.fiesta-sa.org. • April 9 – 10K Walk: Caminada de Fiesta, 7:30 a.m. to noon at the Army Medical Museum, Fort Sam Houston • April 10 – Fort Sam Houston Fiesta Ceremony and Fireworks Extravaganza from 1-9 p.m. at MacArthur Field, Fort Sam Houston • April 11 – Air Force at the Alamo from 11 a.m.-12 p.m. at Alamo Plaza • April 12 and 13 – Fiesta in Blue; an Air Force Musical Extravaganza from 7-9 p.m. at Laurie Auditorium, 715 Stadium Drive, Trinity University • April 13 – Lackland Fiesta Military Parade from 9:30-10:30 a.m. at the Lackland Parade Grounds • April 14 – Navy Day at the Alamo from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Alamo Plaza • April 14 – Navy Fiesta Reception from 6-9:30 p.m at the Fort Sam Houston Golf Clubhouse, 2901 Harry Wurzbach Hwy. • April 14 – Marines at the Alamo from 4-5 p.m. at Alamo Plaza APRIL 1, 2011 WINGSPREAD PAGE 7 Dorm manager strives to go ‘above and beyond’ for Airmen By Airman 1st Class Precious Yett 502nd Air Base Wing OL-B Public Affairs Imagine being responsible for the housing needs of approximately 100 Airmen, getting them moved on-base, off-base, assisting with room inspections, maintenance needs, advising of volunteer events and supporting the dorm council members to make sure the dorms are a clean and comfortable place to live. Now envision that on top of all those duties there are 40 to 50 new Airmen moving in per year and you’re one man in one office. Meet Joe Horton, the unaccompanied housing dormitory manager for the junior enlisted dorms on base. “Mr. Horton completes room assignments, conducts room terminations, performs building managerial duties, financial planning, reviews and adjusts the budget, monitors disbursement funds and participates in various conferences and meetings with installation officials and other organizations,” said Mr. Tom Killingbeck, 902nd Civil Engineering Squadron housing program manager. “He also supervises the bay orderly program, maintains daily occupancy records while establishing and maintaining positive working relationships with the residents.” Mr. Horton, 902nd Civil Engineer Squadron unaccompanied enlisted dorm m a n a g e r, i s a Wo u n d e d Warrior who spent 10 years in the military. He retired as a staff sergeant and came to Randolph where he has worked for the past three years. Mr. Horton was hired as dorm manager through a civilian selection process Oct. 25. Mr. Horton said his favorite part of being the dorm manager is interacting with the dorm council and the residents of the dorms. The dorm council was created to be the voice of the dorm residents up the chain of command. “Working with the Airmen here at Randolph is rewarding, especially when I can engage an Airman to the point where they feel that I’ve gone above and beyond my best to help them,” he said. The dorm has gone through a series of renovations. While most of those changes are seen mainly in space and appearance, Mr. Horton believes his contributions are seen through the lives of Airmen. “I had to start with myself,” he said. “I’ve changed my perspective about the dorms. I see the dorms as a community with many branches that if I water it right will blossom and prosper. I feel the most contributions I’ve made thus far have gone into the dorm council. “They are the voice of the dorms, so if I help build the visions of the officers, which are incredible ones of accountability and community building, and we all share the same mission, then the vision is bright. Like the officers of the dorm council say ‘living here just got better,’” Mr. Horton said. In addition to the renovations already completed in the dorms, there are other long-term improvements on the horizon such as upgrading the game room, Photo by Rich McFadden Joe Horton (right), Randolph dorm manager, discusses future dorm plans with Airman 1st Clas Kelly Boos, bay orderly. replacing the carpet in the dorm rooms, as well as improving the lighting in the rooms, Mr. Horton added. In Mr. Horton’s job there is always a challenge, said Airman 1st Class Ashlee Baldon, 359th Medical Support Squadron outpatient records technician and the president of the dorm council. His office hours are from 7:30 a.m. until 4:30 p.m., but he is available whenever the residents or first ser- geants need him, often working late past duty hours and on weekends. Mr. Horton’s words of wisdom to the Airmen who live in the dorms and at Randolph are: “Keep the faith, personal and career wise. Search out a mentor; surround yourself with people who are examples for your future, people who are already where you want to be. Your friends and mentors should be a reflection of you.” Graphic by Joe Beach PAGE 8 WINGSPREAD APRIL 1, 2011 Chargin’ Cheetahs continue to make dreams come true By Airman 1st Class Precious Yett 502nd Air Base Wing OL-B Public Affairs The Pilot for a Day program originated at Randolph Air Force Base in 1994, funded through donations from organizations such as the Randolph Officers’ Spouses Club. For more than six years this program has been helping children with chronic illnesses fulfill their dream of being affiliated with the United States Air Force. Twenty-year-old Brandon Steffen was able to live his dream March 24. Brandon has been fighting his terminal illness for approximately four years, but refuses to give up. Last year he was the poster child of the Kansas City Leukemia/Lymphoma foundation and played the piano at their black-tie dinner. His grandmother, Phylis Murrow, 902nd Communications Squadron budget technician, nominated him for the Pilot for a Day program. “I never thought in a million years that these kinds of uncertainties would permeate our family,” said Stuart Steffen, Brandon’s father and a prior Air Force pilot. “And so we continue, truly, one day at a time. Brandon? What can I say? He is more of a man than I’ll ever be, and yet one of the kindest spirits on this earth. Even though we face an emotional trial that rivals some of the worst, I’m happy for every second that I’ve had with him and for how he has molded me.” Brandon said one of his dreams was to fly in a T-38 Talon II and tour an Air Force traffic control tower. Due to limited time constraint, medical and other requirements needed to get approval, a live flight couldn’t be accomplished. However, Mr. Thomas, Maj. Joel Neeb, who also coordinates the Giving Americans Motivational Education for the Real World program, and the 12th Operations Group pilots, mainly from the 560th Flying Training Squadron, stepped up to conduct an abbreviated Pilot for a Day program for Brandon and his family. The day included a simulator demonstration, aircraft tours, photos with pilots, air traffic control tower tour and a trip to the top of the Taj Mahal. Second Lt. Matthew Sanders, a student of the 558th Flying Training Squadron, in response to assisting with the Taj tour, said, “Brandon’s aspiration to be a part of the Air Force was extremely evident as he admired the dual runways from atop the Taj Mahal. Being a part of the Pilot for a Day program allowed him to be an element of something he is not only interested in, but appreciates very much. Under different circumstances, he would make a very knowledgeable and dedicated Airman. “I think having Brandon come to Randolph gave him an opportunity to really see and experience what the Air Force stands for,” he continued. “Brandon’s dream has been to be a pilot and, boy, did Team Randolph mobilize to give him the true meaning. It shows how the smallest act of compassion can have a big impact on a Photo by David Terry Maj. Joel Neeb (left), 560th Flying Training Squadron instructor pilot, gives Pilot for a Day Brandon Steffen a tour of the squadron. person’s life. I wish everyone could have seen the look on his face when he was given his flight suit. For a brief shining moment, it took his mind off his issue and gave him a reason to smile and be encouraged.” “Many people take having the privilege to be in the Air Force for granted, but for this young man, the opportunity of being a part of the Air Force mission even for a day will be etched in his mind forever,” Mr. Thomas said. “Sponsoring this event for Brandon not only highlighted the Air Force core values – Integrity first, service before self and excellence in all we do – but it also illustrates what the Air Force family exem- plifies, taking care of our own.” Randolph’s support of the Pilot for a Day program not only touched Brandon, but his family as well. “I wanted to sincerely thank you for taking Phylis’ request to heart and creating a special day for Brandon,” Mr. Steffen said. “He has certainly been through the fires over the course of the last four years and gestures like these mean a lot to him and also us. Brandon and I talk frequently of my Air Force memories and how he would give for a chance to experience the same. It was awesome for him to experience a taste of it. I wouldn’t trade mine for the world.” JBSA from P4 “Unfortunately, we have many students who, for a number of reasons, don’t get to spend a lot of quality time with their parents. Many students live in single-parent homes or with grandparents or other relatives. A lot of our families are struggling financially and parents work multiple jobs just to pay for basic necessities. This can make a child feel very unsettled, which in turn affects their behavior and their grades at school,” he said. Having positive role models, especially from the military, will help students in the district overcome those challenges, Dr. Folks said. “I can’t think of a better role model and mentor for our students than a member of the military. This program has the potential to make an enormous impact on our students and their futures. Research shows that just 15 minutes a day of positive contact with an adult makes students feel centered and cared about and increases their self-esteem, reduces their stress and gives them a sense of belonging. This in turn helps young people avoid making risky or dangerous choices,” he said. Joint Base San Antonio school liaison officers will match JBSA members and organizations with local schools requesting mentors or Adopt-A-Classroom participants. The program is based on the time-tested adage that every child counts, said Lori Phipps, Lackland school liaison officer. “Our military members are investing in the future of our society. It makes a difference, a difference that for a child in school can boost grades, improve discipline and enable the ability to interact socially. There is always that one person who made a difference in our lives and this is our opportunity to be that person,” Ms. Phipps said. Cindy Ybanez, also a Fort Sam Houston school liaison officer, said DTL extends beyond academics to reach students on a personal level. “It will be a proactive approach to mentoring, allowing the student and the mentor to discuss issues (important) to the student. Studies have shown that a large and growing segment of our youth lack a caring, responsible adult in their lives. DTL can help fill that void,” Ms. Ybanez said. For more information, or to participate in a mentoring or classroom adoption program, call Wanda Cooper, JBSA school liaison officer from Randolph, at 652-3060. APRIL 1, 2011 WINGSPREAD PAGE 9 Tops in Blue wraps up tour with local concert By Brian McGloin 502nd Air Base Wing OL-B Public Affairs After touring the world performing for servicemembers home and abroad, Tops in Blue took the stage Sunday at Trinity University’s Laurie Auditorium in downtown San Antonio. Tops in Blue is the premier performance group of the Air Force, made up of 35 active-duty amateur musicians and performers who compete to be part of the special unit. Tickets for the free performance were available through the Randolph Information, Tickets and Travel office. Sunday’s performance was the last of the group’s 2010 “We Believe” tour, but plans are under way for the group’s 2011 season. Members of the Randolph community volunteered their time to work at the theater as part of the support staff. “‘We Believe’ was a great theme, which we all need to hear. Whether it’s a message to all our great troops serving in the war zones and conflict areas, those affected by the natural devastations around the world or the families, we have got to believe that everything’s going to be all right eventually or things may appear to difficult to bear,” said Cynthia Webber, 12th Operations Support Squadron, who worked as an usher during the concert. “I am such a fan of the Tops in Blue and proud of them for the relevant messages they bring on a very busy schedule.” Staff Sgt Steven Sonnier, a vocalist with Tops In Blue, performs during the final concert of the 2010 “We Believe” tour. Photos by Steve Thurow Senior Airmen Breyson Robinson, drummer, and Johnathatn Velasquez, keyboardist, perform during the final Tops in Blue concert of the 2010 March 27 at the Laurie Auditorium in San Antonio. “It was an outstanding event and tour as usual, the show was heartfelt and very entertaining,” she said. “The last song touches me every time I hear it, so thanks to the performers and all responsible for the show.” Airmen from Randolph and the Joint Base San Antonio community were some of those responsible for the show. Tech. Sgt. Daniel Fountain, 882nd Training Support Squadron military training leader, said he was part of the seven-member tear-down crew after the show. “I didn’t get to watch the show unfortunately,” he said. “I’d seen it a couple of times while stationed at Hickam Air Force Base prior to coming here and thought they put on a great show.” This tour featured some changes from past programs with the addition of current, popular music in addition to the standards. “From speaking with some of the other setup crew, they’d changed up some of the older, more traditional music and opted for more current mainstream music such as Lady Gaga and The Black-Eyed Peas,” Sergeant Fountain said. “The stage looked awesome. A lot of attention to detail was put in to the setup. “All of the crews did a great job with the teardown. I hope to catch the next show that comes through.” PAGE 10 Randolph Chapel Holy Week and Easter Schedule Catholic Holy Week Schedule • Stations of the Cross, April 15 at 5 p.m. • Palm Sunday Vigil, April 16 at 5:30 p.m. • Palm Sunday Mass, April 17 at 8:30 a.m. and noon • Holy Thursday Mass, April 21 at 5 p.m. • Good Friday Stations of the Cross, April 22 at 5 p.m. • Good Friday Veneration of the Cross, April 22 at 6 p.m. • Holy Saturday Mass, April 23 at 7 p.m. • Easter Sunday Mass, April 24, 8:30 a.m. and 11:30 a.m. All Catholic Services and Masses will be held at the Religious Activity Center, Bldg. 975 Protestant Easter Schedule • Protestant Easter Service, at 10 a.m. in the Randolph AFB Theater, Bldg. 100 WINGSPREAD APRIL 1, 2011 APRIL 1, 2011 WINGSPREAD Honoring past commander PAGE 11 Promotion Congratulations to Lt. Col. Dwayne Gray, Air Education and Training Command air field operations, on his promotion. NOW SHOWING at the Randolph Theater “Justin Bieber: Never Say Never” (G) Justin Bieber Today @ 7 p.m. “Gnomeo and Juliet” (G) Voices of: James McAvoy, Emily Blunt Saturday @ 6 p.m. and Sunday @ 3 p.m. Photo by Rich McFadden Retired Gen. Billy Boles (left to right), former Air Force Personnel Center commander, his wife Kay and Maj. Gen. A.J. Stewart, current AFPC commander, unveil the plaque dedicating the Boles Conference Center in honor of General Boles’ contributions to the United States Air Force. $4.50 for adults $2.25 for children 0-11 Base BRIEFS Retirements Congratulations to Col. John Lopardi, Air Education and Training Command, on his retirement. Mandatory sexual assault briefing A mandatory Sexual Assault Prevention and Response Program briefing for all airmen to staff sergeants and first and second lieutenants takes place Tuesday at 10 a.m. in the base theater. Dr. Christopher Kilmartin, a comedian and professor of psychology at the University of Mary Washington, will be the guest speaker. For more information, call Jacqueline Shiflet at 652-4386. Health and wellness extravaganza Randolph Field Independent School District hosts a Health and Wellness Extravaganza April 30. The event begins with a Family Fun Walk at 8:30 a.m. at Heritage Park, followed by the Health and Wellness Fair at the Randolph Elementary School. For more information, or to register an exhibit, call Katie Hodgkins at 357-2477. Earth Day In observance of Earth Day, the Randolph Air Force Base Library offers an environmental awareness display during April. For more information, call the library at 652-2617. Alamo Travel, PPO hours change Alamo Travel’s hours of operation are 7 a.m. to 4 p.m. and the personal property office hours are 8 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. For more information, call 652-1154. Air Force Assistance Fund The 38th annual Randolph Air Force Assistance Fund campaign, “Commitment to Caring,” continues to capture our proud heritage by taking care of our own through our four Air Force charities: Air Force Aid Society, Air Force Enlisted Village, Air Force Village and the General and Mrs. Curtis E. LeMay Foundation. The AFAF runs through May 6. Those interested in donating can contact Maj. Gordon Pfeil at 652-8042 or 1st Lt. William Waterworth at 652-5171. Red Cross Japanese relief Officials from the Japanese Red Cross have indicated they would be grateful for donations from the American Red Cross to support their earthquake and tsunami response. Those who want to help can go to www.redcross.org and donate to Japan Earthquake and Pacific Tsunami. People can also donate $10 by texting REDCROSS to 90999 to support disaster relief efforts in Japan and throughout the Pacific. Clinic volunteers needed The American Red Cross is looking for dedicated volunteers to serve the base community at the Randolph Medical Clinic. If you have four or more hours a week of available time, please consider becoming a Red Cross volunteer. For more information, call the Red Cross desk at 652-6372 or stop by the Resource Management Office at the clinic, Bldg. 1040, Room 1C301, next to the records section. PAGE 12 WINGSPREAD APRIL 1, 2011 APRIL 1, 2011 WINGSPREAD PAGE 13 FEATURE 560th FTS hosts Vietnam-era Freedom Flyers reunion By Airman Alexis Siekert 502nd Air Base Wing OL-B Public Affairs Every year since 1973 the Freedom Flyer Reunion and Prisoner of War/Missing in Action Symposium has been held on Randolph Air Force Base in honor of repatriated Vietnam War POW pilots. The annual event also offers a “freedom flight” for those who never received the opportunity to take their final, champagneshowered, flight. The last group of the POWs returned to the United States during the last week of March 1973 after being released from their imprisonment in North Vietnam. This year’s ceremony marked the 38th year since their return. The event, hosted by the 560th Flying Training Squadron, took place March 25 at the base theater. “Launching American heroes over southeast Texas is our way of paying them back,” said Col. Richard Murphy, 12th Flying Training Wing commander. “Our nation learned a valuable lesson at their expense.” The symposium featured the stories and reflections of eight POWs as they shared their experiences from the grim times in the “Hanoi Hilton,” the infamous POW camp, and their inspiring stories of perseverance. Stories including the establishment of the tap code, a successful form of communication in which the alphabet was arranged in a grid with each letter assigned to a different tapping combination, as well as a prison break were highlighted. “Belief in God, belief in our country, Uniform Code of Military Justice, leadership and comrades helped us return home,” said Col. Carlyle Harris, eight-year POW and featured speaker at the symposium. “We won. We prevailed over the enemy. It was they who ended up with mud on their faces as we came out victorious.” During the Vietnam War, 3,326 military personnel were killed in action or were missing. Only 1,322 people were returned, said Lt. Col. Elmo Baker, six-year POW. This year, the squadron began recording both the symposium and the stories told by individual “flyers” as a means of preserving history and use in the future. “It is important to begin recording now so future generations can benefit from their experiences,” Colonel Murphy said. The symposium was followed at noon by a wreath-laying ceremony at the Missing Man Monument in honor of America’s military heroes who never made it home from war. The ceremony, which was open to the base community, included members from the Randolph Honor Guard for a three-volley rifle salute, a Band of the West bugler for “Taps” and a T-38 Talon IIp fly-over in missing man formation. “Thank you,” Colonel Murphy said. “Your legacy will never be forgotten.” Above: Col. Richard Murphy (center), 12th Flying Training Wing commander, and retired Col. William Goldfein (right) lay a wreath in honor of America’s military heroes who never made it home from war at the Missing Man Monument March 25 during the 38th annual Freedom Flyers Reunion. Photo by Don Lindsey Photo by Rich McFadden The Randolph Air Force Base Honor Guard provides a three-volley rifle salute March 25 during the annual wreath-laying ceremony held each year in conjunction with the Freedom Flyer reunion and symposium. Left: Freedom Flyers salute during the national anthem at the symposium held in conjunction with the annual reunion. Photo by Joel Martinez PAGE 14 WINGSPREAD APRIL 1, 2011 April observance calls attention to importance of 911 system By Robert Goetz 502nd Air Base Wing OL-B Public Affairs A presidential commission in 1967 recommended a single number nationwide for reporting emergency situations. The American Telephone and Telegraph Company adopted the digits 911 as the emergency code throughout the country the next year; Congress designated 911 as the national emergency call number 31 years later. Now, the month of April is set aside to call attention to the proper use of the emergency number with the establishment of National 911 Education Month, which officially kicked off last year. A Randolph Fire Emergency Services official said using the three-digit number is “vitally important to assure emergency forces are notified as soon as possible.” “Oftentimes seconds do count during a call,” said Jesus Lopez, 902nd Civil Engineer Squadron fire inspector. “A small fire may turn into a major fire, a vehicle accident can cause others to get hurt and a hazardous materials incident can impact the environment we live and work in.” Mr. Lopez said it is important that people realize that 911 is for emergencies only – if someone is hurt or in danger or if police, fire or medical assistance is required. He said people who work or live at Randolph should make sure they provide the right information to the dispatcher at the Randolph fire station if they call 911. “We need the building number, not the mailing address,” he said. Mr. Lopez estimated the dispatch office fields an average of “a couple of 911 calls per day.” If the call is from a “Oftentimes seconds do count during a call. A small fire may turn into a major fire, a vehicle accident can cause others to get hurt and a hazardous materials incident can impact the environment we live and work in.” Jesus Lopez 902nd Civil Engineer Squadron fire inspector commercial number on base, it will go directly to the Randolph dispatcher. “But if the call is from a cell phone, the caller has to make sure they say their emergency is at Randolph because the call is received at the nearest tower and routed back to the base,” he said. Staff Sgt. Matthew Kitchen, 902nd CES dispatcher, said the Randolph dispatch office “is the main hub for the base.” “It operates like a county system,” he said. “We get calls from other dispatchers, too. We usually arrive within minutes.” Sergeant Kitchen said the 902nd Security Forces Squadron also fields 911 calls, though the fire station dispatch office provides initial response. Mr. Lopez said the dispatch office also handles administrative, or non-emergency, calls, and is the direct link with the east and west air traffic control towers. Although 911 is for emergencies, callers who aren’t sure their situation is an emergency should err on the side of safety. Dispatchers have a checklist of questions to ask for a variety of situations. “Everybody has their own opinion of what an emergency situation is,” Sergeant Kitchen said. “That’s why we’re here – to make that call. But sometimes we don’t know the seriousness of a situation until we get to the scene.” He said security forces plays a key role in emergency response, often making it easier for the firefighters and paramedics to do their job. “They make it safe for us to get on the scene for what we need to do,” Sergeant Kitchen said. Mr. Lopez said the majority of 911 calls at Randolph are for medical responses, followed by fire alarm activations and smoke investigations. Actual structural fires continue to decline. “That’s the trend in cities throughout the country, for more medical responses,” he said. Mr. Lopez said it is also important to “train children early so they can learn the proper use of 911.” Children should know when to call 911 and what happens when they call 911. They should also be taught to stay on the line until the dispatcher tells them to hang up, important information the dispatcher needs to know – such as their address and parents’ names – and the importance of staying calm. Mr. Lopez said the 911 system continues to improve. “Now we have enhanced 911, which gives the location of the caller if it’s a land line,” he said. Mr. L o p e z s a i d R a n d o l p h F i r e Emergency Services’ goal is to “arrive on the scene in a safe manner and mitigate the situation.” “That’s what we train for and we stand ready for the next call,” he said. APRIL 1, 2011 WINGSPREAD ADVERTISEMENT 902nd Force Support Squadron Briefs PAGE 15 PAGE 16 WINGSPREAD APRIL 1, 2011 SPORTS – HEALTH – FITNESS Sports BRIEFS Special recognition Little Renegades registration Little Renegades is a parent/child program that helps build confidence in children 3-5 years old while they learn basic baseball skills. Registration takes place through April 30 at youth programs, Bldg. 585. Children must be 3 years old by April 1. The cost is $30 per child and the program runs for six weeks beginning in May. Master’s blind draw The Randolph Oaks Golf Course hosts a master’s blind draw April 9 with tee times from 7-9 a.m. The entry fee is $10 per person. Photo by Tony Morano Command Chief Master Sgt. Juan Lewis (left), 502nd Air Base Wing command chief, exchanges coins with Florida State's Bernard James during a practice for a Southwest regional semifinal in the NCAA college basketball tournament March 24. Mr. James served in the Air Force from 2003 to 2008, spending time at Lackland for basic military training, security forces training and leadership schools. Rambler Fitness Center group exercise class schedule – April 2011 MONDAYS 9 a.m. - Step 10:05 a.m. - Strength 11 a.m. - Step 11:15 a.m. - Cycling 5 p.m. - Step 5:15 p.m. - Cycling 6 p.m. - Yoga 7:15 p.m. - Kick Boxing TUESDAYS 9 a.m. - Yoga 10 a.m. - Senior Strength 11 a.m. - Step 5 p.m. - Zumba 6 p.m. - Kick Boxing WEDNESDAYS 9 a.m. - Step 11 a.m. - Step 11:15 p.m. - Cycling 5 p.m. - Zumba 5:15 p.m. - Cycling 6 p.m. - Pilates 7:15 p.m. - Kick Boxing THURSDAYS FRIDAYS 9 a.m. - Step/Weights 9 a.m. - Yoga 10 a.m. - Senior Strength 11 a.m. - Sets & Reps 5 p.m. - Zumba 6 p.m. - Kick Boxing 10:15 a.m. - Cardiofusion 11:15 a.m. - Cycling 5:30 p.m. - Yoga SATURDAYS 9 a.m. - Kick Boxing 9 a.m. - Pilates 10:15 a.m. - Zumba SUNDAYS 1 p.m. - Yoga $3 per class. For details on class passes or holiday class schedules, call the Rambler Fitness Center at 652-2955. Equipment orientation available upon request for all patrons. The Rambler Fitness Center will observe regular hours during the Easter holiday. Golf tournament Members of the 470th Military Intelligence Brigade will host a golf tournament at the Palmer Course at La Cantera May 6 starting at 11 a.m. The tournament will benefit the Army Emergency Relief Fund. The $75 cash registration covers green fees, fully stocked golf course and AER donation. The deadline for registration is April 1. For more information, call Ron Johnson at 246-3010 or 221-7581. Get ready to golf The cost for five days of golf lessons plus time on the course is $99 (clubs furnished). All participants will also get a punch card for 10 ninehole rounds of golf. Call PGA golf professional Charles Bishop at 2443415 for more information.
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