arctic warrior

14 Pages·2014·21.59 MB·English

ARCTIC
JBER paratroopers jump
north of the Arctic Circle
TOUGH during Operation
Spartan Pegasus
Photo story, A-3
JOINT BASE ELMENDORF-RICHARDSON’S SOURCE FOR NEWS
A W
RCTIC ARRIOR
February 28, 2014 www.jber.af.mil Volume 5, No. 8
703rd AMXS
RAPTOR RESCUER
Airman
found dead
JBER news release
Air Force Staff Sgt. Samuel Davis, aero-
space maintenance craftsman, 703rd Aircraft
Maintenance Squadron, was pronounced
dead at his off-base residence Sunday by
civilian emergency responders.
The circumstances surrounding his death
are being investigated by Air Force Office
of Special Investigations and the Anchorage
Police Department. Next of kin have been
notified.
Davis, a 33 year-old native of Spencer,
W. Va., joined the Air Force in April 2001.
He arrived at JBER in November 2011. His
previous duty stations include Whiteman Air
Force Base, Mo., and Lackland Air Force
Base, San Antonio.
“Sam will be missed,” said Air Force
Maj. Michael Bliss, 703 AMXS commander.
“He was a great member of the Air Force
family. His family is in our prayers.”
A memorial service was hosted yesterday
at JBER-Elmendorf.
3rd ASOS
Airman dies
on JBER
Airman 1st Class Daniel Underwood, 525th Aircraft Maintenance Unit assistant dedicated crew chief, checks an F-22 Raptor for JBER news release
leaks, damage and security at the 525th Fighter Squadron Feb. 21. Underwood earned the Pacific Air Forces Aviation Safety Well
Done Award for extinguishing a fire on board a Raptor Feb. 4. (U.S. Air Force photos/Airman 1st Class Ty-Rico Lea) Air Force Staff Sgt. Darian Miller, Non-
commissioned officer in charge, Knowledge
Airman saves
Operations Management, 3d Air Support
Operations Squadron, was pronounced dead
Feb. 18.
$149 million
The circumstances surrounding his death
are being investigated by the Air Force Of-
fice of Special Investigations.
F-22 Raptor Miller, a 38 year-old native of Marion,
S.C., joined the Air Force in September
1994. He attended basic training at Lackland
Air Force Base, San Antonio, Texas, and ar-
By Air Force Tech Sgt. Vernon Cunningham rived at JBER in August 2011. Some of his
JBER Public Affairs awards include the Air Force Commendation
Medal and Air Force Achievement Medal.
An Airman with the 525th Aircraft Main- A memorial service was hosted yesterday
tenance Unit earned the Pacific Air Forces at JBER-Elmendorf.
Aviation Safety Well Done Award Feb. 14 Thousands
for putting out a fire on an F-22 Raptor at
Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson, Alaska,
Feb. 4. ramp up for
PACAF Aviation Safety Well Done
Awards are presented for outstanding
airmanship or support to aircrew, which Alaska Shield,
prevents or reduces the impact of a serious Airman 1st Class Daniel Underwood, 525th Aircraft Maintenance Unit assistant dedi-
flight mishap. Airman 1st Class Michael cated crew chief, checks the left main weapons bay components of an F-22 Feb. 21.
Underwood, 525th AMU assistant dedicated Arctic Edge
crew chief, has been in the Air Force for less coming in and did his duty marshalling it to “He quickly reacted, grabbed the Halon
than two years and was put in for the award its parking spot, sometimes called an “F-22 bottle and put out the fire, saving a $149-mil-
due to his quick thinking during the hazard- garage.” lion aircraft,” Franzen said.
ous situation. Air Force Master Sgt. Joshua Franzen, The flight chief said he was very im- By Tech. Sgt. John Gordinier
Raised in Saginaw, Texas, Underwood 525th AMU Tactical Aircraft Maintenance pressed with Underwood’s actions to save ALCOM/JTF-AK Public Affairs
looked to the military for his future. flight chief, said Underwood was assisting the Raptor’s critical systems. He said the jet
“I was hoping for a stable job, something an F-22 with parking when the incident made its next sortie as scheduled. It happened in 1964 and it could happen
that I knew I could count on,” he said. “I occurred. “I never thought I would do something again; a massive earthquake causing destruc-
wanted education, and I hoped and am hop- “Underwood was getting the aircrew out like that,” Underwood said, stating he was tion, tsunamis, and utilities and communica-
ing I can make a career out of it.” of the seat, had the boarding ladder up, and surprised when he received the award. tions failures. For the 50th anniversary of
After joining the Air Force and getting was assisting aircrew with baggage when “When it happened, I basically acted the 9.2 magnitude earthquake, thousands
through his training, Underwood was as- he looked under the aircraft and noticed the on instinct,” he said. “It felt like it was of local, state and federal personnel will
signed to JBER. right main landing gear brake had caught part of my job. This jet was prevented participate in a cooperative exercise called
Feb. 4 was a regular day “at the office” fire,” Franzen said. from taking heavy damage and costing the Alaska Shield March 27 to April 3.
for Underwood, who performed his daily The flame was roughly six inches high, Air Force money. We still have it and it is The exercise scenario will mirror a situa-
tasks as normal. He got notice of the F-22 Underwood said. still flying.” tion similar to the events of the Great Alaska
JBER civil engineers garner high honors Earthquake of 1964.
The federal support of this exercise is
known as Exercise Arctic Edge 14, which
provides an opportunity for U.S. Northern
By Air Force Staff Sgt. Blake Mize Squadron engineer technician, the Defense “Like so many of our fellow Air Force Command, Joint Task Force - Alaska and
JBER Public Affairs Meritorious Service Medal. engineers, this deployment asked us to ex- supporting military units to practice emer-
The three civil engineers distinguished pand on our skill sets and take on new chal- gency response procedures in conjunction
The 673d Civil Engineer Group recog- themselves while on separate deployments lenges,” Kallevig, of Sidney, Mont., said. with federal, state and local agencies.
nized three Airmen Feb. 19 for exceptionally to Afghanistan during 2012 and 2013. “I am truly proud of the progress we made If a state disaster occurs, when can DoD
meritorious service in support of Operation While deployed, Kallevig was hand- during the deployment and how well we assist?
Enduring Freedom. picked to be the officer in charge of Regional represented the engineers in our command.” During natural disasters, DoD assets are
During an early-morning ceremony Training Center-Herat and was responsible During his time in Afghanistan, Rice, employed to assist civil authorities only upon
on Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson, Air for the safety and accountability of 120 from Boise, Idaho, served as an EOD team request and this support is called Defense
Force Col. Anthony Ramage, 673d CEG U.S., coalition and civilians at an Afghan leader on more than 60 EOD missions and Support of Civil Authorities.
commander, presented Air Force 1st Lt. National Police training center. He was also completed 16 post-blast analyses. He led The DoD maintains many capabilities
Josef Kallevig, 673d CEG executive officer, the Infrastructure Transition Advisory Group multiple demolition operations, destroying and resources that can be made available
and Air Force Staff Sgt. Scott Rice, 673d site leader at Regional Support Center-West. more than 7,000 pieces of foreign unexplod- upon request of the governor of a state or
Civil Engineer Squadron explosive ordnance According to his BSM citation, Kallevig’s ed ordnance and eliminating 7,272 unser- territory, said Col. Kevin Masterson, U.S.
technician, Bronze Star Medals and Senior leadership was instrumental to the success
Airman Andres Fossi, 673d Civil Engineer of RC-West. See HONORS l A-3 See TRAINING l A-3
REMOTSUC LATSOP Inside Fur Rendezvous spirit is downtown: B-1 Secretary of Defense talks budget
gnihsilbuP
DegIarAohcnPA Plans call for possible Afghanistan exit .............A-2 Secretary of Defense Chuck
Continue to serve in the Air Force Reserve ............A-2 Hagel outlines Fiscal Year
Base golf program adjustments planned .................A-3 2015 budget proposals, talks
egatsoP .S.U
DTS-TRSRP Birth Announcements ...............................................B-4 possible force reductions
SSWRCE Housekeeping manager’s labor of love ....................B-4 Page A-2
A-2 News & Commentary February 28, 2014
Hagel outlines Fiscal Year 2015 budget
By Nick Simeone longer becomes involved in large, prolonged out there.” Among other proposals in the budget
American Forces Press Service stability operations overseas on the scale of The proposed budget also envisions a request:
Iraq and Afghanistan. 5-percent reduction in the Army National • The Army will cancel the Ground Com-
WASHINGTON — Defense Secretary “An Army of this size is larger than re- Guard and Army Reserve. bat Vehicle program;
Chuck Hagel has proposed cuts in military quired to meet the demands of our defense “While it is true that reserve units are • The Navy would be able to maintain
spending that include further reductions in strategy,” Hagel said. “It is also larger than less expensive when they are not mobilized, 11 carrier strike groups, but any steep future
troop strength and force structure in every we can afford to modernize and keep ready.” our analysis shows that a reserve unit is cuts could require mothballing the aircraft
military service in the coming year as part of But he said the smaller force still would roughly the same cost as an active duty unit carrier USS George Washington;
an effort to prioritize U.S. strategic interests be capable of decisively defeating when mobilized and deployed,” • Half of the Navy’s cruiser fleet, 11
in the face of reduced resources after more aggression in one major war Hagel said. ships, will be placed in reduced operating
than a decade of war. “while also defending the In addition, the Army status while they are modernized and given a
At a Pentagon news conference Mon- homeland and supporting Guard’s AH-65 Apache at- longer lifespan;
day detailing President Barack Obama’s air and naval forces en- tack helicopters would be • The Navy will continue buying two
proposed Pentagon budget for fiscal year gaged in another theater transferred to the active destroyers and attack submarines per year;
2015, Hagel called the reductions – includ- against an adversary.” force, while Black Hawk • The Marine Corps will draw down from
ing shrinking the Army to its smallest size The budget request helicopters would be about 190,000 to 182,000, but would have to
since before World War II and eliminating an calls for special operations transferred to the National shrink further if sequestration returns;
entire fleet of Air Force fighter planes – “dif- forces to grow by nearly Guard, part of a broader • An additional 900 Marines will be de-
ficult choices” that will change defense insti- 4,000 personnel, bringing realignment of Army avia- voted to securing U.S. embassies; and
tutions for years to come, but are designed to the total to 69,700, a reflection tion designed to modernize • The Defense Department is asking
leave the military capable of fulfilling U.S. of the asymmetrical threats the the fleet and increase capability. Congress for another round of base closings
defense strategy and defending the homeland nation is likely to face in the future, Within the Air Force, the de- and realignments in 2017.
against strategic threats. Hagel said. fense budget calls for saving $3.5 billion Hagel said most of the recommendations
Under a Pentagon budget that will shrink The restructuring and downsizing are by retiring the A-10 Thunderbolt II fleet and in the budget were accepted by senior mili-
by more than $75 billion during the next in line with a two-year budget agreement replacing it with the F-35 Lightning II by tary officers. Addressing reporters alongside
two years – with deeper cuts expected if the president and Congress worked out in the early 2020s. him, Army Gen. Martin Dempsey, chairman
sequestration returns in fiscal year 2016 – December, which limits defense spending “The A-10 is a 40-year old, single-pur- of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, said the spend-
Hagel and other senior defense and military to $496 billion. But Hagel warned that if pose airplane originally designed to kill en- ing plan reflects a balancing of the military
officials acknowledged some of the budget the budget for fiscal year 2016 returns to the emy tanks on a Cold War battlefield,” Hagel while ensuring it remains the world’s finest.
choices will create additional risks in certain steep, automatic spending cuts imposed by said. “It cannot survive or operate effectively “It reflects in real terms how we’re reduc-
areas. sequestration, “we would be gambling that where there are more advanced aircraft or air ing our cost and making sure the force is in
Some of that risk, Hagel said, is associ- our military will not be required to respond defenses.” the right balance,” Dempsey said.
ated with a sharp drawdown in the size of to multiple major contingencies at the same In addition, the service also will retire Dempsey and Hagel will testify on the
the Army, which the proposed budget calls time.” the 50 year-old U-2 surveillance plane in budget before Congress next week. Law-
for reducing to as low as 440,000 active duty Asked to define that increased risk, a se- favor of the unmanned RQ-4 Global Hawk. makers will have the final say on spending
Soldiers from the current size of 520,000, nior Defense Department official expressed Hagel warned much deeper cuts in Air decisions.
while ensuring the force remains well trained it simply. “If the force is smaller, there’s Force structure and modernization will be “This is the first time in 13 years we will
and equipped. less margin for error,” the official said. necessary if sequestration is not avoided be presenting a budget to Congress that is not
The cuts assume the United States no “Let’s face it – things are pretty uncertain in 2016. a war footing budget,” Hagel noted.
Plans call for possible Afghanistan exit
American Forces Press Service reporters, White House officials that any post-2014 U.S. mission provide [Department of Defense] next several months will provide
said Obama is leaving will be smaller in scale and personnel with critical protections various options for political leaders
WASHINGTON — President open the possibility ambition.” and authorities after 2014,” the in the United States and NATO,”
Barack Obama informed Afghan of concluding a bi- Soon after, De- secretary said. Hagel said in his statement. “And
President Hamid Karzai Tuesday lateral security fense Secretary He also commended the ef- during this time, DoD will still
that because the Afghan leader has agreement with Chuck Hagel forts of Marine Corps Gen. Joseph continue planning for U.S. par-
demonstrated it is unlikely he will Afghanistan released a state- Dunford Jr., commander of U.S. ticipation in a NATO-led mission
sign the bilateral security agree- later this year. ment express- forces and the NATO-led Interna- focused on training, advising, and
ment on a U.S. military presence “However, ing his “strong tional Security Assistance Force assisting Afghan security forces, as
in Afghanistan beyond this year, he the longer we support” for the in Afghanistan, and other military well as a narrowly focused coun-
has asked the Pentagon to ensure go without a president’s de- leaders to provide flexibility to terterrorism mission.”
it has adequate plans in place to BSA, the more cision. the president as the United States The United States will consult
accomplish an orderly withdrawal challenging it “This is a pru- works to determine the future of closely with NATO allies and ISAF
by the end of the year should the will be to plan and dent step, given that the U.S. presence in Afghanistan. partners in the months ahead, he
United States not keep any troops execute any U.S. mis- President Karzai has “As the United States mili- added, noting that he looks forward
in Afghanistan after 2014. sion,” they added. “Fur- demonstrated that it is un- tary continues to move people to discussing U.S. planning with
In a summary of the Obama- thermore, the longer we go without likely that he will sign the bilateral and equipment out of the Afghan NATO and ISAF defense ministers
Karzai phone call released to a BSA, the more likely it will be security agreement, which would theater, our force posture over the in Brussels this week.
Continue to serve with the Air Force Reserve
By Air Force Master Sgt. repeat Basic Military Training, tinue their service with the Reserve
Shawn Jones and those who remain in the same Component.
Air Force News Service career field do not require technical Airmen should be aware the
school training. recruiting process is somewhat
Force management programs “When regular Air Force Air- different from when they joined
will push many Airmen out of their men transition into the Reserve, the active-duty Air Force. Having
full-time active-duty positions, but everyone wins,” said Air Force Lt. experience is helpful, but Airmen
that doesn’t mean they have to give Gen. James Jackson, commander must work with a recruiter to find
up the retirement plan or the other of Air Force Reserve Command. the best positions.
hard-earned benefits. “We are doing our absolute best to “Reserve units love fully quali-
Transitioning into the Air Force retain as many of these fine Airmen fied Airmen who can hit the ground
Reserve allows Airmen to con- and our investment in them. running,” said Air Force Col. Steve
tinue to serve their country while “The Airmen retains the ben- Fulaytar, commander of the Air
providing benefits such as tuition efits of continued service, the Force Reserve Command Recruit-
assistance, the Post 9-11 G.I. Bill, Reserve gets experienced Airmen ing Service. “But finding the best
reduced-cost health insurance and who can contribute immediately positions for new recruits takes
the opportunity to continue work- and the nation retains a valuable time, so they can help themselves
ing toward a military retirement asset for national security,” Jack- by contacting a Reserve recruiter
plan. son added. as soon as possible.”
Airmen with active-duty expe- Airmen who are ready to sepa- The in-service recruiter at Joint Air Force Master Sgt. Benjamin Waxenfelter, 477th Aircraft Mainte-
rience are especially valuable to rate don’t have to wait until their Base Elmendorf/Richardson is Air nance Squadron Production superintendent, checks forms on the
portable maintenance aid prior to signing the exceptional release and
Reserve units because they already original enlistment or commission Force Master Sgt. John Venable,
handing the aircraft over to the F-22 Raptor pilot during the Reserve
understand the Air Force culture is complete. The Palace Chase pro- who may be reached at 552-3595.
Unit Training Assembly weekend Feb. 8 at JBER. The UTA provides
and don’t require as much training gram enables Airmen to separate More information is available at
an opportunity for all the Reservists assigned to the 477th Fighter
as an inexperienced recruit. from their active enlistment or www.afreserve.com and www.face-
Group to come together and train one weekend a month. (U.S. Air
Experienced Airmen do not commission as long as they con- book.com/airforcereserve. Force/Tech. Sgt. Dana Rosso)
Value your service: Answering the call
By Air Force Master Sgt. Ambrose mance Report ratings, decora- tinct from each other. Careerism on the uniform. It is all about your Vietnam, but I am no more a hero
Randolph tions, awards and promotions to often involves doing something, service. than anyone else who has served
673d Aerospace Medical Squadron the higher echelons of rank as the such as a task or a project, merely There are some who will sepa- this country.”
only hallmarks of a great military for what it will do for you and rate after four or six years of ser- Promotions, decorations, quar-
My favorite line in the Air- career. Those people, however, are your career. vice as a senior airman, and there terly and annual awards have their
man’s Creed says “I have answered missing the bigger picture. Service, on the other hand, are some who will go above and place in our Air Force. But your
my nation’s call.” For me, that line Promotions and other career is different. Merriam-Webster beyond and retire with 30 years of service to your country should
sums up what being an Airman accolades are worthwhile endeav- defines service as “a helpful act,” service as a chief master sergeant. never be undervalued by any
in the United States Air Force is ors, and there is nothing wrong and a “contribution to the welfare However, when it is all said and of those things. Your honorable
ultimately all about: service. with striving to achieve them. of others.” In other words, your done at the end of the day service act of service in and of itself
One of the highest honors we They help to highlight exceed- service should be selfless, not is simply service and sacrifice is is a praiseworthy achievement
have as men and women in uniform ingly great performance and help selfish. simply sacrifice. and in many respects is the only
is the honor of serving our country. to distinguish you from the rest of Do not get me wrong. I am not A quote by Airman 1st Class hallmark that matters when it
Sadly, this simple yet uncommon the pack. However, if you are not telling you you should avoid trying John L. Levitow, the lowest- comes to defining your military
act is sometimes undervalued by careful in how much prominence to advance your military career ranking Air Force Medal of Honor career.
some when it comes to defining a you give to those achievements, while you serve your country. The recipient, sums up the meaning This goes out to all who serve,
great Air Force career. you will ultimately reduce your point of my message is to remind of service excellently. He said, “I all who served yesterday, and
Some people have a tendency service to mere careerism. you why you are really here and have been recognized as a hero all who will serve tomorrow.
to overly view Enlisted Perfor- Careerism and service are dis- what it really means when you put for my ten minutes of action over Thank you.
Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson/ ARCTIC WARRIOR JBER Public Affairs Director
673d Air Base Wing Commander Capt. Angela Webb (USAF)
Col. Brian P. Duffy (USAF)
Deputy Public Affairs Director
Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson/ The Arctic Warrior is published by Wick Communica- available for purchase, use or patronage without regard to race, Bob Hall
tions, a private firm in no way connected with the Department color, religion, gender, national origin, age, marital status,
673d Air Base Wing Vice Commander
of Defense, the Department of the Air Force or the Department physical handicap, political affiliation or any other non-merit
Col. William P. Huber (USA) of the Army, under exclusive written contract with the Joint factor of the purchaser, user or patron. Public Affairs superintendent
Base Elmendorf-Richardson Public Affairs Office. To advertise in the Arctic Warrior, please call (907) Senior Master Sgt. Michael Hammond
This civilian enterprise newspaper is an authorized pub- 561-7737. Editorial content is edited, prepared and provided
Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson/
lication for members of the U.S. military services. Contents of by the Arctic Warrior staff.
673d Air Base Wing Command Chief the Arctic Warrior are not necessarily the official views of, or Editorial office and mailing address: JBER Public Command Information Chief
Chief Master Sgt. Kevin L. Call endorsed by, the U.S. government, Department of Defense, the Affairs, 10480 Sijan Ave., Suite 123, Joint Base Elmendorf- Jim Hart
Department of the Air Force or the Department of the Army. Richardson, AK 99506; telephone [phone].
The appearance of advertising in this publication, includ- Send emails about news stories and story submissions
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673d Air Base Wing U.S. government, the Department of Defense, the Department Deadline for article and photos is 4:30 p.m., Monday, for David Bedard - editor
Command Sergeant Major of the Air Force, the Department of the Army, or Wick Com- the week of publication. Articles and photos will be published Chris McCann - community editor
munications of the products or services advertised. on a space-available basis and are subject to editing by the Arc-
Command Sgt. Maj. Eugene J. Moses Staff Sgt. Blake Mize (USAF) - staff writer
Everything advertised in this publication shall be made tic Warrior staff. Submission does not guarantee publication.
February 28, 2014 News A-3
TOP OF THE
WORLD
Paratroopers with Chaos Troop, 1st Squadron (Airborne), 40th Cavalry Regiment, move to their assembly area after parachuting into Deadhorse, Alaska, Feb. 25 as part of
the Spartan Brigade’s training for rapid insertion into any environment in the Pacific. This is the first time the Spartan Brigade has conducted operations north of the Arctic
Circle. (U.S. Army photo/Sgt. Eric-James Estrada)
ABOVE: Paratroopers with 1st Squadron (Airborne), 40th
Cavalry Regiment, jump into Deadhorse, Alaska, Feb. 25.
(U.S. Army photo/Sgt. 1st Class Jason Epperson)
LEFT: A paratrooper with Chaos Troop, 1st Squadron, 40th
Cavalry Regiment, moves to the assembly area after para-
chuting into Deadhorse, Alaska, Feb. 25 as part of the Spartan
Brigade’s training for rapid insertion into any environment
in the Pacific. The Arctic Circle, running parallel to a 66° 33′
44″ latitude, is the southernmost latitude in the Northern
Hemisphere where the sun can remain continuously above
or below the horizon for 24 hours. (U.S. Army photo/Sgt.
Eric-James Estrada)
JBER plans adjustments to base golf program
Plans follow
munity, which represented approximately 65 centers, Child & School Age Care, library Base, Kansas.
percent of the players during the past three services, Outdoor Recreation centers, and At JBER, the base leadership conducts
years. other youth programs. These core programs quarterly Non-Appropriated Fund Council
detailed trend That popularity notwithstanding, golf are often eligible for appropriated fund meetings with mission partners from across
courses in the Anchorage area, including support; however, these may also rely on the installation. During NAF Council meet-
JBER’s, are seeing a long-term downward non-appropriated funds during periods when ings, all MWR programs, to include JBER’s
analysis trend in rounds played. For its golf activity, appropriated funds are not available. golf program, are reviewed for their usage,
JBER has seen an 11-year net loss – with Enhancements to the JBER MWR pro- cost efficiency and performance.
more than a $1.9 million net loss during the gram include other opportunities such as “By reducing our excess capacity and
past three years and more than $2.2 million auto hobby, arts and crafts, an aero club, potentially consolidating our golf operations,
JBER News Release during the past five. and recreational activities such as golf. we are confident we can reverse the adverse
With an estimated capacity of 115,000 However, such offerings must rely on cus- effect to our MWR fund while still provid-
Following a thorough review of histori- rounds per season between the three base tomer demand if they are to remain viable, ing an attractive seasonal activity to service
cal trends, the Joint Base Elmendorf-Rich- courses, the past three years have seen because they are not eligible for appropriated members, our civilians, their families, and
ardson and 673d Air Base Wing commander an average of 54 percent of the available fund support. These offerings, designated as members of our local community,” said Air
announced intentions to make adjustments to rounds go unsold. The declining trend began non-appropriated fund, “Category C” MWR Force Col. Brian Duffy, JBER and 673 ABW
the installation’s golf program, which may more than a decade ago. In 2003, the JBER activities, must be self-sustaining – meaning commander. “We remain greatly apprecia-
include consolidating base courses from courses sold approximately 75,150 rounds. they must generate sufficient revenue to pay tive of the support we get from the people of
three to two. By 2013, that total had dropped to 47,092 operating expenses and recapitalize equip- the greater Anchorage area, but with figures
This study began more than a year ago rounds. ment and ideally contribute to the installa- as drastic as these, it’s imperative we take
when JBER officials assessed that the instal- This decrease in use and loss of revenue tion’s overall MWR Fund. swift action to align our MWR program
lation’s program may have excess capacity. directly affects the bottom line of JBER’s The proposed adjustment to the golf with customer demand and in a manner best
JBER hosts three of the four 18-hole Morale, Welfare and Recreation Fund – program is not a unique situation. Air Force supportive of our installation’s population.”
golf courses in the greater Anchorage area. which supports programs and activities wide, 19 Category C MWR facilities were JBER officials will provide additional
The base’s three courses have a combined enhancing readiness for service members, closed in 2013, including the golf course information on this analysis and the proposal
54 holes and are open to the military com- civilians, and family members assigned at Tyndall Air Force Base, Fla. In recent on March 5 and 6 at 6:00 p.m., each night,
munity and the public. The courses have to the base. Core activities offered under years, courses have closed at Offutt Air at the Moose Run Golf Course Clubhouse at
been a popular attraction to the local com- JBER’s MWR program include fitness Force Base, Neb., and McConnell Air Force 27000 Arctic Valley Road on JBER.
From HONORS l A-1 ments from English to Dari and to get something out of it,” Fossi, branch of the military who, while The Defense Meritorious Ser-
vice versa. He was responsible for a Hackensack, N.J., native, said. serving in any capacity with the vice Medal is awarded for non-
viceable U.S. military munitions. the translation of more than 500 “The way I see it, I was just doing armed forces of the United States, combat meritorious achievement
Among his many responsi- documents, including military- my job. So it feels good to get the distinguished themselves by he- or service that is incontestably
bilities while in Afghanistan, Fossi, related technical manuals, laws, recognition and know the things I roic or meritorious achievement exceptional and of magnitude that
who was an airman first class at government relations, engineering did actually mattered.” or service, not involving participa- clearly places the individual above
the time of his deployment, man- policies, technical specifications According to the Air Force tion in aerial flight, in connection his peers while serving in one of
aged 12 Afghan interpreters who and legal documents. Personnel Center, the Bronze Star with military operations against an the assignments for which the
transitioned mission-critical docu- “I wasn’t doing those things Medal is awarded to those in any armed enemy. medal has been designated.
From TRAINING l A-1 and planning to name a few, he statuses simultaneously, federal forces in achieving common ob- built ahead of time so you know
added. Civil authorities only ask and state. The state governor can jectives in response to a disaster, what your immediate actions are
Northern Command liaison officer for assistance when local and appoint a DSC for his or her state Masterson said. The DSC promotes going to be, who you can expect
to Joint Task Force - Alaska. If an state resources and capabilities are with approval of the secretary of synchronization between the two to see, and you’ve worked with
incident occurs that exceeds or is exhausted because DoD assets are defense. In state status, the DSC separate chains of command to them before.
anticipated to exceed state, local or expensive. is a member of the state chain of achieve objectives more effectively “Exercises like these also give
tribal resources, the federal govern- “The federal military is very command and, on their behalf, ex- and efficiently. us the opportunity to react to a simu-
ment may provide resources and expensive, so they are the last in ercises command of assigned state There are many benefits for lated disaster in a joint effort to save
capabilities to support the response and the first out,” Masterson said. National Guard forces. In federal personnel participating in Alaska lives, relieve human suffering and
upon approval from the Secretary “When there is no more lifesaving status, the DSC is a member of the Shield and Arctic Edge. test our recovery efforts,” Master-
of Defense. or serious property damage to be federal chain of command and, on This large-scale exercise will son continued. “JTF-Alaska, State
“DSCA is bringing military prevented, or when local and state their behalf, exercises command reinforce working relationships and and local agencies have a long-term
forces to bear, not in an offensive agencies have the ability to sustain of assigned federal military forces. partnerships, Masterson said. When commitment to train and to exercise
capability within the U.S., but in a life, DSCA will stand down.” Currently, there are three that a disaster strikes it is the worst time together. Practicing our interoper-
support capability after a disaster,” DSCA is a unity of effort ben- have the training in the State of to exchange business cards. ability in recovery of a simulated
Masterson explained. efit and during the exercise another Alaska, Masterson said. For this “If you know people you are natural disaster allows all of us to
During DSCA, resources and unity of effort benefit will be exer- upcoming exercise, one will be going to be working with ahead test and refine our plans and proce-
capabilities can include logistics, cised – the dual-status commander. chosen to be the DSC. of time, you will know their pro- dures so that if a real disaster takes
command and control, search A dual-status commander is A benefit of DSC is the unity cedures, processes, routines and place in Alaska, we will be better
and rescue, emergency manage- typically a senior National Guard of effort between state National reporting methods,” he explained. prepared to react, provide support
ment, medical, communications officer who may serve in two Guard forces and federal military “You have those relationships and work together.”
Briefs & Announcements
A-4 ARCTIC WARRIOR February 28, 2014
Disposition of effects ter is located on the first floor of regarding this program. General Corps is accepting ap- rolled in the family health, pedi-
Air Force 2nd Lt. Amber Evans, the People Center, Building 8517 At JBER-Richardson, visit plications for the Funded Legal atrics, flight medicine and internal
673d Security Forces Squadron, is and will be open Monday, Tuesday, the Housing Management Office, Education Program and Excess medicine clinics are eligible to
authorized to make disposition of Thursday and Friday from 8 a.m. Building 600, Richardson Drive, Leave Program until March 1. participate.
personal effects of Senior Airman to 3 p.m. and Wednesday 8 a.m. to or call at 384-3088 or 384-7632. The FLEP is a paid legal stud- Patients need to show a mili-
Katrina M. Jackson, 673d SFS, noon. Walk-in service is available ies program for active duty Air tary identification card and provide
as stated in Air Force Instruction but customers having an appoint- Veterinary hours change Force commissioned officers and information, including name, so-
34-511. ment take precedence. The Veterinary Treatment Fa- is an assignment action with par- cial security number, birthday and
Any person or persons having Taxpayers will need proof cility is operating on winter hours. ticipants receiving full pay, allow- email address.
claims for or against the estate of of identity (military ID); social Though the VTF primarily ances and tuition. The enrollment specialist will
the deceased should contact Evans security cards and birth dates for works on military working dogs, FLEP applicants must have be- enter the information and patients
at 552-6523. all dependents; last year’s federal the facility also provides services tween two and six active duty ser- will receive an email which con-
income tax return; wage and earn- for active duty Soldiers, retirees, vice (enlisted or commissioned). tains a link and instructions for
Disposition of effects ing statements from W-2s, W-2Gs, National Guard and Army Re- The ELP is an unpaid legal completing the process.
Army 1st Lt. Justin Kelley, 1st and 1099-Rs; interest and dividend serve Soldiers on active orders studies program for Air Force
Battalion (Airborne), 501st Infan- statements; bank routing and ac- (greater than 30 days), and their officers, and participants do not JBER’s Attic
try Regiment, is authorized to make count numbers for direct deposit; dependents. receive pay and allowances, but re- Joint Base Elmendorf-Rich-
disposition of personal effects of amounts paid to day care provid- The VTF is capable of provid- main on active duty for retirement ardson’s Attic, located in building
Sgt. Okan M. Cetinbag, 1-501st ers; and day care providers’ tax ing care for most routine services, eligibility and benefits purposes. 8515 off of 20th Street, is open
Inf., as stated in Army Regulation identification numbers. including vaccination and sick call. ELP applicants must have on Tuesdays for paygrades E-1
638-2. Appointments can be made by The VTF is open Monday to between two and ten years active to E-4 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. and
Any person or persons having calling the JBER-R tax center at Wednesday, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.; and duty service. 6 p.m. to 8 p.m.; Wednesdays for
claims for or against the estate of 384-1040 or JBER-E tax center at Friday, 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. For more information, email paygrades E-1 to E-6 from 10 a.m.
the deceased should contact Kelley 552-5839. Alternatively, customers For more information and to Air Force Capt. Megan Mallone at to 2 p.m., and the first Saturday of
at [phone]. can make an appointment with one make an appointment, call 384- [email protected]. the month for all paygrades from
of the unit tax advisors, who may 2865. 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Disposition of effects be able to complete tax returns at AFAS Scholarship For more information, call the
Army 1st Lt. Bryan Under- his or her workplace and forward Priority placement The Air Force Aid Society will Attic at 552-5878.
wood, 6th Engineer Battalion, is it to the tax center. The Priority Placement Pro- accept applications for the Gen.
authorized to make disposition of gram and Executive Order 13473 Henry H. Arnold Education Grant Richardson Thrift Shop
personal effects of Sgt. Jose M. Rental Partnership provide non-competitive appoint- until March 7. The JBER-Richardson Thrift
Pasillas, 6th Eng., as stated in Army The Rental Partnership Pro- ment for spouses of active duty ser- Eligible family members will Shop, located in building 724,
Regulation 638-2. gram at JBER is available to all vice members, including full-time have an opportunity to receive up Quartermaster Drive, is open
Any person or persons having eligible active-duty members and National Guard and Reservists, to $2,000 to fund their college edu- Monday through Thursday from 10
claims for or against the estate of consists of two options. who are relocating to accompany cation. To apply, please visit www. a.m. to 2 p.m., and first and third
the deceased should contact Under- The first option, RPP Plus, their service member during a per- afas.org/education-grants. Saturdays from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.
wood at [phone]. includes utilities and sometimes manent change of station. Consignments are accepted
cable costs providing an easier The program allows spouses to MiCare registration Tuesdays and Thursdays.
JBER tax centers open budget with a set rental payment register for Department of Defense MiCare, the online personal For more information, call the
Active duty members, reserv- year round. positions and to be considered for health record and secure messaging Thrift Shop at 384-7000.
ists, retirees, and their family The other option, RPP 5 Per- jobs offered internally. Spouses application, has been available to
members can receive free tax re- cent below market, saves the are matched against potential posi- patients and medical group staff at Arctic Watch
turn assistance and preparation at member five percent off the rental tions, which meet their qualifica- Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson The JBER Antiterrorism Of-
JBER’s tax centers until April 15. fee that other tenants pay however tions and preferences. since 2011. fice encourages all personnel to
Volunteers are trained to pre- utilities are paid for by the tenant. Job placement will vary with Patients can take advantage of be vigilant against threats and
pare 1040 EZ and 1040 tax returns, Both options are made avail- each individual. The spouse re- the ability to communicate with report suspicious activities to
and can provide advice on military able with no deposits or fees to the mains eligible for a maximum of their primary care clinicians online. iWatchArmy at 384-0824 or Eagle
specific tax issues, such as combat member with the exclusion of pet two years from the date of the PCS Registered patients also have Eyes at 552-2256.
zone tax benefits and the effect of fees as applicable. orders and are in the program for access to electronic records, allow-
the Earned Income Credit. Volun- This program is designed one year. ing them to view and maintain their Quartermaster Laundry
teers are also trained on how to deal to provide active-duty military Military spouses who have health records. The Quartermaster Laundry,
with the Alaska Permanent Fund personnel, enlisted and officers, never filled a federal position can Once registered, patients have located at 726 Quartermaster Road,
Dividend. accompanied and unaccompa- now register for PPP. This program the ability to participate in the cleans TA-50 gear for free and is
All tax returns done through nied with affordable off-base had previously been limited to study by completing a short series open Monday to Friday 7:30 a.m.
the tax centers are forwarded housing. spouses on a current federal ap- of surveys during the course of the to 4:30 p.m.
electronically to the IRS, and by An allotment must be executed pointment or had a former federal next year.
selecting direct deposit, taxpayers under either option of the RPP for position in the past. This provides an opportunity Giant Voice testing
can receive their refunds in as little the rental payments which is made Military spouses can register for all active-duty, retired and de- Giant Voice mass notifica-
as one week. directly to the landlord resulting in at the Civilian Personnel Office at pendent patients to have an impact tion system testing occurs every
The JBER-Richardson Tax a more trouble free transactions. JBER-Elmendorf or the personnel on shaping the future of Air Force Wednesday at noon. If the an-
Center is located on the third floor JBER-Elmendorf members can office at JBER-Richardson. The health services. nouncement is difficult to hear or
of Building 600 and will be open see RPP officials at the Capital JBER point of contact is Brenda To register, visit the Military understand, please call 552-3000.
Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, and Asset Management Office, Build- Yaw at 552-9203. Treatment Facility, where enroll- If the announcement is difficult
Friday from 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. and ing 6346, Arctic Warrior Drive, or ment specialists are available in to hear or understand in any base
Thursday from 1 to 8 p.m. call at 552-4328 or 552-4374 for JAG law school programs each primary care clinic. housing area, please contact JBER
The JBER-Elmendorf Tax Cen- further information and assistance The Air Force Judge Advocate All beneficiaries who are en- at Facebook.com/JBERAK.
COMMUNITY
February 28, 2014 ARCTIC WARRIOR Volume 5, No. 8
LEFT: A musher encourages his dogs in a sprint race in
Anchorage Feb. 22. Dog sled sprint races are a fixture
of the annual Fur Rendezvous, a tradition since 1935.
Downtown streets are filled with snow for the events,
which draw locals as well as tourists from around the
world. (U.S. Air Force photo/Steve White)
RIGHT: While carnival
rides are a sign of sum-
mer in the Lower 48,
they’re a sign of the Fur
Rondy in Anchorage.
(The lights are more
dramatic when it actu-
ally gets dark in the
evening.)
BELOW: Soldiers of the
56th Engineer Battalion
pull an “outhouse” in a
race down 4th Avenue.
From left to right: Capt.
Stephen Austria, Cpl.
Matthew Schaul, Sgt.
Brian Sullivan, Staff
Sgt. James Klecka,
Staff Sgt. Kyle Ashley
and Sgt. 1st Class Chad
Price. (U.S. Air Force
photos/Staff Sgt. Sheila
deVera)
ABOVE RIGHT: Members of the 477th Fighter Group participate in the annual outhouse races during the 79th anniversary of Alaska’s largest winter festival. Since 1935, Fur
Rondy has represented the pioneering spirit of Alaskans, offering wild and wacky fun for all ages, offering more than 20 official cultural and sporting activities.
ABOVE: A local resident watches his dog kiss Bill, Gentle Giant of Alaska, Feb. 22. (U.S. Air Force photo/Staff Sgt. Sheila deVera)
LEFT: Alaska residents participate in the 79th anniver-
sary of Alaska’s largest winter festival ‘Fur Rendezvous’
located in downtown Anchorage during the first weekend
of the winter carnival Feb. 23. The 10-day Fur Rondy
offers more than 20 official cultural and sporting activi-
ties, the Anchorage community hosts nearly 50 “Rondy
Round Town” events, offering wacky winter fun for all
ages. This year’s Fur Rondy runs through March 2. (U.S.
Air Force photo/Staff Sgt. Sheila deVera)
BELOW: Fur – coats, wraps, earmuffs, and trooper hats
– is the order of the day. Hats made with mounted wolf,
coyote or bear faces are popular, as are tails, as below.
(U.S. Air Force photo/Steve White)
Matters of Faith
B-2 ARCTIC WARRIOR February 28, 2014
True friends are there for each other – no matter what
Commentary by Chaplain (Capt.) We will meet and know many different times may be rare, but they are lifelong experiences as you have endured yourself.
James Duran people in our lives. Most of them may sim- friends, close, personal and truly a great Thirdly, a friend is someone who can
17th CSSB Chaplain ply be acquaintancess or colleagues. Some, blessing. keep us out of trouble. They help us live up
though, might be friends. One Bible story which depicts a friend- to our potential.
It was in 2011 when on a deployment to Of these, there may be only a few that ship in detail is that of Jonathan and David They inspire us to do the right things, not
Afghanistan, that I was the busiest. we would consider close friends. (1Sam.18:1). things that will bring us disgrace.
It was so hectic that my flight hours had I have two friends that I can truly count When we read this story, it reminds us We need a friend who can guide us away
exceeded of that the battalion commander on for any situation that comes my way. friendship can be built. from trouble and support us as well as take
and sergeant major. These friends are true comrades that There were certain things that could have a stand with us.
There were times when I would return stand out during testing of trials and those destroyed their bonds, but instead, it made That’s a true friend indeed. In the book
from a forward operating base con- them stronger. of Proverbs, chapter 18, the psalmist calls
ducting a religious service and found Their friendship can illustrate some such a person “a friend who sticks closer
there wasn’t enough time to unpack ways we want to emulate. that a brother” (Prov. 18:24).
my rucksack before I was off to First, a friend should be someone A true friend is like a trusted sibling.
the next FOB that needed chaplain we can share our experiences with. They are like a brother that is willing to
support. When Jonathan’s father, Saul, knew fight our battles with us and for us if need
There were more than 60 flights, the people of Israel loved David more be. They don’t go against us or take up sides
which included memorial services, than him, he sought to kill David. with the enemy.
religious services and counseling But Jonathan’s love for his friend A meaningful friendship is one that im-
sessions. David only grew more. pacts you for life.
I also had the responsibility to care Many times he interceded for David Much can be learned from the friendship
for my unit. with his father, and he never wanted of Jonathan and David. Each had accom-
I was blessed to have dedicated anything in return. plished great achievements, relying on God
Christians to fill in for me while I was Friendship should never come with for victory.
traveling. a price. This friendship has been recorded in
When was there enough time to It contains a commitment we have the Bible for us to learn and know that we
decompress? towards one another. too can have that kind of relationship with
Of course, there were outside Secondly, a friend is someone who Christ.
resources to visit and we always seek can identify with our concerns. God is ultimately the one who can
God for guidance, but there are times Both Jonathan and David were heirs bring us through difficult times and never
we need a close friend to communicate to the kingdom – Jonathan by birth and break his relationship with us – even
with. David by decree of God. when it feels like there is no end to our
A friend is someone we can confide It could have easily been a battle problems.
and trust in, and with whom we can between of them, but they showed their It reminds me of the picture of the close
share our hopes and dreams. loyalty to each other and to God’s plan relationship between God the Father and
A friend is there not only through for their lives. Jesus Christ.
the good times, but also the bad times, It is much easier to relate to some- They desire to have that same close per-
David and Jonathan. (Air Force illustration/Chris
someone who will not desert you. one who has gone through similar sonal relationship with every human being.
McCann)
F O R C E http://www.elmendorf-richardson.com
S U P P O R T
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February 28
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D J S T A R T S A T 7 P . M .
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Community Happenings
February 28, 2014 ARCTIC WARRIOR B-3
Through March 5 March 7 Trhough 11 March 27 Trhough 30 For more information, visit
The Addams Family Alaska Aces vs. Condors Alaska Sportsman Show alaskazoo.org. Chapel
The weird and wonderful The Aces take on the Bakers- The Sullivan Arena and Ben
family of Charles Addams come field Condors in ECHL action. Boeke Arena host this annual event Protestant Women of the
to life in this hot new musical com- Sullivan Arena hosts the show- which offers demonstrations, clin- Chapel meetings services
edy. You can check up on Uncle down at 7:15 p.m. Friday and Sat- ics, activities for kids, ranges and Women are invited to meet
Fester, Lurch, and Wednesday at urday nights and 3:05 p.m. Sunday. much more. If you’re looking for with Protestant Women of
the Atwood Concert Hall in the For information, visit alas- outdoor gear, this is the place to be. the Chapel. Bible study happens
Alaska Center for the Performing kaaces.com. Free shuttle service is provided Tuesdays at 9:30 a.m. at Soldiers’ Catholic Mass
Arts. from the University Center and Chapel on JBER-Richardson.
Showtimes vary and matinees March 8 Northway malls. For more information, email Sunday
are available. IditaZoo For information, visit great- [email protected] or 9 a.m. – Soldiers’ Chapel
For more information, visit Meet mushers and their dogs alaskasportsmanshow.com. call 384-1461. 10:30 a.m. – Chapel 1
anchorageconcerts.org. as the Alaska Zoo celebrates the (Elmendorf)
state sport of dog mushing. Learn ongoing Night at the Fights
SaTurday about the history of the Iditarod Wildlife Wednesdays Boxing matches happen every Monday through Friday
Iditarod Ceremonial Start and “race” through checkpoints The Alaska Zoo Gateway Lec- Thursday night at the William A. 11:40 a.m. – Soldiers’ Chapel
The Last Great Race kicks off at the zoo. Or get hands-on with ture Hall hosts lectures beginning Egan Civic Center. Get your box- Monday, Tuesday, Wednes-
with the world-class mushers and mushing equipment or crafts. at 7 p.m. each Wednesday, focus- ing fix; doors open at 6:30 p.m. and day and Friday
dog teams downtown on 4th Ave. The festivities start at noon; ing on a different wildlife research fights start at 7:30. 11:30 a.m. – Chapel 1
for a cermonial first run. kids’ story time starts at 2 p.m. topic. These lectures are aimed at For information, visit thursday- (Elmendorf)
The Iditarod actually starts For more information, visit an older audience, such as uni- nightfights.com. If being ringside Thursday
from Willow. This is also your op- alaskazoo.org or call 341-6463. versity students or adults with an isn’t enough, email jimpatton@gci. 11:30 a.m. – Hospital Chapel
portunity to secure a spot in a sled interest in science. net to fight in a “grudge match.”
basket for next year. March 9 Trhough 14 Partners include fish and game Confession
For more information, visit Hands-on Spring Break authorities from Alaska. Model railroading 30 minutes before Mass at the
iditarod.com. The Anchorage Museum hosts Lectures are free through April The Military Society of Mod- chapel in which Mass is being
this activity series from 2 to 4 p.m. 9, and coffee and tea are always el Railroad Engineers meets at celebrated, or anytime by ap-
Iditarod Day daily. Keep your kids engaged us- available. 7 p.m. Tuesdays and 1 p.m. Sat- pointment. Call 552-4422 or
The Alaska Native Heritage ing their senses – making slimy For information, call 341- urdays in basement Room 35 384-5907
Center hosts this multicultural gak, experimenting with color 6463 or email slhartman@alas- of Matanuska Hall, 7153
event celebrating the Iditarod from vision, and putting your sniffer to kazoo.org. Fighter Drive. Anyone interested Religious Education
11 a.m. to 6 p.m. the test. in model railroading is invited. For Catholic Religious Education
For information, visit alas- For information, visit anchor- AER scholarships information about meetings, work Sundays at 1 p.m., Elmendorf
kanative.net or call 330-8000. agemuseum.org. Army Emergency Relief is tak- days, and shows, call 552-4353, Chapel Center
ing applications for scholarships. visit www.trainweb.org/msmrre or
Try Hockey For Free day March 11, 13 and 15 Scholarships are available email [email protected]. Protestant Sunday
So your kid wants to try hock- Alaska Aces vs. Colorado for children, spouses and other Services
ey. Problem is, he’s never skated, The Aces take on the Eagles at dependents of active duty, retired Borealis Toastmasters
and you don’t want to shell out Sullivan Arena at 7 p.m. Tuesday and deceased Soldiers. Conquer your fear of public Liturgical Service
money on gear just to discover he and Thursday and noon Saturday. Applications and instructions speaking with Toastmasters. 9 a.m. – Elmendorf Chapel 2
hates it. The Aces are 21-7-1 this season are available at aerhq.org. This safe, friendly club Traditional Service
Ben Boeke Ice Arena hosts this and have allowed only 55 goals – For information, call 384-7478. helps build confidence through 9 a.m. – Elmendorf Chapel 1
event, beginning at noon, at which the fewest in the ECHL for this speeches, presentations, feedback Collective Service
certified coaches help kids get out season. Hap Arnold Grants and listening in a supportive en- 11 a.m. – Soldiers’ Chapel
on the ice and experience the game. Catch the action. For informa- The Gen. Hap Arnold Edu- vironment. The club meets every Gospel Service
Equipment is provided; just tion, visit alaskaaces.com. cation Grant Program is taking Thursday in Room 146 of the BP Noon – Elmendorf Chapel 1
bring your potential Bobby Orr. applications through March 7. building from 7 to 8 p.m. Contemporary Service
For information, visit tryhock- March 20 These $2,000 grants are giv- For information, call 575-7470. 5 p.m. – Elmendorf Chapel 1
eyforfree.com. Rebuilding after the quake en to dependents of Air Force
Geology professor Kristine members. Wired Cafe for Airmen Religious Education
March 7 Crossen discusses the 1964 earth- For eligibility information, or The Wired Cafe at 7076 Fight- Protestant Religious Education
Portland Cello Project quake in terms of geology. to fill out an application, visit www. er Drive, between Polaris and Wednesdays at 5:45 p.m.,
This epic live show can make The 9.2 quake was the stron- afas.org/education-grants. Yukla dormitories, has wireless Soldiers’ Chapel. Free dinner
the most dedicated symphony fan gest ever in North America, and Internet access and programs followed by 6:30 p.m. classes
nod his head to hip-hop covers or a vastly altered portions of the Zoo Lights throughout the week for single for all age groups.
guest jam band doing 19th-century Anchorage Bowl. Important deci- Thursday through Sunday of Airmen living in the dorms.
Russian compositions. sions made in the rebuilding affect each week, visit the Anchorage There are also free homestyle
Naturally, cellos rule the day Anchorage today. Zoo and enjoy the lighted parade meals Fridays at 6 p.m. about an animal species, followed
starting at 7:30 p.m. at the Alaska Learn more at the Anchorage of animals. Then check out the real For information, call 552-4422. by meeting animals mentioned in
Center for the Performing Arts. Museum starting at 7:30 p.m. animals under canopies of lights. the story, starting at 10:30 a.m.
For more information, visit For more information, call Shake off the dark of winter Storytime for Toddlers Mondays at the coffee shop.
anchorageconcerts.org or call 929-9201 or visit anchoragemu- from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. during Pre-school-aged children For information, email camp@
263-2787. seum.org. February. can join zoo staff for stories alaskazoo.org.
e e n t s & a c t i v i t i e s
V Check out the January
Alaskan Adventurer
Free  Movie  Night  at  the  Talkeetna  Theater
All Ranks Club
Texas
February 28
Free Birds - 6:30 p.m.
BLDG. 655
Bullet - 9 p.m.
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$5sca n fwioth ryo urN smaort npho-neM’s QRe Rmeaderb aned rgos straight to ww$2w5.fa, c5e0bo &ok .c7o5m /VJBiEsRa6 7G3iFfStS Cards Bldg. 7122 Fighter Drive for more info
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12 Weekly Rounds
Top 9 Qualify Every Week for Tournament

JBER OUTDOOR RECREATION

S G T
NOWMACHINE UIDED OUR
...... WILLOW:  March  15,  8  a.m.  -­  5  p.m.  $150
PETERSVILLE:  March  7  &  29,  7  a.m.  -­  5  p.m.  $185
SSnnaapp!! IDITAROD  RACE:  March  2,  8  a.m.  -­  5  p.m.  $150
Sign  up  at    JBER-­E  ORC,  Bldg.  7301
Trips  depart  from  JBER-­R  ORC,  Bldg.  794
SSHHOOWW    UUSS    YYOOUURR
sseellffiiee Bring  cold  weather  gear  and  lunch.
Helmet  and  transportation  included.  Inappropriate  attire  will
result  in  non-­attendance.
All  trips  must  meet  minimum  signup  requirements
and  are  subject  to  change  due  to  weather  conditions.
HOW TO ENTER WIN THESE
C T C
USTOMIZED OURS AND LASSES
Call  us  and  let  us  know  when  and  where  you  want  to  go!
Requires  advance  notice  and  meet  mimimum
participation  requirements.
F
ISHING
We  have  everything  you  need  for  Ice  Fishing
and  all  the  other  kinds  fishing  that  will  soon  be  starting.
We  sell  AK  State  Fishing  Licenses  and  King  Stamps.
We  also  have  fishing  gear  and  tackle  for  renting!
Outdoor Recreation Center | JBER Elmendorf | Bldg. 7301 | 552-2023
http://www.elmendorf-richardson.com
Birth Announcements
B-4 ARCTIC WARRIOR February 28, 2014
Feb. 10 was born 19.25 inches long and weighing 7 A son, Harley James Higley, was born A daughter, Abigail Lane Beckstrom,
A son, Graysen Jax Varner, was born pounds, 1 ounce at 7:44 a.m. to Air Force 20 inches long and weighing 8 pounds, 12 was born 21 inches long and weighing 8
20.5 inches long and weighing 7 pounds, Staff Sgt. Jillian Ann Noe Salazar and ounces at 8:37 a.m. to Katie Renice Woerz- pounds, 10 ounces at 3:48 a.m. to Katie
11 ounces at 5:18 a.m. to Air Force Master Air Force Staff Sgt. Richard II Melchor Higley and Spc. Ryan Allen Higley of the Beckstrom and Pfc. Maxwell John Beck-
Sgt. Stephanie Cynthia Varner of the 673d Salazar, both of the 673d Medical Support 2nd Battalion, 377th Parachute Field Artil- strom of the 2nd Battalion, 377th Parachute
Air Base Wing and David Karl Varner II. Squadron. lery Regiment. Field Artillery Regiment.
Feb. 11 Feb. 14 Feb. 18 A son, Grayson D. Yates, was born 22
A daughter, Aurora Rose Atkins, was A daughter, Olivia Lucille Barrale, was A son, Kason Adrick Mayton, was born inches long and weighing 8 pounds, 11 ounes
born 20 inches long and weighing 7 pounds, born 20 inches long and weighing 8 pounds, 20.5 inches long and weighing 8 pounds, to Kacy Leigh Yates and Petty Officer 3rd
15 ounces at 3:58 a.m. to Army 1st Lt. Sarah 8 ounces at 3:11 p.m. to Ambra Nicole Bar- 7 ounces at 9:39 a.m. to Stephanie Diane Class Joshua Daniel Yates of Coast Guard
Lynne Atkins. rale and Spc. Eric Vincent Barrale of the Mayton and Spc. Daniel Blake Mayton of Sector Anchorage.
425th Brigade Special Troops Battalion the 1st Battalion (Airborne), 501st Infantry
Feb. 12 (Airborne). Regiment. Feb. 21
A daughter, Trinity Renee Casas, was A son, Jeremy Lee Saitnowski, Jr. was
born 21 inches long and weighing 9 pounds A son, Angelo Arturo Garcia, was born Feb. 19 born 22.5 inches long and weighing 8
at 3:33 a.m. to Tabetha Renee Casas and 19.5 inches long and weighing 7 pounds, 4 A daughter, Charlotte Iris Acostinho, pounds, 15 ounces at 1:30 p.m. to Amanda
Pfc. David Alan Casas of the 3rd Battalion ounces at 12:54 p.m. to Elisa Ribeiro Garcia was born 18.5 inches long and weigh- Rae Saitnowski and Sgt. Jeremy Lee Sait-
(Airborne), 509th Infantry Regiment. and Sgt. Arturo Garcia of the 3rd Battalion ing 6 pounds, was born at 6:17 p.m. to nowski of the 2nd Engineer Brigade.
(Airborne), 509th Infantry Regiment. Bobbie Nicole Agostinho and Sgt. Bryan
A daughter, Sadie Jo’ Cathey, was born Pereira Agostinho of the 95th Chemical Feb. 22
20.75 inches long and weighing 7 pounds, 11 A son, Ethan Amias Donshay Holliness, Company. A son, Pedro Alonso Chavez III, was
ounces at 4:50 p.m. to Chelsey Joe Cathey was born 21 inches long and weighing 7 born 21 inches long and weighing 6 pounds,
and Airman 1st Class Justin Chad Cathey of pounds, 3 ounces at 12:03 a.m. to Army A son, Alexander Blake Chaney, was 9 ounces at 12:54 a.m. to Ericka Ann Chave
the 381st Intelligence Squadron. Staff Sgt. Monica Lynn Holliness of the 56th born 20 inches long and weighing 7 pounds, and Sgt. 1st Class Pedro Alonso Chavez Jr.
Engineer Company and Sgt. 1st Class Eddie 9 ounces at 3:25 p.m. to Natasha Johann of the 1st Squadron (Airborne), 40th Cavalry
A daughter, Aunalysia Chareunvong Donshay Holliness of the 164th Military Chaney and Army Staff Sgt. Robert Christo- Regiment.
Ford, was born 20.5 inches long and weigh- Police Company. pher Chaney Sr. of the 109th Transportation
ing 7 pounds, 9 ounces at 7:37 a.m. to Linda Company. A daughter, Peyton Alexis Riley, was
Ford and Air Force Staff Sgt. Matthew Brian Feb. 17 born weighing 7 pounds, 4 ounces at 1:42
Ford of the 53rd Combat Communications A daughter, Gwen Lyn Blyth, was born A daughter, Alyssa Joy Madsen, was a.m. to Ashlea Nicole Riley and Air Force
Squadron. 19 inches long and weighing 6 pounds, 2 born 23 inches long and weighing 9 pounds, Staff Sgt. Alex Raymond Riley of the 3rd
ounces at 2:13 a.m. to Keli Lyn Blyth and 14 ounces at 12:26 p.m. to Lauren Renee Operations Support Squadron.
Feb. 13 Army Capt. Edward K. Blyth of the 3rd Bat- Madsen and Sgt. 1st Class Eric Scott Madsen
A son, Josiah Eli Bright, was born talion (Airborne), 509th Infantry Regiment. of the 6th Engineer Battalion. Feb. 23
21inches long and weighing 7 pounds, 9 A son, Caleb Elkanah Hayes, was born
ounces at 6:17 p.m. to Jasmine Nicole Bright A son, Waylon Alan Graham, was born Feb. 20 21 inches long and weighing 7 pounds,
and Sgt. Ja’son Tyell Bright of the 3rd Bat- 19.5 inches long and weighing 7 pounds, 7 A son, Hunter Wayne Scott, was born 19 11 ounces at 5:12 a.m. to Amanda Ma-
talion (Airborne), 509th Infantry Regiment. ounces at 1:33 a.m. to Kerri Renae Graham inches long and weighing 8 pounds, 5 ounces rie hayes and Sgt. William Cody Hayes
and Pfc. Nathan Gordon Graham of the at 5:25 p.m. to Emily Elizabeth Scott and of the 1st Battalion (Airborne), 501st Infan-
A daughter, Robyn Olivia Noe Salazar, 725th Brigade Support Battalion (Airborne). Patrick Wayne Scott. try Regiment.
Housekeeping manager treats lodging quality as a labor of love
By Air Force Staff Sgt. Robert Barnett Benton didn’t always work
JBER Public Affairs in housekeeping, but she said
her background pays off.
Dorene Benton cut open box after box in a warehouse “My background is in
on Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson. The boxes were filled banking,” she said. “I think
with linens, and the 673d Force Support Squadron house- accounting helps me with this
keeping manager meticulously inspected them. job because there are numbers
The last thing she wanted was to give the military guests to keep track of. How many are
staying in JBER lodging substandard sheets. She had several checking out? How many are
pallets of boxes to go through and needed to inspect them coming in? I have to figure out
all, but to Benton, the mission is worth the hard work. how much time to spend per
“Our main mission is to support the military members unit because we have to keep
and their families when they are traveling,” Benton said. up with Air Force standards.
“We provide the best possible lodging for people who are I have to look at the financial
on a temporary duty assignment or are moving, or when we side of it, too, because of per-
have availability for space-available travelers who might sonnel and budget.”
need a place to stay for a couple nights.” The housekeeping man-
Benton manages more than 50 employees in 25 of the 31 ager said she is used to military
lodging facilities on JBER. While much of what her team culture – and that enables her
does is visible, most people might not realize how much to better serve those who serve. Dorene Benton inspects boxes of linens in a warehouse on Joint Base Elmendorf-
they do to keep guests comfortable, she said. “I love the military life,” Richardson, Alaska, Feb. 20. Benton manages more than 50 employees in 25 out
“We’re the ones clearing the sidewalks and paths from the native of Melbourne, Fla., of 31 lodging facilities on JBER. (U.S. Air Force photo/Staff Sgt. Robert Barnett)
the parking lot when there’s snow,” she said. “We pick up said. “It’s all I’ve known. My
in the summer when there are cigarette butts and other trash father and grandfather were military; my husband’s military. there. They keep us going.”
around the building. When you walk inside and there’s a nice I’ve never served, but I’ve lived around Air Force and Navy Benton’s passion continues to drive her.
smell and a clean floor, that’s us. We’re the ones keeping the bases basically my whole life. My siblings don’t have that “I want to say thank you to our guests, just thank you,”
place beautiful. Most of our job is visible; we’re all about experience. It makes me appreciate it when I see all the hard she said. “All those comment cards – we actually read
pleasing our guests, that’s what we’re here for.” work that service members do every day.” through those. Most of them are positive and we really ap-
Sometimes keeping guests comfortable can mean antici- “[Dorene]’s phenomenal, definitely a team player,” preciate that. If there is something that we need to be doing,
pating needs – like in springtime, when Alaskans are melting said Heidi Payton, 673d FSS lodging manager on JBER- politely let us know. There are so many regulations we need
in the heat but it’s still “cold” to people from Outside. Richardson, and a native of Shenandoah, Iowa. “She puts to follow, and our budget is limited, but as long as it’s within
“We have to make sure we have plenty of blankets; dur- everything she has into the job. She makes it a top priority. our limits, we’re happy to do it.
ing Red Flag we get a lot of people from other countries and Housekeeping is the eyes and the ears of lodging. No one “We appreciate that we’re given the opportunity to serve
the Lower 48 that aren’t used to the cold,” she said. “When person can be in all the buildings at once. Housekeeping the ones who serve for us. That’s the biggest thing for me;
civil engineering shuts off the heat [in spring], we have to plays a vital role. They’re out there with the customers taking I couldn’t run those miles or carry all that heavy stuff, but
offer extra blankets to keep them warm. We have to make care of them from check-in to check-out, keeping an eye on maybe I can give you a soft pillow and a blanket. Maybe I can
sure they are good quality and meet Air Force standards.” all our rooms and the buildings. They make it happen out make that a little bit better. We so appreciate the military.”
February 28, 2014 Arctic Warrior A-5
A-6 Arctic Warrior February 28, 2014