Exercise Serpentex 16

40 Pages·2016·12.33 MB·English

March 18, 2016 HAVE YOU READ YOUR KA TODAY? Volume 40, number 11
Exercise Serpentex 16: Cleared hot
Story and photo by erability and multinational
Staff Sgt. Sara Keller training between allies.
86th Airlift Wing Other U.S. Air Force
Public Affairs participants include three
B-52 Stratofortress bombers
CORSICA, France — from the 2nd Bomb Wing,
Airmen from the U.S. and Barksdale Air Force Base,
11 NATO countries offi cial- Louisiana. Other countries
ly kicked off the French- participating include France,
led exercise Serpentex 16 Belgium, Canada, the
March 7 on the island of Czech Republic, Denmark,
Corsica, France. Germany, Italy, Jordan, Saudi
Approximately 215 Arabia, Slovenia, Spain and
Airmen, including joint ter- the United Kingdom.
minal attack controllers “Exercises like Serpentex
from the 2nd Air Support are exciting and extreme-
Operations Squadron from ly useful because we get to
Vilseck, Germany, are par- learn different countries’
ticipating in the annual exer- equipment and how they
cise held at NATO’s tacti- would control in a real-
cal training center and the word scenario,” said Senior
French air force’s Air Base Airman Gage Duvall, 2nd
126 Solenzara. ASOS JTAC. “I know that
Senior Airman Gage Duvall, 2nd Air Support Operations Squadron joint terminal attack controller, prepares his
The multinational exercise we will be able to learn a few
radio during exercise Serpentex 16 March 7 in Corsica, France. Serpentex 16 is an annual French-led exercise that is
is focused on the training designed to enhance NATO operations and training between allies and partners. The exercise helped enhance readi- things from all the different
of U.S. and NATO aircrews ness and reinforce relations in a joint and combined training environment. JTACs, and hopefully they
and JTACs on the air and will get to learn something
land integration mission, to action of air- and surface- we work with JTACs from and know how to better work from us.”
include close air support, based fi re at the tactical level. other countries, and some- with our allies when we are The training exercise will
dynamic targeting, strike They are the Airmen on the times we do things a little in those situations.” continue through March 25
coordination and reconnais- ground with the authority to differently,” said Tech. Sgt. Serpentex has occurred with a variety of training
sance, and live ordnance control and direct airstrikes Jeremy Rarang, 2nd ASOS annually since 2008 and has scenarios to increase the Air
operations. on targets. JTAC. “This exercise is giv- contributed to the develop- Force’s ability to work side
JTACs are qualifi ed ser- “There are times, like ing us the opportunity to ment of U.S. and NATO rela- by side with its European
vice members who direct the when we are deployed, when build partnership capacity tions, capabilities, interop- allies and partners.
76th AS executes mission on four continents
by Senior Airman Nicole Sikorski ers and ensure a continuous aero- Lew, U.S. treasury secretary, to travel Command commander, and to resup-
86th Airlift Wing Public Affairs medical evacuation capability. The to China for the G-20 Economic ply the China-bound aircraft with
success of the simultaneous recent Summit on a C-40B. both fuel and food.
Airmen from the 76th Airlift mission surge highlighted the squad- In addition to transporting lead- Not only did Airmen deal with
Squadron engaged in fl ight opera- ron’s ability to meet mission require- ers, Airmen staged aircrew members multiple factors that could have
tions Feb. 21 through March 3 on ments well beyond its normal areas at Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson, interfered with logistics but also the
four different continents across the of responsibility. Alaska, using a C-40B and C-37A to time difference around the globe.
globe. In addition to a 10-day C-21A mis- support both the operation in China For a small unit of 110 personnel,
The 76th’s mission is to pro- sion to Africa and a combat deploy- and a stateside mission for Gen. this was a big task, but the team did
vide safe, world-class priority air- ment to Afghanistan, Airmen from Phillip Breedlove, Supreme Allied
lift for civilian and military lead- the 76th AS also enabled Jacob L. Command Europe and U.S. European See MISSION, Page 3
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NCO academy begins Germans observe Easter
until March 31.
fi rst European ILE, Page 8 traditions, Page 14
Page 2 Kaiserslautern American March 18, 2016
From DWI to resilience trainer
by Staff Sgt. Timothy Moore the best assignments in the Air Fools’ joke on my career. It was me. Even some of the people I
86th Airlift Wing Public Affairs Force, but I wasn’t really happy even crueler as both my first ser- considered friends from Davis-
about either one. geant and my supervisor, who Monthan stopped talking to me.
U.S. Air Forces in Europe I’m not one of those people only hours earlier saw me win a I wasn’t being tasked with any
recently gained more than 70 that want to rush to rank. Yes, distinguished award, had to pick job. Most people didn’t even
master resilience trainers; I more money and more opportu- me up from a police station. look me in the eyes.
count myself lucky to be one nities come with it but so does I sometimes still feel the sad I felt as if I had been put off
of them. However, some people more responsibility, and that was pat on my back my first ser- to the side as if to say, “He’ll
would say the Air Force is lucky the focus of my mind. I wasn’t geant gave me as my supervisor be out of here soon. Let’s just
to count me as one of its MRTs. sure I was ready to lead and walked me out of the station to make sure he doesn’t do any
The people who know my be in charge of someone else’s head home, and that honestly more damage to our reputation.”
personal Air Force history have career, even though my super- hurt more than the actual pun- No one actually said this, and I
referred to me as the epitome of intendent at the time told me I ishment I got from getting a don’t think I would have blamed
resilience. I don’t know about was being groomed to be a chief DWI. them if they had, but actions can
that myself, but let me share my master sergeant. The first few days were rough. often speak louder than words.
history with you. Additionally, I got picked I went through a cycle of grief. Initially, I had to find things
I enlisted in the Air Force in up for Ramstein because it was I denied it happened, but my car to do. Some people took notice
2010 after graduating college still on my selection sheet from missing from my driveway said of my initiative and started task-
with my bachelor’s degree in when I was engaged to a French otherwise. I got angry at myself ing me again. The first person
physics. In basic military train- woman, who I broke up with for being stupid. I barely ate or was actually another senior air-
ing, I had one goal: to leave with two years prior, because it was got out of bed. I even laid down man who needed help covering
my military training instructor the closest the Air Force could once and asked God to just let a story for the base paper. Then,
not knowing my name. I failed, get me to the part of France me make it through this with- the person who would eventu-
as I was picked to be an element where her family lived without out being kicked out of the Air ally become my new supervisor
leader shortly after getting there, being assigned to a consulate. Force. Then, I finally accepted had a conversation with me.
and I finished BMT as an honor I also had to let another rela- that if I didn’t get kicked out I She asked me how I was
graduate. tionship go because Ramstein would do my best to leave the doing, made sure I wasn’t plan-
I then proceeded to tech- placed distance between us. Air Force on my terms. At least, ning to hurt myself or give up.
nical training at Fort Meade, So, I wasn’t thrilled about I thought I had accepted it. Then, she said she was proud
Maryland, where I was one of either aspect as they brought up My blood alcohol level wasn’t of me for not giving up because
the top students but fell just questions I wasn’t really ready high enough to warrant a more she had seen other Airmen, even
short of distinguished graduate. to deal with: Am I ready to be severe punishment, so my com- some in our shop, who would
I arrived at my first duty sta- an NCO? How am I going to mander gave me a letter of rep- have had they been in my shoes.
tion, Davis-Monthan Air Force deal with being in a location that rimand and took away my line She also encouraged me to keep
Base, Arizona, where I won two brings up a moment, in my mind number for staff sergeant, a going and to be an example
wing staff agencies’ Airman of at least, when I failed? guarantee to a referral enlisted to other Airmen. I’m just now
the quarter awards while stay- But I pushed on as expected, performance report and a warn- realizing that was the moment I
ing active in my community as and I only brought up my res- ing that I had put myself on the gave up most of my reservations
Y
a volunteer lead and pursuing ervations about being an NCO chopping block should a force about being an NCO.
R
the few credits my bachelor’s to my new leaders at Ramstein reduction require it. So, I kept plugging along
A didn’t cover for my Community before I headed to Airman The situation was not ideal, doing what I could to show that
College of the Air Force degree. Leadership School, where again but I was still in the Air Force incident wasn’t indicative of the
T
All of these things played a I excelled as I graduated at the at the moment and still able person I am and strive to be.
N part in me being awarded the top of my class as the John L. to work toward being better. I had to admit some things to
rank of senior airman early, Levitow Award winner. However, this was harder than myself. I had fallen, my rela-
E
under the Below-the-Zone pro- Things were looking to con- I thought. tionship issues were bigger to
M gram, which in turn allowed me tinue onward and upward for my I had to make some person- me than I realized, those fears of
to test for staff sergeant a year career, until I made a mistake. al changes to better suit my being an NCO were part of the
M earlier than I normally would The very same night I gradu- unit, but I definitely didn’t get a underlying cause to my heavier
have. I found out I made staff ated ALS as the Levitow award warm fuzzy feeling from them. drinking and reckless behavior,
O sergeant shortly before find- winner was the same night I Many of my co-workers, both and it hurt to be shunned.
ing out I would be making a was charged with driving while Airmen and NCOs I thought I My referral EPR came as
C permanent change of station intoxicated. It was April 1, 2014, had formed bonds with, quick-
to Ramstein, arguably one of one heck of a buildup to an April ly distanced themselves from See commentary, Page 7
including insert or supplements, does not constitute Deadlines: AdvantiPro Team
endorsement by the DOD, the Department of the Air Force • News, feature, school articles and photos – noon Thursday
or the AdvantiPro GmbH of the products or the services for the following week’s edition Editor Allison M. Conley
advertised. • Sports articles and photos – noon Thursday for the follow-
The Kaiserslautern American is published by Sales Team Armand Derderian, Anita Köhler
AdvantiPro GmbH, Kaiserslautern, Germany, a private Everything advertised in this publication shall be made ing week’s edition
firm in no way connected with the Department of the available for purchase, use or patronage without regard to • Free (space available) classifieds – noon Tuesday for that  Holly Ginas, Karin Flick
Air Force or the Department of the Army, under exclu- race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, marital status, same week’s KA Display Ads Jennifer Holdsworth
sive contract with the 86th Airlift Wing. physical handicap, political affiliation or any other non AdvantiPro staff encourages reader comments. Send Ad Design & Layout Alexander Pütz
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March 18, 2016 Kaiserslautern American Page 3
mission, from Page 1 Lindstrom said. “Our aircrews are the hinder the Ramstein team, as they a small unit at Ramstein is signifi-
primary conduit for the planning, but are always “Forward, Ready, Now,” cant. We’ve never done it before, and
not miss a beat, according to Lt. Col. everything channels back through our said Lt. Col. Daniel Mangan, 76th AS we accomplished it with only 110
Craig Lindstrom, 76th AS director of squadron operations center. It was commander. people, using four different airplane
operations. truly a team effort between the 76th “We’re forward here in Europe to types at the same time, while also
“The level of effort required to AS and the 603rd (Air Operations support (distinguished visitors) and combat deployed and while provid-
simultaneously plan and support Center) (distinguished visitors) plans to provide aeromedical (evacuation) ing 24/7/365 aeromedical ‘evac’ cov-
operations on four continents, encir- shop.” capability,” Mangan said. “Being on erage for Europe, North Africa and
cling the globe, was (impressive),” The challenges presented did not four continents at the same time from the Middle East.”
Hiring Our Heroes comes to KMC, guides smooth transitions
Lt. Col. Mark Sherkey, Northeast U.S. and Europe U.S. Army Soldier For Life
regional director, talks during a Hiring Our Heroes Kaiserslautern Military
Community Transition Summit March 10 on Vogelweh. Leaders spoke during
Key speakers talk about their organizations, what they offer, and answer questions during a Hiring Our Heroes the summit to empower transitioning service members to take control of their
Kaiserslautern Military Community Transition Summit March 10 on Vogelweh. futures and make informed decisions.
Story and photos by Our Heroes senior manager. During the summit, attend- companies actively seeking invaluable to not only what
Airman 1st Class “We try to go where we’re ees listened to leaders empow- veteran employees is increas- we do but mostly to the ser-
Larissa Greatwood needed, and our goal is to ering them to make informed ing, and events like this help vice members and spouses
86th Airlift Wing help service members and decisions. Key speakers talk- other organizations under- because they’re wanted by
Public Affairs their families create a more ed about actively seeking to stand the unique talents and these companies, who can see
seamless transition into the hire veterans for their com- abilities military members how much of an asset they
A Hiring Our Heroes civilian workforce.” panies and were given the have to offer, making them can be.”
Kaiserslautern Military Worley said the veteran opportunity to attend work- very desirable. The Hiring Our Heroes
Community Transition unemployment rate is the shops to improve networking “Because of the gener- event gave transitioning ser-
Summit was held March 10 lowest it’s been in seven connections, as well as given ous support of our sponsors, vice members the opportuni-
and 11 on Vogelweh. The pur- years at just under 4 percent. information on how to start we’re able to do this event,” ty to become more informed
pose of the summit was to Programs like Hiring Our their own businesses. Worley said. “Companies about their options for their
inform transitioning service Heroes could be a key factor Staff Sgt. Joe Filipowski, who want to hire veterans and futures. By assisting dur-
members and their spouses in educating and progressive- 86th Medical Support their spouses are really set- ing transitions, veterans can
of programs and companies ly decreasing this statistic. Squadron contingency opera- ting a gold standard and are remain just as successful in
to assist through and after the “A lot of veteran service tions NCO, said the event was reaching out to other com- the civilian sector as they
process of leaving the mili- organizations, like (Hiring beneficial and educated him panies as well, and that is so were in the military.
tary. Our Heroes), know they’re on opportunities.
Hiring Our Heroes is a doing the work they need “The summit has helped
nationwide U.S. Chamber of to be doing, but what some me gain confidence for when
Commerce foundation to help people don’t realize is more I do separate,” Filipowski
transitioning military mem- than half of the transition- said. “It’s good to start plan-
bers and their spouses find ing service members popu- ning to transition as early as
jobs and opportunities after lation is unemployed in the possible. Some military mem-
their service commitments. first 15 months of getting out bers may have less time to
“We hold about 20 of these of the military,” Worley said. plan, so I think this experi-
transitioning summits annu- “The summits are designed ence would be beneficial to
ally on military installations, to get those service members them, especially because they
primarily around the U.S., but thinking ahead of time about provide immediate contacts PETB OIOD-COLRE ARENMINOGVAL VaAcTc-efoprtmeds
also a few international ones, opportunities because a lot of for careers and organizations
like this one in Germany,” times they don’t know where for assistance.” Kaiserstr. 54 a (across from City Hall) • 66849 Landstuhl • Tel.: [phone]
Spittelstr. 3 (near Stift splatz) • 67655 Kaiserslautern • Tel.: [phone]
said Sarah Worley, Hiring to start.” Worley said the number of
Page 4 Kaiserslautern American March 18, 2016
5 p.m.: Vandalism was reported on Vogelweh.
COMPILED BY THE MARCH 12
569TH USFPS AND 86TH SFS 12:55 a.m.: Drunken operation of a vehicle and
fl eeing the scene in Sembach.
1 a.m.: Major traffi c accident with injuries in
Katzweiler.
3:50 a.m.: Drunken operation of a vehicle in
Kaiserslautern.
6 a.m.: Drunken operation of a vehicle in
Kaiserslautern.
6:05 a.m.: Drunken operation of a vehicle in
MARCH 7
and fl eeing the scene in Landstuhl. Kaiserslautern.
5:50 p.m.: Major traffi c accident without injuries in 1 p.m.: Major traffi c accident with injuries in
MARCH 9
Kaiserslautern. Ramstein-Miesenbach.
6:25 p.m.: Mutual assault with injuries on Vogelweh 7:47 a.m.: Major traffi c accident with injuries in 9:30 p.m.: Damage to private property and assault
Military Family Housing. Rodenbach. in Otterberg.
10:30 p.m.: Major traffi c accident without injuries 7:50 a.m.: Operating a vehicle without valid reg-
MARCH 13
in Ramstein-Miesenbach. istration or license plates was reported on Kapaun.
8:10 a.m.: Major traffi c accident with injuries in 2 a.m.: Major traffi c accident without injuries, fl ee-
MARCH 8
Kaiserslautern. ing the scene, false offi cial statements and reckless
4:03 a.m.: Major traffi c accident without injuries 11:38 a.m.: Major traffi c accident without injuries driving in Hauptstuhl.
and fl eeing the scene in Ramstein-Miesenbach. on Vogelweh Military Family Housing. 4:12 a.m.: Drunken operation of a vehicle in
9:23 a.m.: Major traffi c accident without injuries in 2:02 p.m.: Mutual assault was reported to the KMC Kaiserslautern.
Kaiserslautern. Law Enforcement Desk. 5:04 a.m.: Drunken operation of a vehicle in
3 p.m.: Major traffi c accident without injuries and Kaiserslautern.
MARCH 10
fl eeing the scene in Kaiserslautern. 5:55 a.m.: Drunken operation of a vehicle in
3:10 p.m.: Major traffi c accident without injuries in 1:45 p.m.: Minor traffi c accident without injuries Kaiserslautern.
Kaiserslautern. and fl eeing the scene was reported to the KMC Law 6:32 a.m.: Drunken operation of a vehicle in
5:13 p.m.: Minor traffi c accident without injuries Enforcement Desk. Kaiserslautern.
Editor’s note: The purpose of the weekly blotter is to deliver a chronological listing of criminal activity in the KMC. The information contained in the blot-
ter is not indicative of crime trends or the targeting of service members or their dependents. The location and nature of the entries is dependent upon where
the crime was reported and not necessarily where the crime took place.
Reported Larcenies
Closures
or Master Sgt. Reyes at 590-6468 or dependent ID cardholders with a high school
The KMC Housing Offi ce and Furnishings 06371-9464-6468. diploma or equivalent. Applicants must attend
Management Section will be closed March 25 the mass briefi ng at 3:30 p.m. April 4 in the
Landstuhl tax offi ces relocated
and 28 for German legal holidays. Customer Ramstein Dental Clinic, Bldg. 301. Interviews
service hours will resume March 29. For ques- The Landstuhl Tax Assistance Center on will be conducted April 6 through 7, and noti-
tions or concerns, call 489-6672. Wilson Barracks in Landstuhl has moved to fi cation of selection will be announced April
the Landstuhl heliport, Bldg. 3368. The heli- 8. Participants will inprocess April 11 through
Gate hours change
port is located on the left when driving up the 22. Applicants must be dedicated, motivated
Gate 9 on Vogelweh Military Family Housing, hill to the Landstuhl main gate. Once through and up-to-date on all immunizations. Further
off B-270, is currently open from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. the heliport main gate, turn left and proceed to information, applications and interview slots
daily. Beginning April 6, Gate 9 on VMFH will Bldg. 3368. The entrance to the tax center is on will be given at the mass briefi ng. Volunteers
close temporarily for construction. To accom- the left side of the building. will be full time from the start date. For more
modate the increase of traffi c, Gate 10, next to information, call 479-2210, 06371-46-2096,
Kaiserslautern County offi ces
Vogelweh Child Development Center, will open 479-2056 or 06371-46-2056.
for outbound traffi c only from 7 to 8:30 a.m. Renovations of the Kaiserslautern County
New opening hours
Monday through Friday. Administration building, Lauterstrasse 8 in
Kaiserslautern across from city hall and next Landstuhl Tourist Information will have
Women's History Month event
to the German-American Community Offi ce, new opening hours starting April 1. Hours will
In honor of Women’s History Month, there will start soon. Starting Monday, the majority be 9 a.m. to noon and 1 to 4 p.m. Mondays to
will be a leadership panel from 11:30 a.m. to of offi ces will move to the former SWK build- Fridays and 9 a.m. to noon Saturdays.
1 p.m. today in the Kaiserslautern Military ing at Burgstrasse 11, including the drivers
Community Center food court meeting room. license offi ce, vehicle registration, offi ce of
Guest speakers include Col. Andra Kniep, Chief public order, school administration and traffi c
Master Sgt. Amber Mitchell, Chief Master Sgt. offi ces as well as the foreigner’s offi ce. Last
Tamar Dennis, Senior Master Sgt. Roelma week, the youth and sports department moved
e
Wood, and First Sgt. Christina Bhatti. For to Fischerstrasse 12. The County Music School
t details, contact [email protected]. permanently moved to the Union Community
o Offi ce in Otterberg, Hauptstrasse 27. For
Clinical Competency Day
more information, call 0631-7105-0 or email
N Did you know, if you are caught driv-
Clinical Competency Day is scheduled from [email protected].
ing on base without a seatbelt or one of
7:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. on March 31 in Heaton
Dental volunteer program your passengers is not wearing theirs
e Auditorium at Landstuhl Regional Medical
you will receive a seven-day suspen-
Center. The event will include six informa- The Ramstein Dental Clinic will start the
k sion of on-base driving privileges and
tion stations and 24 skill stations. LRMC is American Red Cross Dental Assistant Volunteer
three points on your license. Seatbelts
a extending invitations to all health care units Program April 25. The course will be held from
are a proven life safety feature. Use it!
T within the KMC. For more information, contact 6:45 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday
Capt. Dixon at 590-5243 or 06371-9464-5243, for seven months. This program is open to
March 18, 2016 Kaiserslautern American Page 5
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Page 6 Kaiserslautern American March 18, 2016
Serpentex 16 enhances NATO operations and training
Photos by Staff Sgt. Sara Keller
Canadian and French joint terminal attack controllers prepare their equipment for the first day
of training during exercise Serpentex 16 March 7 in Corsica, France. Training and theater security
cooperation engagements with U.S. allies and partners, such as exercise Serpentex, demonstrate
U.S. Air Force, Canadian and Belgian joint terminal attack controllers train together during
a shared commitment to promoting security and stability.
exercise Serpentex 16 March 7 in Corsica, France. JTACs provide terminal control of both air and
surface based fire at the tactical level. Approximately 215 Airmen, including JTACs from the 2nd
Air Support Operations Squadron from Vilseck, Germany, are participating in the annual exercise
held at NATO’s tactical training center and the French air force’s Air Base 126 Solenzara, France.
Tech. Sgt. Jeremy Rarang, 2nd Air Support Operations Squadron joint terminal attack control-
ler (left), interacts with fellow JTACs from the Royal Canadian Horse Artillery during exercise
Serpentex 16 March 7 in Corsica, France. Serpentex 16 is an annual French-led exercise that is
designed to enhance NATO operations and training between allies and partners. The exercise
helped enhance readiness and reinforce relations in a joint and combined training environment.
Tech. Sgt. Jeremy Rarang (left) and Senior Airman Gage Duvall (center), 2nd Air Support
Operations Squadron joint terminal attack controllers, interact with Belgian JTACs during exer-
cise Serpentex 16 March 7 in Corsica, France.
Master Bombardier Mathiew Marcoux-Desrochers, a joint terminal attack controller from the Tech. Sgt. Jeremy Rarang, 2nd Air Support Operations Squadron joint terminal attack controller,
Yankee Battery of the 2nd Regiment, Royal Canadian Horse Artillery, verifies coordinates on a interacts with fellow JTACs from the Royal Canadian Horse Artillery during exercise Serpentex 16
map as part of training during exercise Serpentex 16 March 7 in Corsica, France. March 7 in Corsica, France.
March 18, 2016 Kaiserslautern American Page 7
1st CBCS returns home from Israel, Juniper Cobra 16
commentary, from Page 2
expected, but due to the change to a static closeout date for
EPRs, I received another one in six months. This allowed me
to test for staff sergeant again in 2015. Spoiler alert: I made
it again.
Making staff sergeant wasn’t the highlight of 2015 for me.
I met a wonderful woman at the end of 2014, who I made my
wife and with whom I now have a beautiful daughter. I kept
pushing forward. I got involved with my community again,
and I took steps to start working toward my master’s degree.
I kept moving forward in work as well. I became a self-aid
and buddy care instructor. I also became a resilience training
assistant, which eventually led to me being selected for the
MRT course.
During the MRT course, I heard many people share inti-
mate moments in their lives, which they had to overcome.
One particular story hit close as another NCO shared how he
had been demoted.
I had been asked to share my story. Again, some people
saw me as the epitome of resilience, but I just couldn’t find it
in myself to do it. I didn’t know why until I heard him tell his
Courtesy photo
story in conjunction with the lesson we were learning.
Airmen from the 1st Combat Communications Squadron and 52nd CBCS and Soldiers from the 44th Expeditionary
I had never really accepted it and moved on. I had never
Signals Battalion work together to support U.S. European Command exercise Juniper Cobra 16 March 3 in Israel.
Juniper Cobra uses ballistic-missile defense computer simulations to train U.S. and Israeli service members while even told my family back home because I didn’t want to dis-
reinforcing a strong military relationship. appoint them. Almost two years had passed, and I had kept it
away from them.
by Senior Airman Jonathan Stefanko er. “This collaboration reflects a commitment to So, that’s what I did, and they responded with, “Everything
86th Airlift Wing Public Affairs protecting civilian lives, as well as a deep appre- happens for a reason. … Look at you now,” “We’re still proud
ciation for the Israel Defense Forces, Israel Air of you,” and “We love you.”
Approximately 25 Airmen from the 1st Force and the Aerial Defense System.” Now, I don’t know if I’ll share this story often. I still don’t
Combat Communications Squadron left Israel Along with exercising their cyber capabili- think it’s indicative of who I am. I still don’t think I’m an
March 8 after providing network support that ties, the 1st CBCS Airmen also networked with epitome of resilience, but I have some resilient qualities for
ensured the success of Juniper Cobra 16. their Israeli counterparts in hopes to build part- sure. What I do know is I’m lucky to have the support I do,
Juniper Cobra 16 is a combined ballistic- nerships as well as improve current processes. and I’m lucky to be an MRT because now I get to teach others
missile defense exercise held every two years “At first, everyone stayed within their respec- how to make it through those difficult situations.
by the U.S. European Command and Israeli tive work areas, but not long after everyone
Defense Forces. This year was the eighth in a started to open up and realize that the other units
series of biennial exercises of the two militaries could make each other’s lives much easier, if
since 2001. we work together,” Garcia said. “The exercise
Airmen from the 1st CBCS established net- enabled us to see how the Israelis operate so
works as well as installed the infrastructure that we can identify areas for improvement
necessary to enable the ballistic-missile defense and potentially develop best practices for both
fight. countries.”
“We had to engineer an automatic connec- Though the exercise lasted from Feb. 21 to
tivity fail-over capability between not only the March 4, Ramstein Airmen were in Israel from
Air Force and Army networks but the Israel Jan. 9 to March 8 to provide additional cyber
Defense Forces as well,” said 1st Lt. Jonathan support for the exercise.
Garcia, 1st CBCS airfield systems flight com- “The 1st CBCS has two teams dedicated to
mander. “It’s awesome to work alongside so our mission at all times, one training while the
many different people and see how they con- other is standing by to deploy,” Garcia said.
tribute to the mission.” “We practice like we fight and are confident
Though the role for Airmen was specific to we’re ready to face any wrenches thrown at us.”
ensuring network stability, each day came with Throughout the exercise, both nations’ ser-
new challenges for them to overcome. vice members were tested on a variety of
“Our job was as simple as running and termi- computer-assisted simulations ranging from
nating Ethernet cables to as difficult as develop- ballistic-missile defense, crisis re-supply, for-
ing network architecture, which was required to eign-disaster response and foreign-humanitari-
support our capabilities,” Garcia said. “Every an assistance, and the skills gained through the
challenge we faced was a learning experience. trials faced will strengthen the militaries’ capa-
We even worked alongside the U.S. Army, bilities and established friendships.
which garnered its own benefits to our growth “To the entire 1,700 total force Soldiers,
as Airmen.” Sailors, Airmen and Marines, civilians and
During the exercise, more than 1,700 U.S. ser- contractors: Thank you for your selfless work
vice members, civilians and contractors worked and an incredible job well done,” said Lt.
with the Israel Defense Forces to address com- Gen. Timothy Ray, 3rd Air Force and 17th
puter-simulated challenges that may occur in Expeditionary Air Force commander. “I’m very
real-world operations. proud to be a part of this team. Thank you to
“This exercise is a significant milestone in the planners and white cell who ran the exer-
the strategic relationship between the two coun- cise and to our gracious Israeli hosts. The U.S.
tries, a security alliance unmatched by any other remains fully committed to the security of Israel
country in the world,” said Brig. Gen. Zvika and ready, tomorrow, next month or in Juniper
Halmovich, Aerial Defense Division command- Cobra 18.”
Page 8 Kaiserslautern American March 18, 2016
NCO academy begins first European ILE
(think and act) critically in these complex and
ambiguous environments.”
ILE is designed to develop leadership, interper-
sonal communication, and many other concepts
and tools for leaders through guided group dis-
cussions, assignments and speeches. ILE is also
intended to complement the Course 15 material.
“We have a stellar group of junior noncom-
missioned officers in (U.S. Air Forces in Europe
and Air Forces Africa) performing significant Air
Force missions,” Dennis said. “We are honored
and humbled for the opportunity to prepare them to
lead and manage in these ambiguous and complex
environments they operate in daily. We do not take
this responsibility lightly because the stakes are
high once they return to their organizations.”
To get ready for their students, NCOA instruc-
tors collaborated for months with the Thomas N.
Barnes Center for Enlisted Education on Maxwell-
Gunter Air Force Base, Alabama, to ensure both
they and their lesson plans were ready for the new
students.
Airmen review course material during the first interactive leadership course in Europe March 3 on Kapaun. The Kisling NCO “At the center, the instructors where highly moti-
Academy hosted the class designed to exercise skills learned during the online distance-learning platform, Course 15. vated, and they got me excited about the course,”
Johnson said. “Now I am trying to help get these
Story and photo by an Airman’s professional military education and is Airmen to the next level.”
Staff Sgt. Armando Schwier-Morales completed by eligible candidates after they finish Tech. Sgt. Christopher Johnson, Kisling NCOA
86th Airlift Wing Public Affairs the online distance-learning platform, Course 15. instructor, visited the Barnes Center and guided his
“The Intermediate Leadership Experience course fellow instructors upon returning.
The Kisling NCO Academy kicked off the first goals say it all,” said Chief Master Sgt. Tamar Professional military education is constantly
interactive leadership course in Europe March 3 Dennis, Kisling NCOA commandant. “We develop changing to develop Airmen. According to Johnson,
on Kapaun. adaptable NCOs for current and future leadership Kisling is proud to be a pioneer and help educate
Intermediate Leadership Experience is part of and management challenges in order to operate more Airmen to be the best leaders they can be.
B-52s join French forces for close air support exercise
by Senior Airman operations. “It gives them a fighters to support JTACs from
Joseph Raatz chance to train and get smart several NATO nations as well
20th Expeditionary Bomb on what they have to do and as those from Jordan and Saudi
Squadron Public Affairs what their capabilities are, so Arabia, who are also partici-
later on down the road when it pating this year. Training with
MORÓN AIR BASE, counts, they can perform effec- a wide range of mission part-
Spain — U.S. Air Force B-52 tively and efficiently.” ners ensures a more compre-
Stratofortresses joined French Serpentex differs from other hensive learning experience,
aircraft and ground troops joint military exercises in the Fortin explained.
from a dozen nations to kick region, as it concentrates solely “Working alongside our
off a close air support exercise on close air support. This criti- coalition partners out there
March 7 in the Mediterranean. cal capability puts the power will be a great experience for
Serpentex, an annual of precise, concentrated air- everybody,” Fortin said. “Most
French-led exercise, involves strikes in the hands of troops of them haven’t worked with Photo courtesy of the U.S. Air Force
A French Mirage 2000 flies off the wing of a U.S. Air Force B-52 Stratofortress
joint-terminal attack control- on the ground, who can call bombers for these types of
March 1 in the skies over northern France. Several B-52s participated in
lers from 12 partner countries. these strikes in to defend them- missions before. We have a
French-led close air support exercise Serpentex for the first time this year, join-
Operating on the French island selves against enemy attacks or longer duration and a lot wider ing forces from a dozen nations to train and develop better tactics, techniques
of Corsica, these JTACs work to eliminate vital targets with turn radius than some of the and procedures.
together to practice properly lethal accuracy. fighters, so they’re going to
identifying targets and using This is the first year B-52s have to find a new pacing for tions. The bombers will partic- strong, credible bomber force
that data to call in air strikes were invited to participate in calling us in for close air sup- ipate in both exercises simul- that enhances the security and
from nearby French and the exercise, as the role of CAS port. But I promise that bomb- taneously for a short time as stability of our allies and part-
American aircraft. has traditionally been filled by er CAS is worth the wait.” Cold Response winds down. ners,” said Lt. Col. Dennis
“Serpentex is a great oppor- various fighter platforms. The The B-52s involved in Temporarily stationing the air- Cummings, 20th Expeditionary
tunity to have all the JTACs Stratofortress is well-suited for Serpentex also participated craft in Europe allowed for Bomb Squadron commander.
from coalition nations in this application however, as it in the Norwegian-led Cold more sorties, shorter flight “Our ability to smoothly and
one place, training together can loiter for extended periods Response 16, a large-scale times, less fuel burned and effectively conduct these mul-
to increase interoperability and carries a wider range of NATO military training exer- more training hours. tinational missions is heavily
and work on communication munitions than any other air- cise in the Trondelag region “The ability to train bomb- indebted to the hospitality of
skills,” said Maj. Sarah Fortin, craft in the U.S. inventory. of Norway involving 16,000 er aircrews in different geo- Spain and fantastic support we
20th Expeditionary Bomb During the exercise, the troops and comprising air, graphic combatant commands are receiving from U.S. Air
Squadron assistant director of B-52s will join with French ground and maritime opera- is essential to maintaining a Forces Europe.”
March 18, 2016 Kaiserslautern American Page 9
Page 10 Kaiserslautern American March 18, 2016
From mud to sun, weather covers all
Story and photo by Staff Sgt. Timothy Moore weather forecasts for our pilots,” Hale said. “We
86th Airlift Wing Public Affairs receive (a) pilot-to-metro-service call, which is a
phone line patch from an airborne pilot who needs
Snow plows are prepared to clear an airfield, a quick and relevant weather information.”
base is issued a delayed reporting notification, and According to Hale, a pilot-to-metro-service call
the running portion of a physical fitness assessment shouldn’t last more than one to two minutes. Thus,
is moved inside. the weather forecaster has to be certified to be in the
While these events may seem unrelated, they all section and capable of accessing all the information
have one thing in common: a weather forecast played required to inform the pilot of how the weather is
a part in the decision. expected to behave on their route.
Weather is something many people may not con- “The most rewarding part for me is working in
sciously think about until it affects their routine, Senior Airman Amanda Diaz (left) and Airman 1st Class Aaron that section,” Hale said. “I can actually see the end
but for the Airmen at the 21st Operational Weather Wolak, both 21st Operational Weather Squadron weather result of what I’m supporting. I write forecasts every
forecasters, monitor the weather patterns of northern Europe
Squadron, weather is at the front of their minds. day, but I have no idea what customer is using them.
Feb. 22, on Kapaun. The mission of the 21st OWS is to provide
“We provide timely, accurate and relevant weath- I know everyone is using them, but I don’t know
timely and accurate forecast products to customers across the
er intelligence to make sure the U.S. European areas of responsibility of U.S. European Command and U.S. for what purpose. When I’m giving a pilot weather
Command and U.S. Africa Command missions are Africa Command. information directly, I get to see how that impacts
met,” said 2nd Lt. Daniel Bazemore, 21st OWS the mission.”
weather officer. flight to get a visual confirmation of what they are Similarly, many people are probably not aware that
The 21st OWS provides forecasts, weather adviso- forecasting. they are using the products from the 21st OWS, as
ries and resource protection warnings for Air Force, However, there are some monitored areas where they don’t just provide weather forecasts for flying
Army and Navy facilities within U.S. European there is no local weather flight to provide responses missions. The weather forecasters produce approxi-
Command and U.S. Africa Command. on their weather forecasts. In instances such as these, mately three products a day for the 11 areas they
The 21st OWS Airmen work with their counter- the 21st OWS relies on satellite imaging or observa- monitor around the clock.
parts throughout both commands’ areas of respon- tions from a mechanical tool or their customers. “We touch entire installations,” Bazemore said.
sibility to ensure the products are as accurate as “In regions where radar is sparse, we are highly “Weather affects personnel, maintenance or whatever
possible. dependent upon observations,” Bazemore said. “That it might be. We get the reports to the decision makers
“We have weather flights that we support all comes from civilian observations or our observation- so they make the appropriate call.”
throughout those AORs,” said Staff Sgt. James Hale, al equipment. That’s the great thing about satellite Whether it is pulling maintainers off the flight line
21st OWS weather forecaster. “Any mission that observation. Even if we don’t have a surface obser- because of the heat index, redirecting a mission to
takes off in either of those AORs has to get weather vation, we do have an image on that area from our another location because of inclement weather, or
information from us before they can take off.” eye in the sky.” informing the populace the roads are safe to drive on,
To provide accurate data, the 21st OWS Airmen Feedback on the quality of their forecasts isn’t the decision was likely made based on a product from
will contact a weather flight in the area for which the only time weather forecasters speak with their a weather forecaster.
they are making a weather forecast. After monitor- customers. Just as the weather they monitor does, the 21st
ing weather patterns, they contact a local weather “In the flight-weather briefing section, we provide OWS Airmen affect everyone under their scope.
Retired three-star admiral shares disaster relief experiences with 7th MSC
by Lt. Col. Jefferson Wolfe Pakistan, to coordinate U.S. With disasters of this mag-
7th Mission Support military assistance during a nitude, it is essential to put
Command Public Affairs devastating earthquake. aside personal and organiza-
The four-minute event reg- tional ego and work to get the
A retired vice admiral istered a magnitude of 7.6, dis- job done, LeFever said. The
with extensive experience in placed 3.5 million people, and trust that relationships bring
humanitarian assistance and killed nearly 75,000 in Pakistan is essential to getting the job
disaster relief operations vis- and India, LeFever said. done.
ited the 7th Mission Support In 2010, as the senior “I tell everybody that my
Command March 11. defense representative at the priority was relationships, rela-
Retired Navy Vice Adm. U.S. Embassy in Islamabad, Photo by Sgt. 1st Class Matthew Chlosta tionships, relationships, in that
Retired Navy Vice Adm. Michael LeFever receives a 7th Mission Support
Michael A. LeFever will be LeFever led the U.S. military order,” LeFever said.
Command brief from 7th MSC senior leaders, including James Otto, 7th MSC
the senior mentor during the response to the catastrophic A successful response builds
command executive officer, March 4 during his visit to 7th MSC headquarters.
7th MSC’s upcoming annual flooding of the Indus River, LeFever also shared his experience in humanitarian assistance and disaster credibility and deepens person-
training exercise, Anakonda which submerged one-fifth response and partnership development. al relationships, LeFever said.
Response, in April. The exer- of the country, damaged or It also demonstrates good will
cise simulates a U.S. response destroyed 1.2 million homes, “It wasn’t easy, but he was able tions based on his past experi- and commitment and shows
to a catastrophic flooding event. and affected 17 million people. to make it work.” ence,” Oliver said. strategic impact with U.S.
“I’m looking forward to get- While conducting these As senior mentor, LeFever During LeFever’s visit, the enablers.
ting to know you and work- disaster responses, LeFever will be working directly with 7th MSC staff briefed him Despite the challenges,
ing with you on this exercise,” had to come up with innova- Brig. Gen. Arlan DeBlieck, about the command and the LeFever lists the HA-DR
LeFever told the Soldiers and tive solutions with no prec- 7th MSC commanding general, upcoming exercise. LeFever efforts as his career highlight.
civilians of the 7th MSC during edent, said Command Sgt. Maj. but the whole command will also took time to speak to the Being personally responsi-
a town hall-style discussion. James Murrin, 7th MSC senior benefit from his experience, Soldiers and civilians about his ble for helping so many people
LeFever was in charge of the enlisted leader. said Lt. Col. Lance Oliver, the experiences in Pakistan. is an incredibly powerful expe-
U.S. military’s response to two “He’s got the experience exercise planner. “The key to a humanitarian rience, LeFever said.
natural disasters in Pakistan. when it comes to doctrine but “He will help us inject operation is trying to get the “Once you do this mission,
In 2005 and 2006, LeFever completely understands that some realism into the CPX population back to normalcy as it gets in your blood,” LeFever
was assigned as commander of doctrine is just a guide, not a (Command Post Exercise) sce- quickly as you can,” LeFever added. “There’s nothing like
the Disaster Assistance Center, limiting factor,” Murrin said. nario and correct our assump- said. it.”