Ramstein Airmen complete training in Israel

48 Pages·2009·12.73 MB·English

December 18, 2009 HAVE YOU READ YOUR KA TODAY? Volume 33, number 50
18th MP Bde. earns
marksmanship badge
by Cpl. Adrienne Killingsworth
18th Military Police Brigade Public Affairs
O
f the many perks that come with being
stationed in Germany – the travel-
ling, the schnitzel and, of course, the
beer – the one thing that many Soldiers seem
most eager to accomplish during their tour here
is earning themselves a Schützenschnur, the
German marksmanship badge.
For a select group of “Roughnecks” from the
Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 18th
Military Police Brigade, their chance to prove
themselves on a German range came Dec. 3
at German Feldjäger Battalion 251’s range in
Mainz, Germany.
The American MP company has maintained
a strong partnership with the German battalion
over the years, and the joint effort of participat- Photo by Tech. Sgt. Michael Voss
ing in one another’s ceremonies and events has
given countless Soldiers the opportunity to set
their sights on the coveted badge. It is as com-
mon a sight to fi nd German Feldjägers at the
brigade’s ranges trying to earn American marks- Ramstein Offi cers’ Spouses Club member Carol Ann Stenetz sorts baking dishes fi lled with cookies Dec. 10 destined for single
servicemembers living in the dormitories on Vogelweh and Ramstein. The ROSC, together with the Kaiserslautern Spouses
manship badges as well as it is to fi nd Americans
Association and the Ramstein Enlisted Spouses Association, collected more than 12,000 cookies to give to the more than 11,000
Airmen who live in the dorms on base.
See MARKSMANSHIP, Page 3
Ramstein Airmen complete training in Israel
Story and photos by Members from Ramstein par-
Airman 1st Class ticipated in the exercise Dec. 1
Alexandria Mosness through 10 to accomplish vari-
86th Airlift Wing Public Affairs ous training requirements for the
C-130J Super Hercules which are Master Sgt. Greg
Everett, 37th Airlift
NEVATIM AIR FORCE not allowed in Germany because
Squadron loadmas-
BASE, Israel — It’s not every of country regulations. ter, briefs the Israeli
day you see an American fl ag “Training is hard to achieve in Air Force loadmaster
fl ying next to the Israeli fl ag, but Germany because of the air space on the new C-130J
Super Hercules
during a 10-day training and exer- restrictions,” said Capt. Sarah
aircraft Dec. 9 on
cise mission here, it was common Santoro, 37th Airlift Squadron Nevatim Air Base,
to see Airmen walking around mission commander for the Israel Israel. The Israeli
with not only the American fl ag off-station training. “Some of the Army had observers
on every fl ight during
on their shoulder but also the
the 10-day training
Israeli national fl ag. See TRAINING, Page 5 exercise.
This is the last edition
S
S E
of the KA for this year! E L
R Y S
U T T
T S R
Make sure to pick up the fi rst A E O
E F P
copy of the KA in the new year F LI S
on Jan. 8! Tour for Troops 2009 rocks Origins of the Christmas Offi cials emphasize fi tness
Ramstein, Page 7 tree, Page 19 responsibility, Page 22
Page 2 Kaiserslautern American December 18, 2009
Looking back while moving forward
by Brig. Gen. Mark Dillon Command and U.S. Army Garrison Kaiserslautern, Team Ramstein
86th Airlift Wing and KMC commander supported more than 30,000 flights, 280,000 passengers and 131,000
tons of cargo. Plus, we safely completed the 100,000th patient
T
eam Ramstein, your service continues to amaze this movement between the Contingency Aeromedical Staging Facility
Airman. The command chief and I witnessed your leader- and Landstuhl Regional Medical Center.
ship first hand these past two weeks during our operational Our Team Ramstein wings, in collaboration with our many
readiness exercise. tenant organizations and host nation partners, epitomize the team-
From mobility processing to learning how to survive and oper- work required to support national interests throughout the world.
ate in a hazardous environment, we came together to start preparing Across the KMC, active-duty, Reserve, civilian and host nation
for our September 2010 operational readiness inspection. And even Airmen and Soldiers ensure our weapons and personnel are postured
more impressive was the fact you exercised while still accomplishing to provide full-spectrum air mobility capability to the war fighter
our daily “fly, fight, and win” mission. as well as world class base services and quality of life to the entire
What I’m trying to say is you remain incredibly busy. As 2009 KMC.
comes to a close, it is time to look back on how much you’ve But while you prepare inside the KMC, your impact extends far
accomplished – and 2009 can be characterized by generosity, service beyond the border of Germany. From Israel to Bosnia, Africa to
and teamwork. Serbia, our warriors partnered during numerous exercises, training
Our military family’s generosity is a true force multiplier. From the scenarios and real-world events to create lasting relationships with
family members of our deployed Airmen and Soldiers making daily our fellow services, coalition forces and communities around the
sacrifices in support of their war fighters to our amazing volunteers globe.
that form the backbone of our community events, we are blessed. This teamwork, service and generosity were, without a doubt,
This is truly evident from events like our annual Welfare Bazaar several of the key factors for our recent receipt of the Air Force
to your generous contributions to the annual Combined Federal Outstanding Unit Award.
Campaign. The bottom line is, the entire KMC benefits because of It is certainly a great time to be an Airman – not only here at
your generosity. Ramstein, but also in today’s Air Force. I could not be more proud
This year, Team Ramstein’s dedicated service continued to deliver of the many tasks you and your families accomplished throughout
maximum combat capability to the war fighter – we flew more than this last year.
14,583 hours and transported more than 2,500 tons of cargo and We have much to be thankful for as we close out 2009, and the
6,500 passengers. Dillon family would like to wish the entire KMC family a safe and
Combined with our brothers and sisters in the 521st Air Mobility restful holiday season. Thanks to you and your families for serving
Operations Wing, the U.S. Army’s 21st Theater Sustainment and I look forward to seeing you around the KMC.
y
r Resolve this New Year’s to save energy
a
t by James E. Fitzpatrick packets of mustard, ketchup and Taco Bell the various appliances in your office space.
n 86th Civil Engineer Group hot sauce, a jar of mayonnaise, a can of V8, Take an inventory of the number of refrig-
a yogurt and three bottles of beer with a born erators, microwaves, transformers, coffee
e Parting is such sweet sorrow – even with on date of March 18, 2005. makers, fans, toasters and other miscella-
my office refrigerator. Apparently, these three bottles were neous appliances you have in the building.
m
Parting with my fridge is sorrowful because orphaned back in 2005 and have been hand- Common sense will tell you if you have
it is so convenient to have around, but part- me-downs ever since. I sort of hate to break excess.
m ing with it is also pleasurable because it is an the hand-me-down tradition, but it’s time Conserving energy saves money and pro-
extravagance I don’t need. to part with my office fridge, even at the tects the environment. And if you need assis-
We already have an office refrigerator expense of these very mature drinks. tance on the turn-in procedures for govern-
o
near our break room that has plenty of space As the new year approaches, and you ment owned appliances, call Raul Visaya,
for my needs. But it didn’t occur to me how take stock of your surroundings and make Air Force energy manager on Ramstein,
C
much of an extravagance my office fridge New Year’s resolutions, consider resolving to Vogelweh and Sembach at 480-3723.
was until I took stock of its contents: various reduce the amount of energy that is spent on Happy Holidays from the 86th CEG!
including insert or supplements, does not constitute Deadlines: AdvantiPro
endorsement by the DOD, the Department of the Air Force
•News, feature, school articles and photos – noon Thursday for
or the AdvantiPro GmbH of the products or the services Editor Nicole Pothier
the following week’s edition
advertised.
•Sports articles and photos – noon Monday for that same Sales Team Nicole Baulch
The Kaiserslautern American is published by Everything advertised in this publication shall be
week’s edition Armand Derderian
AdvantiPro GmbH, Kaiserslautern, Germany, a private made available for purchase, use or patronage without
firm in no way connected with the Department of the regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, •Free (space available) Classifieds – noon Tuesday for that Karin Flick
Air Force or the Department of the Army, under exclusive marital status, physical handicap, political affiliation or same week’s KA Display Ads Ilknur Bass
contract with the 86th Airlift Wing. any other non merit factor of the purchaser, user or AdvantiPro staff encourages reader comments. Send
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Contents of the KA are not necessarily the official view Air Force and Army agencies, KMC military units and
Classified Ads Sabrina Braun
of, or endorsed by, the U.S. government, Department of geographically separated units. To place a classified advertisement, call AdvantiPro
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The appearance of advertising in this publication, submitted material. 0631-3033-5536 or visit www.kaiserslauternamerican.com. Quality Control Corinna Emser
December 18, 2009 Kaiserslautern American Page 3
MARKSMANSHIP, from Page 1
on a German range.
The Schützenschnur is earned by qualifying on a series
of German weapons at either a gold, silver or bronze
level. The lowest qualification earned on any given
weapon serves as the level that the badge is awarded. For
a Soldier to qualify as an expert, he must qualify at the
gold level on every weapon.
Depending on the range that the Soldiers attend, they
may fire various combinations of the G36 rifle, P8 pistol
and the MG3 machine gun. The Soldiers of the HHC
were tested on two pistol ranges and one rifle range.
After a full day of firing, the Soldiers headed back
to the Feldjäger battalion’s headquarters for a barbecue
put on by their hosts and a chance to socialize with their
German counterparts.
Overall, the event provided both units with a chance
to maintain their partnership and experience the similari-
ties and differences between the Feldjägers and military
Photo courtesy of the U.S. Army police.
Sgt. Kevin Auvil, a food service specialist with the 15th Engineer Battalion, 18th Engineer Brigade, is one of four As the Soldiers were handed their badges by German
Soldier chefs from the 21st Theater Sustainment Command selected to compete alongside the best military culinary
Capt. Maik Biel, commander of the Feldjäger Battalion
professionals from all over the world at the 34th Annual Culinary Arts Competition scheduled for March 12 to 13
251, both sides promised to meet again soon and
at Fort Lee, Va.
welcomed one another to future ranges – ensuring that
21st TSC’s top cooks the tradition will continue and allowing more MPs to go
for the gold.
“
to take on world’s best
The American MP company has
maintained a strong partnership with the
German battalion over the years, and the joint effort of
by Frank Sanchez III Transportation Battalion,
21st TSC Public Affairs 18th Military Police participating in one another’s ceremonies and events
Brigade in Mannheim. has given countless Soldiers the opportunity to set their
Four Soldier chefs The team will prepare
sights on the coveted badge.
from the 21st Theater by traveling to Virginia
Sustainment Command in February to begin
are sharpening their training for 30 days.
knives and their cooking “I want these Soldiers
skills to compete along- to walk away with more
side the best military knowledge than they
culinary professionals came with. Unity, work-
from all over the world at ing together and being
the 34th annual Culinary satisfied with what they
Arts Competition sched- have done is all I can
uled for March 12 to 13 ask,” said Sgt. 1st Class
at Fort Lee, Va. Leonardo Alvarez, chief
The four Army cooks Photo by 1st Sgt. Daniel C. Canez food operations sergeant
were selected from more Sgt. Joseph Dinuzzo, a food service special- for the 21st TSC and the
ist with Forward Support Company, 54th
than 150 food service USAREUR culinary arts
Engineer Battalion, 18th Engineer Brigade,
professionals to represent team manager. “Winning
21st Theater Sustainment Command, pre-
the 21st TSC. These four pares a meal during the U.S. Army Europe is great, but coming
Soldiers will be com- Culinary Arts Competition Nov. 19 in together as a team is
Grafenwöhr, Germany.
bining talents with eight more important.”
other food service specialists from across The culinary arts competition features
Europe to make up the 12-member culinary food service professionals from the Army,
arts team of U.S. Army Europe. The 21st Marine Corps, Navy, Air Force and Coast
TSC makes up a third of the team and will Guard. The competition will feature more
play a vital role in team USAREUR’s quest than 40 categories on everything from culi-
to win the competition’s centerpiece event, nary knowledge to ice art.
“Installation of the Year.” The Soldiers representing the 21st TSC on
“My goal for this competition is try- the USAREUR culinary arts team are Sgt.
ing to win gold in five different events, Joseph Dinuzzo, 54th Engineer Battalion,
but the biggest goal is for us to bring Bamberg; Sgt. Kevin Auvil, 15th Engineer
home the installation of the year. That is Battalion, Schweinfurt; Pfc. Matthew
what we are all gunning for,” said Pfc. Hendricks, 28th Transportation Battalion,
Matthew Hendricks, USAREUR junior Mannheim; and Pfc. William Krull, 28th
chef of the year, who is assigned to the 28th Transportation Battalion, Mannheim.
Page 4 Kaiserslautern American December 18, 2009
Compiled by the 569th USFPS
weekend
AADD
statistics
Dec. 11 – 20 volunteers, 20 lives saved
Dec. 7
5:01 p.m.: A Soldier was
8:02 a.m.: An Army civilian reported a major apprehended for failure Dec. 12 – 14 volunteers, 29 lives saved
traffi c accident. While traveling on the Autobahn, to obey a lawful order on Kapaun.
a vehicle in front of him stopped suddenly Investigation revealed he was given
Dec. 11
because of traffi c. Due to inattentive driving, the an order not to make contact with his spouse.
Army civilian hit the car in front of him. 5:01 a.m.: An Airman was apprehended for
Dec. 9
9:30 a.m.: An Airman reported a theft of driving under the infl uence in Kaiserslautern.
personal property at the Christmas market in 11:54 a.m.: An Air Force NCO reported a theft 7:42 a.m.: An Airman was apprehended
downtown Kaiserslautern. Investigation revealed of personal property in Weilerbach. The stolen for trespassing and failure to obey a lawful
an unknown person cut her purse and stole a items were a vehicle’s registration and a gas order. Investigation revealed the male Airman
wallet, a USAREUR license, a government card. was attempting entry into a female Airman’s
license and money. 7:42 p.m.: An Airman reported a major traffi c residence. The female Airman asked the male
5:55 p.m.: An Airman reported a major traffi c accident in Ramstein-Miesenbach. The Airman Airman to leave. The male Airman did not leave
accident with injuries. The Airman was driving was unable to see on-coming traffi c due to cars and was apprehended when Polizei arrived on
inattentively and drove into a ditch. The vehicle being parked on the side of the road and struck a scene.
rolled six times on a road near Martinshohe. The vehicle traveling toward him. 10:30 p.m.: A Soldier reported an assault in
Airman sustained injuries and the vehicle had to Kaiserslautern. Investigation revealed two local
Dec. 10
be towed. nationals approached her and spoke German to
10:15 a.m.: An Army dependent was advised her. The Soldier stated she didn’t understand what
Dec. 8
of his rights for driving a vehicle without a the local nationals were saying. The local nation-
7:40 a.m.: An Air Force SNCO reported a major USAREUR license. als brandished a knife and when the Soldier saw
traffi c accident near Jettenbach. The Airman was 11:12 a.m.: An Airman reported a theft of the knife she reached for it in defense. The local
unable to maintain control of her vehicle and personal property on Kapaun. Investigation nationals fl ed and left the Soldier with a cut to
struck a ditch. The vehicle sustained disabling revealed the Airman left his window unsecured the hand.
damage and had to be towed. and a backpack, an iPod, a bottle of prescription
Dec. 12
medicine, clothing and money were
Missing your family while in Germany? taken. 3:17 a.m.: An Army dependent was appre-
5:48 p.m.: A Soldier was apprehend- hended on Vogelweh Family Housing for driving
We want to be your family while in Germany!
ed for failure to obey a lawful order under the infl uence. Investigation revealed the
1000 Protestant Worship Service on Kapaun. Investigation revealed the dependant had a BrAC of 1.57.
at Daenner Community Chapel Soldier allowed a person who was 3:18 p.m.: An Army Soldier was apprehended
For information call USAG-K DSN 493-4098 or 0631 3406 4098 not a USAREUR licensed holder to on Vogelweh Family Housing for an assault on
Located behind the post offi ce on Daenner Kaserne operate his vehicle. his wife.
American’s needed
Kapaun POV Inspection Station will be open and October. Videos can be downloaded from
The Ramstein-Miesenbach carnival associ- from 7 to 11 a.m. Dec. 31. The station will be www1.dmasa.dma.mil/hometown/webpages/
ation Bruchkatze, which sponsors the biggest closed Dec. 24 and 25 and Jan. 1. For ques- holidaygreetings.htm.
Fasching parade in the Westpfalz on Feb. 16, tions, call 489-6400 or 0631-536-6400.
HHD command opportunity
is looking for American participants. Walking • The Ramstein Thrift Shop will be closed
groups, bands and individuals dressed in from Monday to Jan. 1 for the holiday break. The Headquarters, Headquarters
funny costumes as well as fl oats can take The shop will reopen for normal business Detachment, U.S. Army Garrison Kaisers-
part. To register by Feb. 1, call the 86th Airlift hours on Jan. 4. The shop is located in Bldg. lautern commander position becomes avail-
Wing Host Nation Offi ce at 480-2094. 1200 adjacent to the Ramstein Commissary. able March 12. Deadline for submissions is
For more information, visit www.resa-rab. Jan. 4. Interviews of prospective command-
Closures
com/thriftshop.htm. ers will begin Jan. 5. For more details, call
e • The Furnishings Management Offi ce on Capt. John Evans at 493-4373 or e-mail
Short story competition
Einsiedlerhof will close at 11 a.m. Wednesday [email protected].
t for an organizational function. Offi ces on The Air Force Services Agency conducts a
Safety day appointments
o Ramstein and Vogelweh will be closed the short story competition until Feb. 14 as part
whole day. of the Year of the Air Force Family. This is Routine patient appointments and walk-in
• The Furnishings Management offi ces on an opportunity for Airmen to express what appointments will not be scheduled today
N
Einsiedlerhof, Ramstein and Vogelweh will living the Air Force life means to them, their at Landstuhl Regional Medical Center dur-
be closed Thursday and Dec. 31. family and their friends. The subject of the ing the LRMC Safety Stand-Down Day.
• All Service Credit Union branch offi ces short story is “The Air Force is a great place Emergency care will remain available.
e will be open from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Thursday to live, work and play.” Entries must be 300
Pulaski Mailroom Saturday hours
and Dec. 31. All offi ces will be closed words or less. For details and to enter, visit
k Dec. 25 and Jan. 1 in observance of the www.myairforcelife.com. U.S. Army Garrison Kaiserslautern’s
holidays. Pulaski Mailroom is open from noon to
Holiday greetings posted
a • The KMC Housing Offi ce will be closed 3 p.m. Saturdays until Jan. 2. The mailroom is
Dec. 24 and 25 for Christmas and Jan. 1 for The Joint Hometown News Service has located in Bldg. 3002 on Pulaski Barracks.
T
New Year’s. started posting holiday greetings videos that For details, call 493-4208 or 0631-3406-
• The 86th Vehicle Readiness Squadron were taped throughout Europe in September 4208.
December 18, 2009 Kaiserslautern American Page 5
CRG provides nonstop support for off-station training
by Airman 1st Class Alexandria Mosness ships and support for flying operations remains Gage recognized the ties the Air Force is building
86th Airlift Wing Public Affairs the same,” the major said. with Israel.
Most members for the mission arrived the day “This is an incredible opportunity to exercise
NEVATIM AIR FORCE BASE, Israel — it began, but the 435th CRG were one of the few with this host nation and further develop our
“Nonstop, no-off position” is a common phrase who arrived days earlier to make sure everything relationship for future training,” he said.
used to describe the 435th Contingency Response went smoothly for arriving Airmen. Putting in long hours each day, the dedication
Group, and these words held true as the group “The 435th CRG is very essential to us here of the 435th CRG shows through their actions.
participated in a 10-day training and exercise in Israel because it allows us to focus on our “Even our shortest days are longer than most
mission here. mission – flying,” said Maj. Bob May, 37th people work,” Sergeant Chambers said. “My
The CRG was one of numerous Ramstein units AS exercise planner. “They do it all – from shortest day was 13 hours, and I’ve worked days
that participated in the exercise from Dec. 1 to the deployment phase where they will come much longer than that.”
10 to help provide the 37th AS additional train- out to the site to make sure everything goes as Working such long shifts together might be
ing and qualification opportunities on the C-130J planned, to monitoring personnel, taking care of hard for some, but the 435th CRG makes it work
Super Hercules aircraft. accountability and getting out daily reports to out well.
“The CRG members are a core function for leadership. The CRG has helped tremendously “We have a great team,” Sergeant Chambers
daily operations and coordination for logistics here because whatever you need, they have it.” said. “We do work long hours, but you can bet
support,” said Maj. Leo Gage, 435th Air Mobility Even though the training concentrated mostly the squadron commander is out there on the
Squadron director of operations. “Our Airmen on the flying mission, the 435th CRG was still flightline driving the forklift. From the highest
have the responsibility to establish airfield opera- able to gain much experience from the exercise. to the lowest ranking individual, everyone
tions and assess the capabilities available for air- “It is still an opportunity to see how works as a team to get what needs to be done
field operations at austere locations.” compatible and in sync the CRG is to daily finished.”
While this is the second time the training has operations,” Major Gage said. But being “finished” is always a different
taken place in Israel, it was a first for the 37th AS Along with performing their mission, members definition for the CRG. Despite the end of the
and 435th CRG. of the CRG also value their jobs for allowing exercise here in Israel, it marks the beginning of
The CRG Airmen, formerly part of the 86th them to experience the world. more training for the CRG.
AW along with the 37th AS, recently became a “The travel is the best part of my job,” “After this mission, we are transitioning to
part of one of the Air Force’s newest wings – the said Staff Sgt. Lee Chambers, 435th AMS the Operational Readiness Exercise the day after
435th AGOW, headquartered at Ramstein. contingency C2 controller. we return,” Major Gage added. “Again, we are
“Our wings have changed, but our relation- Along with the experience of traveling, Major nonstop, no off-position.”
TRAINING, from Page 1 From the 37th AS to the 86th
Operations Support Squadron, the
things we were able to accomplish 86th Maintenance Squadron to
in Israel were dirt landings and low- the 435th Contingency Response
level flying. This is a great train- Group, many Ramstein units partici-
ing opportunity as the environment pated in the exercise. More than 100
has similarities to where we would people participated in the training,
deploy to, such as Africa or the each contributing their part to the
Middle East.” mission.
During the training, the 37th AS “You cannot do an effort all by
was able to get many pilots qualified yourself,” Captain Santoro said.
on training necessities. “Everyone participating has worked
“Everything has gone well,” hard and it shows. From the MXS,
Captain Santoro said. “One of the to OSS and the CRG, they have
main things we have been able helped make it happen.”
to achieve is seasoning with the With everyone working together,
J-model since we are still learn- they were able to learn how other
ing the plane. It has allowed us to squadrons operate.
become more familiar with the air- “This is my first TDY with the
plane.” 37th AS, and I have really enjoyed Capt. Sarah Santoro, 37th Airlift Squadron mission commander for the Israel off station training,
And, for some, the training was working with them,” said Senior navigates over the Dead Sea, the lowest point in the world, Dec. 6. Ramstein units participated
in a 10-day training exercise to accomplish training requirements because of the strict air restric-
a first. Airman Chris Tate, 86th OSS air-
tions in Germany.
“Many of the pilots had never crew flight equipment. “I have been
done a dirt landing, so they were able to appreciate and see what the ting J-models in the near future,” in the plane, instincts kick in.”
excited to have the chance,” Captain CRG does and learn more about Captain Santoro said. “They seem Not only did the Airmen take
Santoro said. their job. And, they have also taken impressed with the airplanes. The away knowledge from their Israeli
Since the arrival of the first a look to see what we do.” Israelis have been a phenomenal counterparts, but the Israelis were
J-model aircraft to Ramstein in While in Israel, many of Airmen partner. The interaction has allowed also able to learn a great deal.
April, the 37th AS has continued to were also able to work closely and us to take away and learn a lot.” “Working with the Americans has
build on their familiarity with the build partnerships with the Israeli Despite the difference in language, been a great opportunity for us,”
airplane. military members, something which it didn’t impact how the aircrews said Amit Ronen, Israeli air force
“We are a young squadron new to many said was a highlight of their operated in the air, the captain said. reserve warrant officer “We have
the J-model, and we are continually trip. “I’ve found aircrew are aircrew also been able to see how Americans
building experience for our pilots “The Israelis were eager to host no matter what flag is on their shoul- work with the aircraft, and show
and crews,” the captain added. us as they are supposed to be get- der,” she added. “Once you get them them the way we do things.”
Page 6 Kaiserslautern American December 18, 2009
A lame “Lynx”
by Dr. Marshall Michel complex structure. The result
86th Airlift Wing historian was the Lynx had to carry most
of its bombs in drag-producing
I
n the mid-1930s, war clouds began gath- external mounts.
ering and the world’s military powers Additionally, its P. X1 engines,
began looking at modernizing their weap- while powerful, were proving to
ons inventories, especially their combat be unreliable.
aircraft inventory, and Italy, under its Fascist When armor and armament
leader Benito Mussolini, was no exception. were added to make the produc-
At that time, Italy had an air force roughly the tion version, the performance Photo from the author’s collection
size of France, but the Italian air force – “Regia began to drop precipitously, and The very sleek Ba. 88.
Aeronautica” – was badly in need of new, mod- the extra weight gave the aircraft a very high
ern aircraft. In 1936, the Italian air force issued wing loading and made it hard to maneuver.
a requirement for a high speed, twin engine, two There was an initial decision not to produce the
seat fighter bomber with a heavy forward firing aircraft, but Mussolini was enamored of the Lynx
armament and a range of more than 1,000 miles. because of its world records (and because of the
The Breda Company responded quickly and in need to keep Breda’s assembly line opened) and
October 1936 rolled out its answer to the require- he ordered it into production.
ment, the Breda Ba. 88 “Lince,” (Lynx), which When Italy declared war on France in May
certainly looked the part of an advanced fighter. It 1940, more than 100 Ba. 88s were in service. to fly at a few thousand feet and at a top speed of
was a slim, sleek, streamlined aircraft of all metal There were 74 Ba. 88s based in Sardinia and they about 150 mph. They could not fly in formation,
construction, with a shoulder mounted wing and participated in the first attacks on French bases and after a short time the engines began to over-
two 1,000 Piaggio P. X1 radial engines. It carried on Corsica. They suffered no loses in brief action, heat. The attack was aborted.
a partially powered rear turret, the latest avionics, but the crews reported back that the aircraft were Later, Regina Aeronautica analysis showed the
self-sealing fuel tanks and fully retractable land- underpowered and unsuited for combat missions. Ba. 88 had a rate of climb of just over 300 feet
ing gear. But on Sept. 9, 1940, there was no choice but a minute. One story – perhaps apocryphal – says
Its performance was also promising. In to use them when Italy invaded the British protec- that one Lynx had to find a field directly ahead of
February 1937, a racing version of the prototype torate of Egypt. it to land because it could not climb high enough
set a world speed record of more than 322 mph Thirty-two Ba. 88s of the No. 7 “Gruppo to do a banked turn.
on a 100 kilometer course, and April 10, 1937, Autonomo” moved to Libya and were fitted with This left the Regia Aeronautica with a full
it set another record by averaging 295 mph over sand filters on their engines, but these sand fil- group of aircraft that were totally unsuited for
a 1,000 kilometer course and then broke its own ters, which in the process of filtering the sand cut combat. Left to decide how to best use them,
record in December 1937 by averaging 326 mph down on the airflow to the engine, proved to be the base commander stripped them of all usable
over the 1,000 kilometer course. the last straw for the Lynx. equipment and spread them around the base as
There were, however, hidden problems in the On Sept. 12, the Ba. 88s tried to make their first decoys for marauding Royal Air Force aircraft.
modern design. The fuselage was not stressed sortie against British positions at Sidi Barrani. To But inertia is a powerful force. It took time for
skin, which produces a light but fairly strong keep their weight down they carried a minimum the production line to grind to a halt and some
fuselage, but rather a framework of steel tubes amount of fuel and did not carry the gunner and 65 more Ba. 88s were produced. They were
with aluminum skin stretched over them, rein- his gun. But even then, several of the attack- immediately scrapped as part of Italy’s national
forced with a winding of alloy over the skin. ing aircraft were unable to take off because the critical material recovery plan, thus ending the
While this was very strong, it was heavy and engines did not produce enough power. career of what was probably the most disappoint-
hard to manufacture. It was also impossible to fit Those that took off found their engines only ing aircraft in Italian aviation history.
a large bomb bay because it would weaken the produced about half power, which forced them (Dr. Michel is currently deployed downrange.)
Civil Engineers’ Corner
Dec. 24 through Jan. 15. For details, call CE cus- clips are available in the exchange and off-base
Holiday refuse, recycling tomer service at 489-7703 or 0631-536-7703 at garden centers. Do not place decorations on
Due to the Christmas and New your roof.
Year holidays, there will be no Holiday decorations
refuse pickup from Dec. 24 to 27 Family housing residents may display exterior Dormitory manager positions available
and again on Jan. 1. Extra dumpsters, however, decorations according to these rules: Decorations The 86th Civil Engineer Squadron has vacan-
will be located throughout Ramstein, Vogelweh, may be displayed 30 days prior to the event and cies in dorm management. We are seeking highly
Kapaun and Landstuhl housing communities for should be removed within 10 days following that motivated individuals interested in a unique expe-
recyclable paper (cardboard, wrapping paper) date. rience that will develop their leadership, mentor-
disposal only. Do not place household garbage in Do not run an extension cord through doors ing and management abilities and broaden their
these “temporary-recycle” dumpsters. or windows. Ensure the cord is rated for exterior talents. These positions are highly visible and
Both Ramstein and Vogelweh recycling centers use. require working with all levels of leadership.
will be closed Dec. 25 and Jan. 1. Do not utilize portable transformers outside Interested individuals should contact Master
For Christmas tree disposal, an extra dumpster your housing unit. Use only special clips designed Sgt. Laura Salazar at the Dormitory Reception
will be provided at both recycling centers from for hanging exterior decorations on homes. These Center, Bldg. 2413, or call 480-3676.
December 18, 2009 Kaiserslautern American Page 7
TTTooouuurrr fffooorrr TTTrrroooooopppsss 222000000999
rrroooccckkksss RRRaaammmsssttteeeiiinnn
by Senior Airman Amanda Dick
86th Airlift Wing Public Affairs
Photo by Airman 1st Class Caleb Pierce
Singer/songwriter Kid Rock performs at the Tour for the Troops 2009 concert Dec. 9 inside Hangar 1 on Ramstein. Singer/songwriter Jessie James, comedian Carlos Mencia and Kid Rock, along with
the Twisted Brown Trucker Band, performed for KMC members and their families to thank the troops and increase morale during the holiday season.
R
ed, blue and amber lights streamed “Because of that, I’ve gotten to meet so
toward the performers as they belted many different people. So, I think it’s
out songs and told jokes, causing an helped me in many, many ways, and I’m
exuberant crowd to chant, sing and proud of it.”
laugh along. After the electric performance by Ms.
This was the setting for Team Ramstein mem- James, comedian Carlos Mencia, known
bers who packed into Hangar 1 on Ramstein for his stand-up comedy skits and show
Dec. 9 to watch singer/songwriter Jessie James, “Mind of Mencia,” took to the stage.
comedian Carlos Mencia and headliner Kid Rock, Although this was Mr. Mencia’s third
along with the Twisted Brown Trucker Band, as time visiting troops overseas, it was his
they continued their Tour for the Troops 2009. fi rst visit to Ramstein.
After an opening performance from the Band of “I have three cousins who have
the U.S. Air Force Reserve, the concert rolled on served on bases in Germany – one Air
as up-and-coming country/pop artist Jessie James Force and two Army,” the Honduran-
entertained with her eclectic style of music, jam- born comedian said. “It’s interesting to
ming to her hit songs such as “Wanted,” and “My come to a place they’ve been talking
Cowboy.” about for a long time and where they’ve Photo by Tech. Sgt. Sean Mateo White
Although this is Ms. James’ fi rst overseas mili- been stationed. I get to go home and tell Singer/songwriter Jessie James, the daughter of an Air Force fi ghter pilot,
performs for the KMC Dec. 9.
tary tour, she is no stranger to the military and all my comedian friends, and friends in
was excited for the chance to do her part. general, I got to perform for the troops Brown Trucker Band headlined the concert, per-
“My dad’s been in the Air Force my whole life, in Germany.” forming such hits as “All Summer Long” and
so this is all I’ve ever known, and it just feels Mr. Mencia was part of a USO tour in 2007 and “Cowboy.”
really good to be able to give back,” the Italian- toured with Operation MySpace in 2008. He said This is Kid Rock’s second trip to Ramstein and
born singer said. “Growing up in a military he continues to visit troops because “it’s a good he has also been a part of several overseas tours
household has defi nitely made me appreciative of way to give back.” to visit with military.
our military. I’ve been taught to respect all of our The comedian said his biggest goal on this tour “I think this is the least we can do, especially
military and peers in general. I just think the mili- was to bring laughter to the men and women of for people like me who enjoy every freedom
tary is such a classy organization, and it teaches the military and their families. available to me in the good old USA,” the triple
people respect and discipline. This (tour) is just “I just want to bring a piece of America here,” platinum artist said in a recent Air Force article.
me saying ‘thank you.’” he said. “Tell some jokes, make people laugh and “I feel very strongly about freedom and the peo-
The daughter of an Air Force fi ghter pilot, Ms. have a good time, talk about stuff that happened ple who protect it, serve for it and do it so unself-
James said being a military dependent gave her back home and make people forget about all the ishly. It’s literally the least I could do.”
the social skills needed to travel on the road to stuff that’s going on, especially in wartime.” Tour for the Troops 2009 kicked off in Incirlik
success. Mr. Mencia not only performed during the con- Air Base, Turkey, followed by a tour in Southwest
“I think being a military brat, there are so many cert, but also put on a separate adult show later on Asia before stopping at Ramstein. Kid Rock,
benefi ts involved with it because you get to travel in the evening. Jessie James and Carlos Mencia will be heading
all over the world and live in different countries Rounding out the concert, Grammy nominated off to perform at Royal Air Force Lakenheath,
– I got to live in 14 different places,” she said. Robert Rich, aka Kid Rock, and the Twisted United Kingdom, after their Ramstein visit.
Page 8 Kaiserslautern American December 18, 2009
Ramstein participates in MAFEX ’09
by Capt. Matt Wunderlich Ramstein’s second C-130J,
37th Airlift Squadron piloted by Capt. Jason Childs, was
part of a four-ship formation that
Two of Ramstein’s newest assembled over northern Texas to
C-130J Super Hercules aircraft airdrop the brigade’s equipment
transited the Atlantic back to the within the Nellis Test Range. After
United States to participate in leaving the dropzone, Captain
the Weapons Instructor School’s Childs led a formation of two air-
Mobility Air Forces Exercise craft to a gravel landing zone for
2009B. tactical airland operations. With
Ninety-one USAF aircraft from A-10 fighter escort on his wing
across the globe assembled at and an unmanned aerial vehicle
Nellis Air Force Base to take part high above providing surveillance
in this coordinated air battle with of the landing zone, Captain Childs
the objective of securing airspace completed his mission and depart-
while successfully delivering an ed the range bound for Nellis Air
entire Army Brigade into a simu- Force Base.
lated combat zone. The Ramstein “The C-130J is ideally suited
contingent was commanded by Photo by Airman 1st Class Stephanie Rubi for austere operations like these,”
Capt. Justin Brumley – a weapons A row of C-130 Hercules taxi during a Mobility Air Forces Exercise Nov. 18. The aircraft are part of the Captain Childs said. “By retain-
biannual U.S. Air Force Weapons School MAFEX, which provides realistic training for combat air force,
instructor from the 37th Airlift ing currency and practicing these
mobility air force and U.S. Army personnel.
Squadron whose expertise with large-scale operations the 37th
the employment of the C-130 fostered mission Rock Air Force Base as the opening gambit in Airlift Squadron retains its ability to provide
effectiveness throughout the exercise. MAFEX. Captain Brumley was tasked as the first immediate response to any situation out there.”
“MAFEX is an opportunity for our pilots to mobility aircraft to ingress the Nellis Test Range The Mobility Forces Exercise 2009B success-
see the numerous levels of coordination available via low-level to airdrop Army paratroopers secur- fully saw the insertion of an Army Brigade while
from our sister aircraft throughout the Air Force,” ing a strategic location therein enabling exercise honing the airdrop skills of the aircrews. With this
said Captain Brumley. “In honing our skills as continuation. With mission success, 33 mobility first employment of USAFE’s newest C-130J’s
pilots we can better assist our users – in this case aircraft ranging from the legacy C-130E/H to the complete, the 37th Airlift Squadron continues to
the United States Army – in doing their jobs.” C-17 Globemaster were able to continue their galvanize its capability while bringing the lessons
In the dawning hours of Nov. 17, a single missions in delivering the remainder of the Army learned back to optimally serve in Europe, Africa,
Ramstein C-130J lifted off the ground at Little Brigade. and Asia.
Story and photo by from their families as well?” a candy cane and a poem called comfort and support to troops head-
Senior Airman Amanda Dick It was at this moment that Project “Servicemember’s Christmas.” ed downrange through the letters,”
86th Airlift Wing Public Affairs Rudolph was born, as founder Tawny “We want each bag to be per- the Project Rudolph founder said.
Archibald Campbell, her husband sonal,” Mrs. Campbell said. “The “We had one servicemember tell
I
magine driving home from and their daughter decided to give a bags are hand decorated, the letters us it was the only present he got on
the base exchange with “piece” of the holidays to deployed are handwritten – no photo copies Christmas that year. Another wife
your spouse and child. It’s troops in the form of goodie bags. or computer print outs – and the e-mailed to tell us her husband came
Christmastime – the first away from The bags are filled with American bags are assembled by hand. There home from Iraq with the bag in his
the rest of your family – and the and German candy (if available), is a lot of love that goes into each of hand, and it was wonderful for her to
thought pops into your mind, “What three letters (two from children and these bags, and we want that to be know we were there for him. If we
can I do for others who are away one from an adult), an ornament, conveyed to our troops.” hand out 1,000 bags and it touches
For the two weeks leading up two lives, then that was enough and
to Christmas, the bags are handed worth all of the work.”
out to those deployed or deploy- Donations for the bags are
ing through the Kaiserslautern collected throughout the year from
Military Community at the Ramstein members in the KMC, as well
Passenger Terminal and Landstuhl as stateside. To date, about 14
Regional Medical Center. countries and 46 states have given
Bags are also mailed from donations in support of this project.
Germany or the stateside head- “One grandma in southern Idaho
quarters in Idaho, headed by Mrs. hand wrote 1,000 letters for Project
Campbell’s parents Ray and Cheri Rudolph. She wrote 20 letters a day
Archibald, to deployed service- until she had written 1,000,” Mrs.
members downrange. Since Project Campbell said. “Another woman
Rudolph began in 2006, the number in Illinois collected more than 200
of bags given to those deployed has pounds of candy for us. She got the
increased from 3,000 to more than word out and collected Halloween
Holiday goodie bags lay on the Project Rudolph table in the Ramstein Passenger Terminal
10,000 bags.
Dec. 16 waiting to be given to a deploying troop. Tawny Archibald Campbell and her family
started Project Rudolph in 2006 to help spread holiday cheer to deployed U.S. servicemembers. “The bags provide a degree of See HOLIDAYS, Page 10
December 18, 2009 Kaiserslautern American Page 9
Page 10 Kaiserslautern American December 18, 2009
“
HOLIDAYS, from Page 8
As the spouse of someone who was deployed, I know how I felt every time
candy. She didn’t buy it, just collected it from
others. Another woman and her daughter worked someone showed me or my spouse support. I want to be more than the person who
throughout the year and wrote 200 letters, deco-
says they support our military; I want to be the person who actually does something”
rated 1,000 bags and made 1,000 ornaments.”
Mrs. Campbell is not alone in making this
—Tawny Archibald Campbell
project a success each and every year. This year Project Rudolph founder
she had help from a leadership team that helped
manage the project. She also had a dedicated vol-
unteer coordinator, community liaison and event “We are here in a unique position,” she said. hopes once she moves to a new location with her
coordinator, as well as those who volunteer, to “We have access to the PAX terminal. As a mili- husband those here will carry on the project.
help make the bags and hand them out at the PAX tary spouse, I have access to troops. As the spouse “The charity was designed to provide a bit of
terminal. of someone who was deployed, I know how I felt cheer to those who said goodbye to loved ones
“It was so touching to see their faces light up,” every time someone showed me or my spouse and would be spending the holidays away from
said Linda Madrid, Project Rudolph volunteer, support. I want to be more than the person who family,” she said. “We hope that in the years to
after volunteering at the PAX terminal. says they support our military; I want to be the come, we will have volunteers from the KMC
Mrs. Campbell said the inspiration behind person who actually does something. That is how step up and make sure that continues to happen.”
Project Rudolph comes from a saying by American most of our volunteers feel too; they want to do For those interested in the project or to have a
author Edward Everett Hale, “I am only one, but something.” bag sent to a deployed friend or family member,
I am one, I cannot do everything, but I can do As volunteers of Project Rudolph send holiday visit www.projectrudolph.org or e-mail tawny@
something …” greetings downrange, Mrs. Campbell said she projecttlcserves.org.
PETERSON AIR FORCE The Web site is available in seven “@noradsanta” into the search program is carried out with the assis-
BASE, Colo. — It’s that time of languages, and on Dec. 24 will engine and start tracking. tance of many corporate partners.
the year again and North American stream videos captured by NORAD New this year, OnStar is partner- Booz Allen Hamilton has designed
Aerospace Defense Command “Santa Cams” from numerous cities ing with NORAD to provide OnStar the NTS Web site. Other spon-
officials are getting ready to track along Santa’s journey. subscribers with live Santa updates sors helping with the event include
Santa Claus. This year, children and the young- as they travel in their vehicles on Verizon, who donates the toll-free
The NORAD Tracks Santa Web at-heart will be able to track Santa Christmas Eve. Subscribers can number, Time Warner, Avaya and
site, www.noradsanta.org, is now through Facebook, Twitter, YouTube, simply push the blue OnStar but- PCI provide communications engi-
live and features fun holiday games Flickr and TroopTube.mil. To fol- ton to get status reports on Santa’s neering, while OnStar, 5 Star Bank,
and activities that change daily. low any of these Web sites, type in whereabouts. Also new and begin- Pepsi Distributing and First Choice
ning at 12 a.m. MST Awards and Gifts keep the track-
Dec. 24, visitors to ers happy with food, beverages and
the Web site can souvenir tracking pins.
watch Santa as he The NTS program began on
prepares his sleigh, Dec. 24, 1955, after a phone call
checks his list and was made to the Continental Air
goes through all Defense Command Operations
his preparations Center in Colorado Springs, Colo.
to ensure he has a The call was from a local child
successful journey. who dialed a misprinted telephone
As soon as Santa number in a local newspaper
takes off from the advertisement. The commander
North Pole, chil- at Cheyenne Mountain Air Force
dren can also track Station, Colo., who answered the
him with up-to-the- phone that night gave the child the
minute Google Maps information requested – the where-
and Google Earth abouts of Santa. This began the
reports. tradition of tracking Santa, a tradi-
Santa trackers tion that was carried on by NORAD
will begin answer- when it was formed in 1958.
ing phones and The NTS program has grown
replying to e-mail at immensely since first presented on
4 a.m. MST (6 a.m. the Internet in 1998. The Web site
MMss SShhiirrlleeyy DDoonnaallddssoonn ffrroomm UUSSSAAFFEE 8866 MMDDOOSS//SSSGGOOWW ttrrooonniicccsss, SSSaattuuurrrnn oooofffffeerrrss aa vvvaarrriieettyyy oofff aammmmeenniitttiieesss ttoo ttthheeeiirr UUSSS EST) on Christmas receives millions of unique visitors
proudly received her fabulous Pre-Christmas present military customers: Payments in US Dollars are accepted,
Eve. Children of from hundreds of countries and ter-
from Mr. Gerd Steingraeber, Managing director from GPC and VAT-forms can also be used with any purchase.
Saturn Kaiserslautern. Saturn kindly sponsored a The Saturn staff is highly qualifi ed to answer all techni- all ages can call the ritories around the world. In addi-
Philips 42” full high defi nition fl at screen TV for our 2009 cal questions you might have. And best of all: English is NTS toll-free num- tion, the NTS Operations Center will
Kaiserslautern American Reindeer Hunt, which was spoken! If you are still looking for a special Christmas gift ber 877-Hi-NORAD be occupied for 25 hours with more
published on Thanksgiving. for your loved one, visit Saturn in the industrial area at
(877-446-6723) or than 1,200 volunteers on Christmas
Mr. Steingraeber and his team have been serving the the Opel Circle and take your pick.
military community in the Kaiserslautern/Ramstein area Mr. Steingraeber and his team welcome you from send an e-mail to Eve, who will be receiving hundreds
for over 5 years. Apart from amazing deals on elec- Monday - Saturday from 10 a.m.-8 p.m. noradtrackssanta@ of thousands phone calls and e-mails
gmail.com. The NTS from families around the world.