Ramstein welcomes new apprentices

40 Pages·2016·14.25 MB·English

September 30, 2016 HAVE YOU READ YOUR KA TODAY? Volume 40, number 39
Ramstein welcomes new apprentices
Story and photo by
Tech Sgt. Sara Keller
86th Airlift Wing Public Affairs
Ramstein welcomed 21 new local
national apprentices after being hired
through the installation’s recently
revived apprenticeship program
Sept. 16.
The 86th Airlift Wing command-
er, Brig. Gen. Richard G. Moore Jr.,
welcomed the apprentices for the
start of their vocational training.
“This program is a huge oppor-
tunity for our community,” Moore
said. “You play a vital role in
Ramstein’s long-term success, and
we are honored to have you on the
team.”
Although more than 350 local
nationals applied to the apprentice-
ship program, only 21 were chosen.
“I saw the statistics on how many
people applied versus how many
Brig. Gen. Richard G. Moore Jr., 86th Airlift Wing commander, speaks to a group of local national employees and 21 new apprentices who were
were chosen, and it is truly impres- hired through Ramstein’s recently revived apprenticeship program Sept. 16 on Ramstein. Ramstein’s apprenticeship program mirrors the German
sive the folks we were able to gain,” vocational system and provides practical hands-on skills as well as classroom education for young adults.
Moore said to the new apprentices.
“We are so excited to have you here. Ramstein’s apprenticeship pro- well as classroom education for Bengoua, an apprentice chosen to
You have not just been hired to do a gram is designed to mirror the young adults. be an office clerk at the 86th Force
job, but you have joined a team and German vocational system and pro- “I am so proud to be able to
a family.” vides practical hands-on skills as work at Ramstein,” said Natasha See apprenticeS, page 2
Germany celebrates Unification Day Monday
by Petra Lessoing in 1989. During September and October border into West Germany just to cel- contracts May 18 and Aug. 31.
86th Airlift Wing Public Affairs of that year, East Germans demonstrat- ebrate, sightsee and purchase goods, Finally, on Oct. 3, 1990, the German
ed for democratic reforms and the right which they were not able to obtain in Democratic Republic ceased to exist.
Germany will observe Unification to travel to Dresden, Leipzig, Halle, the east. After 40 years it vanished from the
Day Monday. Each year, on Oct. 3, Schwerin and other towns. The wall, a symbol of the Cold War world’s political map.
stores, banks and official institutions Chief of State Erich Honecker for 28 years, was torn down during Berlin was chosen as the new capital
are closed since it is a legal holiday was dismissed from his top position the following weeks and months, and city of unified Germany.
throughout Germany. Oct. 18, 1989, and the new political pieces were sold as souvenirs. The celebrations in Berlin the night
The former German Democratic office announced the opening of the East Germany’s first free elections of Oct. 2 included a giant fireworks
Republic — East Germany — and the borders to the Federal Republic of in 40 years were held March 18, 1990, display, hundreds of thousands of peo-
Federal Republic of Germany — West Germany and the border gates along and citizens elected a new government. ple dancing in the streets and drink-
Germany — were officially reunited the Berlin wall the night of Nov. 9. Basic changes concerning the country’s ing champagne, and the raising of
Oct. 3, 1990. Over the next three days, more than economy, currency, social laws and the national flag on the former East
The process of reunification started 3 million East Germans crossed the jurisdiction were established by state German parliament building.
TTTTTTTTTTTTTTTHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHEEEEEEEEEEEEEEE GGGGGGGGGGGGGGGRRRRRRRRRRRRRRREEEEEEEEEEEEEEEAAAAAAAAAAAAAAATTTTTTTTTTTTTTT KKKKKKKKKKKKKKKAAAAAAAAAAAAAAA GGGGGGGGGGGGGGGIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIVVVVVVVVVVVVVVVEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAYYYYYYYYYYYYYYY!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! ES LES
Congratulations WS ATUR ESTY
to our Winners NE FE LIF
see page 25 Preventing mishaps Ramstein barber reflects Farmers market offers re-
through FOD walk, Page 3 on 35 years, Page 9 gional products, Page 16
Page 2 Kaiserslautern American September 30, 2016
Ramstein remembers those not left behind
the prison camp.
“We’d use our brain,” Pollack said.
“We’d teach each other different
things and learn different things. We
were always thinking. … And that’s
how we survived.”
Pollack also stressed the impor-
tance of adhering to the Code of
Conduct, narrating the story of a fel-
low prisoner who stuck to the code
even in the face of brutal treatment.
“He was a young Navy lieutenant
who was really beat up badly, and
I was a young Air Force lieutenant
trying to survive,” Pollack recalled.
“When you have nothing else going
for you, thinking about the Code of
Conduct and how you would behave
… is most important.”
Pollack was eventually released
March 4, 1973. He continued his
career in the Air Force and eventually
became a lieutenant colonel.
“What I found out the hard way …
Photo by Staff Sgt. Timothy Moore
in getting shot down was that the stuff
Retired U.S. Air Force Lt. Col. Melvin Pollack stands in silence before a wreath during a ceremony on National POW/MIA Recognition Day Sept. 16 on
you learn in the schools you go to will
Ramstein. Pollack was joined by Brig. Gen. Richard G. Moore Jr., 86th Airlift Wing commander (left), Col. Andra Kniep, 435th Air Ground Operations
Wing and 435th Air Expeditionary Wing commander (center), and Col. Bradley Cooper, 521st Air Mobility Operations Wing vice commander, in come in handy, especially in times of
laying the wreath. adversity,” Pollack recalled.
Tech. Sgt. Gregory Hobbs, Kisling
by Airman 1st Class “I slammed into a mountain … watchful eye of his captors. NCOA instructor, appreciated Pollack
Joshua Magbanua so hard my head snapped back and Besides the isolation and degrading taking the time to come to the Kisling
86th Airlift Wing Public Affairs cracked my helmet,” Pollack said. treatment they went through, Pollack NCOA to share his story with the stu-
“The villagers came, probably 30 or and his fellow prisoners were also dents.
“I may be older, but I’m a fighter 35 of them. What’s interesting is just subject to torture, interrogation and “To be captured, beaten and to go
pilot,” he said, smiling, as he shared about every single (enemy combat- brainwashing. North Vietnamese cap- through some form of torture and still
his story of perseverance before a ant), including the kids, were armed tors also found out details about their remain loyal, I think that’s amazing,”
crowd of Kisling NCO Academy stu- to the teeth. There I am on the ground personal lives, Pollack said. Hobbs said. “Not folding, staying
dents Sept. 12 on Kapaun. and (their weapons) all pointed at “You never knew what to expect,” strong under pressure, keeping my
Retired Air Force Lt. Col. Melvin me.” Pollack said. “I was a young first lieu- military bearing and not giving them
Pollack, Vietnam War veteran, was The villagers detained Pollack until tenant. … Yet they knew everything what they want, that would probably
flying his 78th mission when he was the militia came and brought him to about me. They knew I was young, I be my biggest takeaway.”
shot down and captured approximate- Hanoi, where he was kept in a former was single and (even) where I came As Pollack concluded his talk, he
ly 50 miles north of Hanoi, Vietnam, French prison. from.” encouraged the students to persevere
July 6, 1967. For the next five years and eight Pollack said the mutual support and even when faced with adversity.
Even though his ordeal as a pris- months, Pollack found himself locked communication between prisoners are “Never ever give up, and every-
oner of war was nearly fifty years ago, up, isolated from the outside world, some of the things that enabled him to thing else will fall into place,” Pollack
Pollack vividly remembers the details. far away from home and under the persevere even within the confines of said. “That’s the number one lesson.”
apprentices, from page 1 people and experience new things.” ees may have the opportunity to has one of the most extensive mis-
Apprenticeship positions can take transfer to a permanent position in sions throughout the Air Force, and
Support Squadron. “This is such a anywhere from three and a half to the area they were trained in. local national employees play a huge
great opportunity. I have already four years to complete. Once the Known as the Air Force’s premier role in keeping so many aspects of
been able to meet so many wonderful apprenticeship is complete, employ- power projection platform, Ramstein the wing’s mission successful.
including insert or supplements, does not constitute Deadlines: AdvantiPro’s KA Team
endorsement by the DOD, the Department of the Air Force
• News, feature, school articles and photos – noon Thursday KA Editor Allison M. Conley
or the AdvantiPro GmbH of the products or the services
for the following week’s edition
advertised. Sales Team Armand Derderian, Anita Köhler
The Kaiserslautern American is published by • Sports articles and photos – noon Thursday for the follow-
AdvantiPro GmbH, Kaiserslautern, Germany, a private Everything advertised in this publication shall be made ing week’s edition Holly Ginas, Karin Flick
available for purchase, use or patronage without regard to
firm in no way connected with the Department of the race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, marital status, • Free (space available) classifieds – noon Tuesday for that  Display Ads Jennifer Holdsworth
Air Force or the Department of the Army, under exclu-
same week’s KA
sive contract with the 86th Airlift Wing. physical handicap, political affiliation or any other non Ad Design & Layout Alexander Pütz,
AdvantiPro staff encourages reader comments. Send
This commercial enterprise newspaper is an autho- merit factor of the purchaser, user or patron. Manuel Flaetgen
rized publication for members of the military services Editorial content is based on news releases, features, questions, comments, article and photo submissions to:
Erik Nielsen
overseas. editorials and reports prepared by Department of Defense, [email protected] or call AdvantiPro at
Contents of the KA are not necessarily the offi- Air Force and Army agencies, KMC military units and 0631-3033-5547. Classified Ads Isabell Smith
cial view of, or endorsed by, the U.S. government, geographically separated units. To place classified ads, visit www.FindItGuide.com. For
Quality Control Jennifer Holdsworth
Department of Defense or Department of the Air Force. AdvantiPro staff reserves the right to edit all submit- display ads, email [email protected] or call
The appearance of advertising in this publication, ted material. 0631-30 3355 36. Printer Oggersheimer Druckzentrum
September 30, 2016 Kaiserslautern American Page 3
Preventing mishaps through FOD Prevention Program
Story and photos by
Airman 1st Class
Savannah L. Waters
86th Airlift Wing
Public Affairs
Hundreds of Ramstein
Airmen walked the runway
searching for foreign objects
that could cause damage
to aircraft and personnel
Sept. 20 on Ramstein.
A section of the flightline
was closed down from Sept.
15 to Sept. 18 and used for
this year’s Ramstein Bazaar.
Airmen came together to
help pick up debris from
the event before the reacti-
vation of Ramp 2, Taxiway
Delta, and Hangars 1 and
2. The walk is part of the
86th Airlift Wing’s Foreign
Object Damage Prevention
Program.
“There’s a plethora of
ways to cause (foreign
object damage),” said Tech.
Sgt. Daniel Graham, 86 AW
FOD monitor. “Birds, main- Airmen spread out across Ramp 2 on the flightline to look for debris Sept. 20 on Ramstein. A foreign object damage incident could cost as little as a few hun-
tenance, rocks in tires, unse- dred dollars or as much as a few hundred thousand dollars, depending on what part of an aircraft or vehicle is damaged.
cured items in vehicles and
truck beds, and the loading cans, zippers and paper. “I’ll do semiannual spot is said to get a pass, or a day Port Squadron ramp special-
and unloading of passengers All of these items can cre- inspections on all the units off from work. ist.
and luggage on the flightline ate a FOD incident, which to make sure they are meet- “I enjoyed this morning’s The 86 AW FOD
can cause FOD. Due to this, can lead to an aircraft being ing the intent of the pro- FOD walk, and the Golden Prevention Program helps to
every ramp is FOD walked a damaged. FOD incidents can gram,” Graham said. “When Bolt gives us Airmen fur- ensure the safety of vehi-
minimum of once a week.” cost anywhere from a few people talk about FOD, they ther incentive to improve cles, personnel and aircraft
The average FOD walk hundred to a few hundred don’t realize that it’s not just the quality of the flight- here and is essential to the
requires only about 35 thousand dollars depending checking your tires.” line,” said Airman 1st Class everyday operations of the
people. With the annual on the circumstance. Airmen can also be given Richard Watts, 721st Aerial flightline.
Ramstein Bazaar being such “Among other possible more than the challenge of
a huge event, over 300 peo- damage, aircraft engines can making sure the flightline is
ple came to pick up the left suck up the FOD off the clear of debris. Sometimes,
behind debris. flightline,” Graham said. an object of debris called
Items found during a FOD The personnel that par- the “Golden Bolt” is delib-
walk can include a wide ticipate in FOD walks usu- erately placed in the area a
variety of waste and debris ally work on or around the FOD walk is scheduled. The
such as pieces of metal, soda flightline. person who finds the object
BIO-CLEANING VAT-forms
PET ODOR REMOVAL accepted
Spittelstr. 3 (near Stiftsplatz) • 67655 Kaiserslautern
Tel: [phone]
1
Keschdefeschd
Oct. - 3,
201
6
A unique celebration on chestnuts.
Great specialities and entertainment.
The romantic city of
Annweiler invites you
For more info:
Enjoy the „culinary weeks“
Tourism offi ce Annweiler
in our restaurants in „Trifelsland“ Messplatz 1
An Airman drops a piece of metal into a trash bag during a foreign object damage prevention walk Sept. 20 on Come and enjoy our famous Chestnut days 76855 Annweiler
phone: [phone]
Ramstein. The Ramstein Bazaar was held earlier this month, and over 300 Airmen came to participate in a FOD walk with delicious specialities Oct. 01-Nov. 15, 2016 www.trifelsland.de
after the event to pick up any remaining debris left behind.
Page 4 Kaiserslautern American September 30, 2016
traffi c accident in Landstuhl.
5:08 p.m.: Major traffi c accident with injuries in
COMPILED BY THE Hochspeyer.
569TH USFPS AND 86TH SFS SEPT. 24
2:14 a.m.: Drunken operation of a vehicle on
Ramstein.
4:40 a.m.: Drunken operation of a vehicle in
Kaiserslautern.
5:09 a.m.: Major traffi c accident and drunken oper-
ation of a vehicle in Fockenberg-Limbach.
8:15 p.m.: Domestic assault on Vogelweh Family
SEPT. 19 10:36 p.m.: Drunken operation of a vehicle in
Housing.
Ramstein-Miesenbach.
2:25 p.m.: Command-directed breath alcohol con- 8:36 p.m.: Shoplifting on Vogelweh.
SEPT. 22
tent test and drunk on duty on Vogelweh. SEPT. 25
7:14 p.m.: Major traffi c accident with injuries in 1:45 a.m.: Major traffi c accident without injuries
1:30 a.m.: House break-in in Landstuhl.
Neuhemsbach. in Sembach.
4:15 a.m.: Failure to obey a general order or regula-
8:30 p.m.: Assault in Bad Duerkheim. 3 a.m.: Driving under the infl uence of a controlled
tion in Kaiserslautern.
10 p.m.: Domestic assault, child endangerment and substance and drunken operation of a vehicle in
11:30 a.m.: Theft from an unsecured motor vehicle
obstructing justice on Vogelweh Family Housing. Ramstein-Miesenbach.
in Morlautern.
8:05 a.m.: Major traffi c accident with injuries in
SEPT. 20 12:45 p.m.: House break-in in Landstuhl.
Enkenbach-Alsenborn.
1 p.m.: Major traffi c accident without injuries in 1:44 p.m.: Assault and larceny of secured private
9 a.m.: Theft from an unsecured motor vehicle in
Ramstein-Miesenbach. property in Kaiserslautern.
Bruchmuehlbach-Miesau.
1:45 p.m.: Major traffi c accident with injuries in
5:50 p.m.: House break-in in Eulenbis.
SEPT. 23
Massweiler.
SEPT. 21
4:20 a.m.: Drunken operation of a vehicle in 2:45 p.m.: Major traffi c accident with injuries in
6:17 a.m.: Major traffi c accident without injuries in Kaiserslautern. Rieschweiler-Muehlbach.
Knopp-Labaach. 6 a.m.: House break-in in Schopp. 4:52 p.m.: Major traffi c accident with injuries due
2:20 p.m.: Damage to government property on 11 a.m.: Suspicious activity near Vogelweh Family to careless driving in Neuhemsbach.
Ramstein. Housing. 11:19 p.m.: Drunken operation of a vehicle on
2:24 p.m.: Shoplifting on Ramstein. 3 p.m.: Drunken operation of a vehicle with a minor Ramstein.
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
Reported Larcenies
the crime was reported and not necessarily where the crime took place.
CFC-O kickoff Renovation on Einsiedlerhof
under the NATO Status of Forces Agreement
The Combined Federal Campaign-Overseas, The Furnishings Management Section on for Germany is subject to certain restrictions.
the annual workplace giving campaign for Einsiedlerhof Air Station is currently undergo- However, customs experts say U.S. forces per-
the fi ve overseas combatant commands, will ing renovation, with an estimated completion sonnel and organizations in Germany can donate
kick off Monday. The campaign provides uni- date of Monday. Entry will be at Bldg. 720, food, clothing and children’s toys to refugees
formed and civilian Department of Defense door 10. During this time, additional assistance without any restrictions based on an exception
personnel serving overseas the opportunity will be available at the Vogelweh Housing granted by German customs authorities. Those
to extend their service by supporting chari- Offi ce to meet customer needs. items can be donated either directly to a refugee
table causes of their choice. For details, con- or to organizations that collect items for refugees,
LVIS Gate closes
tact your unit CFC-O representative or visit such as the Red Cross, without the requirement
www.cfcoverseas.org. Construction of the LVIS access road is to effect customs clearance. Coordination with
scheduled until Oct. 10. Inbound and outbound German customs or U.S. military customs offi ces
Offi ce closures
traffi c through the LVIS Gate will be unavail- is not necessary as no taxes would need to be
• The KMC Housing Offi ce and Furnishings able for privately owned vehicles. Only trucks paid. Items bought in German stores are taxed
Management Section will be closed today due will have inbound access. by German authorities so can be donated to any
to an offi ce function as well as Monday due charitable organization without restriction. For
Retiree dental appointments
to a German legal holiday. Customer service questions dealing with customs, visit www.eur.
hours will resume Tuesday. The four Army dental clinics in the KMC army.mil/opm/customs/custommail.htm to fi nd
• The KMC Housing Offi ce and Furnishings will be open to support retirees as part of the contact information for your local customs offi ce.
Management Section will be closed Oct. 10 in KMC Retiree Appreciation Day from 7:30 a.m.
observation of the holiday. Customer service to 4:30 p.m. Wednesday. Appointments can
hours will resume Oct. 11. only be made for retirees. To make appoint-
• The KMC Housing Offi ce and Furnishings ments, call one of the following clinics to
e
Management Section will close at 11:30 a.m. which you belong:
t Oct. 12 due to training. Customer service hours • Baumholder, 06783-99-2211 or 485-2200
o will resume Oct. 13 • Kleber Kaserne, 0631-411-1720 or
483-1720
N
Voters week at KMCC
• Landstuhl, 06371-86-8136 or 486-8378 The Kaiserslautern Military
Absentee voters week ends today. Today’s • Pulaski Barracks, 0631-3406-4446 or Community Center parking lot is
e hours are from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. at the 493-4446
Ramstein’s highest motor vehicle acci-
Kaiserslautern Military Community Center on
k Donations to refugees dent area. Use extreme caution and
Ramstein. There will be information on getting
watch out for other drivers and pedes-
a registered to vote, receiving and submitting an Giving used personal belongings or items
trians in this area.
T absentee ballot and more. For more informa- bought at U.S. forces sales facilities to people
tion call 480-VOTE (8683) or 06371-47-8683. who are not eligible for customs exemption
September 30, 2016 Kaiserslautern American Page 5
Page 6 Kaiserslautern American September 30, 2016
721 APS raises bar, sets new record
Airmen from the 721st Aerial Port Squadron load a C-17 Globemaster III Sept. 7 on Ramstein. The 721 APS broke a record July 27 loading 120 tons of cargo onto a Boeing 747, the highest allowable
cargo load utilized on any commercial aircraft.
Story and photo by Airman 1st APS air terminal manager. “We asked using two B-747s and one C-17 An urgent need for construction
Class Joshua Magbanua the carrier if we can have room to go Globemaster III. material led the Airmen to expedite
86th Airlift Wing Public Affairs over our maximum allowable load. Senior Airman Juan Calderon, the mission.
They told us ‘yes’ after doing their 721 APS ramp services specialist, “We had agencies from three
Airmen of the 721st Aerial Port calculations. expressed pride in his teammates and CENTCOM locations put in req-
Squadron broke a new record for the “There are a lot of times in the aerial squadron for their record-breaking uisitions for this cargo, and it was
highest allowable cargo load for a ports where some of the cargo comes movement. important enough that it needed to get
commercial aircraft July 27. in already palletized, but this cargo “It’s not an everyday thing that we through as soon as possible,” Noe said.
Braving the summer heat, Airmen here all came in loose,” Noe added. do, so it’s a privilege,” Calderon said. “That’s why it went by airlift. We had a
of the 721 APS loaded 120 tons of “Our guys offloaded the trucks and “Everyone was assigned a task to do, time limit too; our headquarters sched-
construction material onto a Boeing built every pallet from start to finish. and everyone did it correctly in an uled the airlift that week. So we had to
747. I’m really proud of all of them.” orderly manner. We got everything build these pallets and also build the
“We normally get 100 tons on each Between July 25 and 30, the Airmen done safely. I feel like I can trust them cargo for the other locations that we
747 freighter mission, and most aerial of the 721 APS planned to load a col- in whatever they do. If I ask them to fly to. Our guys got them all built in
ports don’t even come close to using lective 240 tons of cargo destined for do something, I can trust them no mat- time. It was an awesome job watching
all that weight,” said Dean Noe, 721 customers in U.S. Central Command ter what.” our Airmen all work together.”
September 30, 2016 Kaiserslautern American Page 7
Operation Hard Target: Protecting homes and vehicles in KMC
by Senior Airman William Reece your home and help with key tasks vehicle theft statistic, here are some cate any affiliation to specific groups,
and Senior Airman Eric Beougher while you’re away, including: tips to help you to be a hard target: countries or interests. These mark-
86th Security Forces Squadron and – Collecting the mail from your • Always lock your doors and keep ings make your vehicle stand out and
569th United States Forces Police mailbox, as backed up mail may indi- windows rolled up. Eliminate easy could increase the likelihood that
Squadron cate residents are away. entry. your vehicle is targeted.
– Placing your trash cans out • Never leave high-value items in • Ensure rubber window seals,
Have you or anyone you know for pick-up days to make it appear as your vehicle, especially not in plain between the windows and doors, are
fallen victim to a house or vehi- though someone is home. view. Also, stow or secure any sec- maintained in order to prevent the
cle break-in? Unfortunately, both of – Randomly opening and clos- ondary signs of high-value items such easy use of break-in tools. If seals are
these crimes occur frequently within ing different rollladens while you’re as GPS mounts, power cords, stereo cracked or worn, it may be a good
the KMC, and both events can leave away to indicate someone is home. AUX cables or cell phone chargers. time to replace them.
victims reeling. But there are ways to • If you ever return to your resi- All of these things could mark your If you suspect that any of your per-
protect your home and vehicle from dence to see any strange chalk mark- car as a potential target. sonal belongings have been stolen,
being another statistic — Operation ings on your sidewalk, contact the • Keep your car as clean and empty contact the police for assistance. For
Hard Target. For this operation, you 569th U.S. Forces Police Squadron as possible. It will help avoid enticing thefts that occur on Ramstein, contact
can wage on crime in the area by low- at the KMC Law Enforcement Desk would-be criminals. the 86th Security Forces Squadron at
ering the likelihood that someone will at 0631-536-6060 and take pictures • Park in well-lit areas. If using 06371-47-2050. For thefts that occur
identify you as a fresh target for theft. of the markings for documentation. on-street parking, try to park under off base or on any of the other mili-
From October 2015 to June 2016, Some criminals have used these a street light or motion-sensor light. tary installations in the KMC, contact
there were 26 house break-in inci- markings in the past to mark houses • Remove and avoid any vehicle the KMC Law Enforcement Desk at
dents affecting status of forces agree- they believe are easy prey. stickers or decals that could indi- 0631-536-6060.
ment members in the KMC. Of these • Never leave spare keys under
26 incidents, eight occurred during doormats, flowerpots, mailbox-
the hours of darkness, categoriz- es or other “secret” hiding places.
ing them as burglaries. The high- Criminals know where to look.
est hit areas in the community were If you ever feel that your home has
Landstuhl, Ramstein-Miesenbach and been broken into or is unsafe, do not
Bruchmuehlbach-Miesau, primar- go inside. Immediately call 112 for
ily due to the density of houses and police assistance.
proximity to the autobahn. In order Unfortunately, vehicle break-ins
to avoid being another house break- are also prevalent in the KMC. From
in statistic, here are some tips to help October 2015 to June 2016, there
you to be a hard target: were 108 vehicle thefts and break-ins.
• Always double lock your doors, More than half of these vehicles were
turning the key until it will not turn secured — doors locked, windows
anymore, whether you are at home up — at the time of the theft. These
or away. It will make it harder for thefts occurred on all days of the
someone to force their way into your week and were prevalent shortly after
home. individuals arrived home from work
• Always close and lock your win- and during the overnight hours. Most
dows when no one is home. This thefts were linked to high-value items
eliminates easy modes of entry. being left in plain view to passersby.
• Do not leave boxes, particularly Also, just because someone lives on
those from high-value items, along a military installation does not mean
the curb of your residence. This could they are immune to these incidents.
identify you to would-be criminals as Break-ins can occur anywhere. Most
a desirable target. common items stolen from vehicles
• If you are going to be gone for include GPS systems, cell phones,
several days, whether traveling or MP3 players, military gear and uni-
TDY, inform your landlord about the forms, and computers and laptops.
trip and ask a trusted friend to watch In order to avoid being another Graphic by Andresr/Shutterstock.com
Hispanic Heritage Month: Embracing, Enabling, Enriching America
Sept. 15 to Oct. 15 is National Hispanic Heritage Month. The Library of Congress, National Archives and Records Administration, National Endowment
for the Humanities, National Gallery of Art, National Park Service, Smithsonian Institution and United States Holocaust Memorial Museum join in paying
tribute to the generations of Hispanic Americans who have positively influenced and enriched our nation and society.
86th Airlift Wing’s Hispanic Heritage Month events
• Through Oct. 10: Coloring contest for children 10 and under, Ramstein Library
• Through Oct. 13: Children’s storytime, 10 to 10:30 a.m. Thursdays at Ramstein Library
• Through Oct. 15: Hispanic heritage literary display, Ramstein Library
Hispanic Heritage Committee’s Hispanic Heritage Month events
• Through Monday: Scholarship essay contest. For details, email [email protected].
• Oct. 8: Breast Cancer Awareness 5K, 8 a.m. at Southside Fitness Center on Ramstein. This is a free event with T-shirts given to the first 50 registrants.
• Oct. 11: Speed mentoring, 9 to 11:30 a.m. on Ramstein, Bldg. 2407. To reserve a spot, email Tech. Sgt. Antonio Oquendo at [email protected].
Page 8 Kaiserslautern American September 30, 2016
Blue overtakes green on fairway
Photos by Senior Airman Nicole Keim
Airmen and Soldiers from the KMC warm up before the Army and Air Force Challenge Match golf Participants plan the next hole during the Army and Air Force Challenge Match golf tournament
tournament Sept. 18 at Rheinblick Golf Course in Wiesbaden, Germany. The annual tournament Sept. 18 at Rheinblick Golf Course in Wiesbaden, Germany. More than 50 service-affiliated mem-
is open to service-affiliated members of the Air Force and Army. bers of the Air Force and Army participated in the annual tournament.
Senior Airman Steven Rogers, 86th Aircraft Maintenance Squadron C-130J Super Hercules crew
chief, hits a golf ball during the Army and Air Force Challenge Match golf tournament Sept. 18 at
Rheinblick Golf Course in Wiesbaden, Germany. The two-day tournament was held at Rheinblick Golf clubs rest in the back of a golf cart during the Army and Air Force Challenge Match golf
and Woodlawn Golf Course on Ramstein. tournament Sept. 18 at Rheinblick Golf Course in Wiesbaden, Germany.
The Willi Geck Memorial Trophy rests on a table after being awarded to Air Force participants
during the Army and Air Force Challenge Match golf tournament Sept. 18 at Rheinblick Golf
A participant hits a golf ball during the Army and Air Force Challenge Match golf tournament Course in Wiesbaden, Germany. Airmen took home the trophy for the third year in a row with a
Sept. 18 at Rheinblick Golf Course in Wiesbaden, Germany. score of 39-33.
September 30, 2016 Kaiserslautern American Page 9
Sheer commitment: Ramstein barber reflects on 35 years
Story and photos For Gomez, the wall of
by Airman 1st Class photos is a constant remind-
Lane T. Plummer er of her impact on the
86th Airlift Wing Airmen that have paid her
Public Affairs a visit.
“I’ve met thousands of
Airmen have long held a people and even made a few
standard of dress and appear- friends through this job,”
ance that reflects how much Gomez said. “I enjoy mak-
pride they take in being in ing relationships with peo-
the military. ple.”
Perhaps there’s no one on One of the Airmen who
Ramstein that understands recently received a hair
the Air Force’s passion for cut from Gomez is Airman
maintaining standards bet- 1st Class Hector Montoya,
ter than one of the longest- 721st Aerial Port Squadron
working barbers on base, passenger service agent.
Claudia Gomez. “I sort of just found her
“I’ve been cutting hair for barber shop as I was looking
so long on Ramstein, but around, and the first thing I
I’ve always had the goal to thought was that it reminded
provide a comfortable expe- me of my hometown shop,”
rience for my customers,” Montoya said. “Gomez was
Gomez said. “I want them to very nice and very detailed
come in here and feel they about the haircut. You can
have a place to relax and tell she is passionate about
enjoy a nice haircut, one that what she does.”
I try to make so it reflects The Air Force was 33
Claudia Gomez, barber, poses for a portrait in her barber shop Sept. 20 on Ramstein. Gomez has been cutting hair on
who they are.” years old when Gomez
Ramstein since 1981. She is a quiet worker who enjoys working “in the background” and welcoming Airmen and their
Gomez began her career families to a relaxed environment where they can decompress. began working on Ramstein
as a barber at Ramstein 35 in 1981. Now, having just
years ago. When she started, she said. “But over time, I The more hair she that lasts longer than a hair- celebrated its 69th birth-
Gomez was nervous about became fine with it. They’re trimmed, the more con- cut can. day, the Air Force and its
some of the customers she just like any other customer. fidence she gained. Over Hanging from the walls Airmen couldn’t take pride
welcomed in and served. I love talking with them and many years, Gomez has are portraits of generals, in such a high standard of
“I remember very early in seeing their smile after they accumulated a massive list each one with a message of dress and appearance with-
my time here, I started cut- see the finished product. It of visitors. She left enough appreciation etched on it. out her and the hundreds of
ting the hair of some gen- is very satisfying. It’s why I of an impact for them to The earliest portrait dates dedicated barbers around the
erals; I was very nervous,” love what I do.” leave her with something back to 1983. Air Force.
Claudia Gomez, barber, shares a conversation with her customer, Airman 1st Class Hector Montoya, 721st Aerial Port
Squadron passenger service agent, Sept. 20 on Ramstein. Gomez believes in recreating a “close-to-home” atmosphere
with her shop and enjoys getting to know the people that come in and helping them feel comfortable.
Page 10 Kaiserslautern American September 30, 2016
86 AW Airmen take on Commander’s Challenge
Photo by Airman 1st Class Joshua Magbanua Photo by Staff Sgt. Sharida Jackson
Airmen assigned to the 86th Airlift Wing compete in a soccer game during the 2016 Commander’s Capt. Greg Ihlenberg, 76th Airlift Squadron C-21 evaluator pilot, participates in the home run
Challenge Sept. 23 on Ramstein. The Commander’s Challenge consisted of 15 sporting events derby during the Commander’s Challenge Sept. 23 on Ramstein. The Commander’s Challenge
that were intended to promote physical fitness and camaraderie. The events included soccer, also included basketball, softball, kickball, dodgeball, football, soccer and volleyball tourna-
basketball, flag football, dodgeball and tug of war, among other sports. ments.
Photo by Airman 1st Class Joshua Magbanua
Airmen assigned to the 86th Airlift Wing compete in a volleyball game Sept. 23 on Ramstein. The Photo by Staff Sgt. Sharida Jackson
2016 Commander’s Challenge aimed to promote camaraderie, sportsmanship and physical fit- Airmen participate in a kickball game during the Commander’s Challenge Sept. 23 on Ramstein.
ness through 15 different sporting events. The Commander’s Challenge gave Airmen a chance to The Commander’s Challenge gave Airmen the opportunity to build resilience and get out of the
connect with their colleagues from other units in friendly competition. office for friendly competition.
Photo by Staff Sgt. Sharida Jackson
Staff Sgt. Andrew Taylor, 86th Logistics Readiness Squadron fuels distribution supervisor, dives Photo by Airman 1st Class Joshua Magbanua
for the football during the Commander’s Challenge Sept. 23 on Ramstein. The Commander’s Airmen assigned to the 86th Airlift Wing participate in a softball game during the 2016
Challenge was part of the 86th Airlift Wing’s Resilience Day and also included basketball, soccer, Commander’s Challenge Sept. 23 on Ramstein. All 86 AW units were invited to attend the
tug-of-war, softball, volleyball and hula hoop events. Commander’s Challenge.