By Lance Cpl. Nicole Rogge Marine Corps Installations Pacific 1/25/2019 - MCAS FUTENMA — Marines assigned to Aircraft Rescue and Firefighting, Headquarters and Headquarters Squadron, conducted live-burn training Jan. 24 at Marine Corps Air Station Futenma. The training allowed Marines to practice utilizing their gear and working under pressure in a controlled environment. “This training specifically is supposed to simulate and fuel spill,” said Cpl. Riphlei Martinez, a P-19 vehicle handline operator with H&HS, MCAS Futenma. “If an aircraft crashes or has a fuel spill and the fuel spill ignites, this is what we would do if that were to happen.” Fuel spill fires can be unpredictable and becoming familiar with the procedures can make all the difference. “Here in Okinawa, training is important because we don’t get calls for very many emergency situations,” said Martinez. “We get new junior Marines every other month and for a lot of them this is their first fire or the first time they practice something that can actually happen.” This monthly training is part of the intense discipline it take to ensure ARFF Marines are ready for any situation that comes their way.
Marines with Aircraft Rescue and Firefighting (ARFF) use a hand line to extinguish a fuel fire Jan. 25, during live-burn training at Marine Corps Air Station Futenma.
(U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Nicole Rogge) Kadena Tax Center JMSDF VP-5 tours Tax Season is here!! Free tax preparation by trained volunteers is offered at the Kadena Tax Center, Bldg. 1460 on Wilkins Street, located behind Eagle VP-47 P-8A Poseidon Hardware. Lt. j.g. Matt Johnston, attached to the Tax Season Office Hours: Bring in the following required “Golden Swordsmen” of Patrol Squadron (VP) 47, speaks with Japan Maritime Self- - 5 - 8 February: Tues - Fri 0900-1130 documentation to complete your Tax Defense Force servicemembers attached & 1300-1400 (Drop off for simple Return: to Fleet Air Wing 5 during a tour of a P-8A returns only) - DOD/Military Identification card Poseidon, Kadena Air Base, Jan. 29. - 11 - 15 February: Mon - Fri 0900-1130 - Power of Attorney (if electronic filing & 1300-1400 (Drop off for simple on behalf of your spouse) returns only) - Social Security Card(s) - 18 February - 14 June: Mon - Fri - Bank Routing and Account Number(s) 0900-1130 & 1300-1400 (Drop off & - Form W-2 (from all employers); 1099- Appointments) R (from pensions and annuities) - Form 1099-INT (interest earned); - Mon, Tues & Wed 1500-1600 1099-DIV (dividends earned)* (Appointments are available for - Form 1099-B (Sale of stocks/mutual teachers only) funds)* - Closed for lunch daily at 1130-1300. - IRA contributions* - Closed Holidays and PACAF Family - Rental Property (includes total Days: 4, 18, 19 February & 27, 28 May. income, mortgage interest, taxes, insurance)* Appointments by - Child care cost/providers receipt* availability, call 634-7418 - Form 1098-T and Education related expenses* Don’t have time to wait? We - Foreign Employer’s information (name, offer a drop off service. Just address, amount earned)* bring in all your tax documents - Copy of your 2017 Federal and State and we will call you when your Income Tax Return tax return is ready for review. * If applicable
(U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Kevin A. Flinn) 2 SAMURAI GATE FEBRUARY 1, 2019 353rd353rd SpecialSpecial OperationsOperations GroupGroup performperform routineroutine maintenancemaintenance
A CV-22 Osprey assigned to the 353rd Special Operations Group Detachment 1 has maintenance performed during a maintenance phase, Jan. 14, at Yokota Air Base. A phase consists of preventive aircraft maintenance for mission safety.
By Senior Airman Juan Torres look at to make sure these aircraft are 374th Airlift Wing Public Affairs air-worthy,” said Master Sgt. Jin L. Yum, 1/24/2019 - YOKOTA AIR BASE, 353rd SOG CV-22 lead production Japan — Getting planes off the ground superintendent. “You check every is not an easy task. Through pain- component on the aircraft to make sure staking processes and meticulous they’re working properly. We’re checking procedures, Airmen from the 353rd everything to get these planes back up Special Operations Group Detachment 1 safely and on time.” perform maintenance on CV-22 Ospreys The CV-22s are thoroughly checked to keep the airframe flying. after 280 flight hours. It’s important the Their job, critical to a successful Airmen perform scheduled maintenance mission, involves inspecting every inch like these, enabling hundreds of of the aircraft through what is called flying hours of their mission-essential phase maintenance. Phase is a form of operations. preventive maintenance that identifies Their hard work and dedication potential problems before they arise and ensures the aircraft is ready to perform in increases the longevity of the aircraft. any real-world problem. Approximately 70 personnel work “These Airmen work harder than any around the clock assisting with this other,” said Yum. “I wouldn’t trade them (U.S. Air Force photos by Senior Airman Juan Torres) maintenance. for any other maintainer on any other Airmen assigned to the 353rd Special Operations Group Detachment 1, perform maintenance on a CV-22 “There are specific items we have to p l at for m .” Osprey, Jan. 15, at Yokota Air Base.
Published by Eight Co., Ltd. a private firm in no way connected with the U.S. Air Force, under exclusive written contract with the 18th Wing. The civilian en- terprise Air Force newspaper is an authorized publication for members of the U.S. military services overseas. Contents of Samurai Gate are not necessarily the official views of, or endorsed by, the U.S. government, the Department of Defense, the Department of the Air Force or Eight Co. Ltd. of the products or services advertised. The appearance of advertising in this publication, including inserts or supplements, does not constitute endorsement by the Depart- ment of Defense, the Department of the Air Force or Eight Co. Ltd. of the products or services advertised. Everything advertised in this publication shall be made available for purchase or patronage without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, marital status, physical handicap, political af- filiation or any other non-merit factor of the purchaser, user or patron. For commercial advertising, inquiry, send an email to [email protected] 18th Wing Public Affairs: [email protected] DSN:634-3813 FEBRUARY 1, 2019 SAMURAI GATE 3
509th Logistics Readiness Squadron fuel distribution operators from Whiteman Air Force Base, Missouri ,conduct a hot-pit refueling on a B-2 Spirit Bomber at Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam, Hawaii Jan. 22. Hot-pit refueling is a method of refueling an B-2 Spirit Bomber aircraft without shutting down the engines. Three B-2 bombers and more than 200 Airmen deployed here in support of U.S. Strategic Command’s Bomber Task Force mission. Bomber aircraft regularly rotate through the Indo-Pacific region to integrate gas and go capabilities with key regional partners and maintain a high state of aircrew proficiency.
(U.S. Air Force photo by Senior Airman Thomas Barley) U.S., Philippine Air Force Airmen exchange Egress ideas By Staff Sgt. Anthony Small Egress Airmen perform a full visual Pacific Air Forces public affairs Tech Sgt. Ed Edens, 113th inspection of the ejection system which Maintenance Squadron 1/28/2019 - CESAR BASA AIR BASE, includes the seat and cockpit components. Egress system mechanic, Philippines — U.S. Air Force members If anything is found broken or out of left, and Philippine Air from the 113th Maintenance Squadron technical data specifications, it’s the egress Force Tech. Sgt. Roderick participated in a subject matter expert technician’s job to ground the jet and pull Domingo, 430th Aircraft Maintenance Group exchange with Philippine Air Force 430th the seat to repair the defect prior to return- Egress system supervisor, Aircraft Maintenance Group Egress per- ing the aircraft to flying status. right, perform a visual sonnel, during the Bilateral Air Contingent Edens brings with him 17 years of ex- inspection of a U.S. Air Exchange-Philippines (BACE-P) at Cesar perience as a egress systems craftsman and Force F-16 Fighting Falcon Basa Air Base, Philippines, Jan. 22. has experienced emergency situations. during the Bilateral Air Contingent Exchange- “Subject matter expert exchanges are “I’ve experienced ejections in the past, Philippines (BACE-P) at an important way for us to learn [from] and the first thing that goes through my Cesar Basa Air Base, and teach our counterparts from partner mind, is did the pilot survive,” Edens Philippines, Jan. 22. nations,” said U.S. Air Force Tech. Sgt. explained. “Job satisfaction comes from Ed Edens, 113th Maintenance Squadron ensuring the pilots are safe and we did our egress systems mechanic. “It’s especially jobs well.” important for egress when you have to be Philippine Air Force Tech. Sgt. Roder- (U.S. Air Force photo by Staff Sgt. Anthony Small) on top of your job because we can’t [ops] ick Domingo, 430th Aircraft Maintenance good to talk with other egress members.” part of the seventh iteration of BACE-P test our system. Everything that we do has Group Egress systems craftsman, has 21 Although ejections are rare, aircrews established by U.S. Pacific Command to be perfect.” years of experience taking care of exit sys- members must be able to rely on the egress and executed by Headquarters Pacific Egress is otherwise known as the “last tems that guide pilots safely to the ground Airmen’s skill and dedication to help Air Forces. These exchanges provide the chance for life.” The ejection seat itself is the in case of an emergency. ensure their safe return when met with a opportunity for U.S. and Philippine air last option for an aircrew member when it “The exchange is a good opportunity worst-case scenario. When all else fails, forces to share best practices and deepen comes to surviving an unexpected aircraft to see the difference between [our two egress prevails. professional understanding and relation- or mechanical emergency. nations’] systems,” said Domingo. “It’s also The subject matter expert exchange is ships. 4 SAMURAI GATE FEBRUARY 1, 2019 Weapon grade vision NCG-1 Commodore from laser precision Visits NMCB-3
A patient receives small incision lenticule extraction treatment at the (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Michael Lopez) Joint Warfighter Refractive Surgery Capt. David McAlister, commodore of Naval Construction Group 1, speaks with Cmdr. Joseph Harder, Center, Wilford Hall Ambulatory commanding officer of NMCB-3, about the condition of civil engineering support equipment during McAlister’s Surgical Center, Jan. 15. visit to NMCB-3’s main body component onboard Camp Shields, Jan. 24. (U.S. Air Force photo by Airman 1st Class Ryan Mancuso) By Master Sgt. between WHASC and Brooke Army It makes them more functional and safer.” [you’re] a lot more confident on performing Corenthia K. Fennell Medical Center, the only Joint Warfighter Glasses are prone to fogging, scratching, your mission.” 59th Medical Wing Public Affairs Refractive Surgery Center was established and breakage and in a deployed environ- It is the only optical surgical procedure 1/28/2019 - JOINT BASE SAN ANTO- in 2003. ment, replacement is difficult. Additionally, available which enhances the human weap- NIO-LACKLAND, Texas — Surgeons at Vision correction in the forward de- wearing contact lenses in conditions where on system to make the warfighter more Wilford Hall’s Joint Warfighter Refractive ployed environment has long presented adequate contact lens hygiene is not pos- functional in a deployed environment. Surgery Center performed the center’s challenges to the warfighter. sible increases risks of sight-threatening Refractive surgery is available to anyone 50,000th refractive surgery, Jan. 15, 2019. Glasses and inserts functionally limits infections. who is eligible for Active Duty medical ben- Former Air Force Surgeon General, Lt. military personnel working with chemical Over 99 percent of refractive surgery pa- efits, to include activated Reserve personnel. Gen. Paul K. Carlton, established the USAF gear, night vision goggles, heads up displays, tients achieve 20/40 vision or better — the “Refractive surgery can open the door to Warfighter Refractive Surgery Program periscopes, explosive ordnance device legal limit to drive without correction and members doing things they wouldn’t be able in 1995 and initial laser treatments were protective equipment, and even basic eye more than 95 percent of patients achieve to do otherwise such as apply for aviation performed at Wilford Hall Medical Center protection. 20/20 vision or better. or Special Forces,” said Caldwell. “The goal in a back room of the ophthalmology de- “For the warfighter, being able to see “I had PRK surgery ten months before is to ensure our whole warfighting machine partment. clearly in the critical moment can be the I deployed,” said Capt. Matthew Nichols, functions better, independent of what [ser- In 2000, the first Air Force Warfighter difference between life and death,” said Lt. executive officer to the director of the Air vice specific] uniform anyone wears.” Refractive Surgery Center officially opened Col. (Dr.) Matthew Caldwell, 59th Medical Force civil engineering service. “Prior Being recognized as one of the premier at Wilford Hall as the central headquar- Wing chairman of ophthalmology depart- to surgery, if I used glasses it [felt] like I refractive surgical centers in the DOD, ters of the AF program with subsequent ment. “For me as an eye surgeon deployed couldn’t see anything out of my periph- Wilford Hall Joint Warfighter Refractive laser centers opening at six additional AF to Afghanistan, not being reliant on glasses eral and I used peripheral vision a decent Surgery Center has trained and certified medical centers; Travis AFB, the Air Force was a huge benefit, but for so many others amount on this last deployment. The biggest more than 150 refractive surgeons as well Academy, Keesler AFB, Wright-Patterson who are actually out on the front lines with [positive] is on convoys, when you can see as hundreds of co-managing optometrists, AFB, Andrews AFB, and Elmendorf AFB. their lives at risk, the benefit of refractive your environment, it makes you feel a little having global impact in the eye care com- Through a memorandum of agreement surgery is much greater than convenience. more comfortable going down the road and munity. FEBRUARY 1, 2019 SAMURAI GATE 5
prove the overall health of beneficiaries. WRNMMC’s outpatient nutrition clinic offers both one-on-one, group New Year, New You appointments and even virtual means to By Mark Oswell to sustain the changes,” Khan furthered. about the choices.” help beneficiaries develop a healthy plan Walter Reed National Military Medical Center “These decisions cost the individual Khan, who admits to occasionally to meet their health goals. 1/28/2019 — Every January, thousands substantially on quality of life,” continued indulging in a single-serving piece of “Over the last year we launched of people make personal pacts to improve Khan. “The problem is that it is hard to chocolate, explains that she would never our Virtual-Nutrition program which their lives over the coming year – workout convince individuals to change behavior recommend cutting a food out complete- allows our beneficiaries to participate in more; catch up with old friends; watch now, knowing that they won’t feel the ly from an individual’s diet. nutrition programs through video chat less TV… and of course, make better food negative health effects of their behaviors She recommends reducing high cal- so we have worked very closely with the choices. until much later in life.” orie, low nutrient foods such as sweets, VirtualHealth program to manage this According to a Defense Health Agency Diet is just part of the equation. The candy, soda, etc., and increasing fruits, program effectively,” Khan explained. 13-year perspective study, combined other piece is exercise. “When a person is vegetables and fiber. “We never really “Our dining facility offers healthy overweight and obesity, which is a Body getting back into a routine, consistency is get enough of these in our diet and they choices to help our beneficiaries make Mass Index of greater than 25 percent for one of the most important things to start have some great properties that all of our the right choice, such as Fit and Flavorful military personnel, increased from 50.6 off with,” added Travis Combest, clinical bodies could benefit from.” and our Salad bar,” added the Army ma- percent in 1995 to 60.8 percent in 2008. exercise physiologist in WRNMMC’s jor. “Our research programs are designed “The military population is just a “slice Nutrition Services Department. Exercise to move the science forward, giving ben- of the American pie,” explained Army Not having achievable goals is one “Exercise in conjunction with good eficiaries an opportunity to participate in Maj. Joetta Khan, deputy director for of the major points of failure, Khan and eating habits are essential for a healthy nutrition-related research to develop the Walter Reed National Military Medical Combest explained. “For example, some- lifestyle,” explained Combest. “Exercise best programs moving forward so that we Center’s Nutrition Services Department. one might say they want to get back to helps you feel emotionally and physically can ensure we are preventing long-term “Most people develop their habits when their high school weight, but that was 20 better and stronger. It also makes you chronic illness.” they are young and it becomes very dif- years, a marriage, two kids and two careers feel more energetic to engage in more According to Khan and other nutri- ficult to break those habits as we age. The ago,” said Khan. “A more realistic goal activities, like hiking in your free time.” tionists, long-term impacts of making generation that is coming of age to serve might be to lose one or two pounds per “Simple things like walking for 20 to poor nutrition choices may include now, grew up in a digital world, with less week to reach a total goal of 15 pounds.” 30 minutes a day for three days a week, cardiovascular disease, Type 2 diabetes, time outside [and] less exercising. Many To avoid, this and continue with any and stretching your muscles can be a morbid obesity, renal failure and other of them grew up in more dense urban resolutions well past the beginning of the starting point,” he added. negative health effects. areas that might have been considered year, Khan recommends to “Start small, Combest shared some tips to staying In the exercise area, Combest offers ‘food deserts’ (areas lacking in options for set manageable goals and reward yourself motivated beyond the New Year’s reso- office appointments and assessment for fruits/vegetables), and all of these play a for making those small changes. This will lution. “Make exercise a priority in your body composition, strength, endurance, role in what they choose to do and eat. enable the individual to keep the momen- day and week. Make yourself accountable exercise planning and programming. In “As an Army dietitian, my goal is tum going.” by tracking your exercise or having an addition, he conducts follow-up appoint- always to meet the person where they are exercise buddy. Identify those barriers ments to evaluate an individual’s form, and help them strategize a way to make Healthy Eating and seek out support from an exercise techniques and progression. healthier choices related to their nutri- Cost and convenience are the top two physiologist or registered dietitian to Combest summed up his philosophy tion, exercise and overall health habits,” excuses that Khan hears from service assist you with exercise and nutrition on the importance of maintaining good Khan explained. “This takes time and members as to why they fail to maintain goals.” health, “The cost of poor personal health depending on the person’s background, it healthy diets. is potential poor quality of life for your- can be an extensive process to get them to ‘I don’t’ have enough time to shop or At Walter Reed Bethesda self and those who love you. It impacts make the changes and then to sustain the cook healthy food,’ and ‘It is just easier The WRNMC Nutrition Services your ability to be productive at work and changes,” she added. to grab something on the go,’ are some Department has dietitians in multiple at home. Taking care of your body by be- One of the major pitfalls as to why diets of the barriers that Khan helps people to clinics, including Nephrology, General ing more physically active and selecting fail is “jumping in with both feet, chang- overcome. “The reality is there are healthy Surgery, Oncology and others, as well healthy meal options is something you ing too much at once and not being able convenient foods as well, so again it is all as Combest’s expertise in exercise to im- can control for your own well-being.”
By Sgt. Jessica Collin understand UAS operations are prohibited Marine Corps Installations Pacific aboard MCIPAC installations. MCIPAC-MCB Camp Butler Order 1/25/2019 - CAMP FOSTER — Marine If you see UAS use aboard MCI- Corps Installations Pacific-Marine Corps PAC-MCBB installations, you should re- Base Camp Butler has issued MCI- port it to PMO immediately. This includes 3000.1: Unmanned Aircraft Systems PAC-MCB Camp Butler Order 3000.1 to intrusions from outside the fence line or ensure the safety and security of military suspicious operations near base perimeters, personnel and facilities amidst the in- restricted airspace and sensitive facilities. creasing popularity of Unmanned Aircraft Service members who fail to follow this Systems. order may be held accountable through ad- UAS are defined as any airplane, ministrative action or the Uniform Code of rotorcraft, glider, or airship that does not Military Justice. Civilian personnel may be carry people. They may be controlled subject to adverse administrative remedies independently or remotely by an operator or even face denial of access to MCIPAC or programmed autopilot and are either installations. purchased or constructed. If you plan to use your UAS off-base, Your personal UAS must be registered ensure you comply with all U.S. and Host with the Installation Provost Marshal Nation rules, guidelines and regulations. Office. The UAS’ serial number and Failure to do so may result in criminal various features will be recorded and you sanctions by the U.S. government or Host will sign an acknowledgement stating you Nation laws. 6 SAMURAI GATE FEBRUARY 1, 2019 FEBRUARY 1, 2019 SAMURAI GATE 7
Builder 3rd Class Fernando Gonzalez, assigned to Naval Mobile Construction Battalion (NMCB) 3, clamps the ends of Seabees metal roof panels for the construction of a k-span structure onboard Camp top off Shields, Jan. 23.
k-span (U.S. Navy photos by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Michael Lopez) Seabees assigned to Naval Mobile Construction Battalion (NMCB) 3 feed sheet metal into an Ultimate Building Machine to create roof panels for the construction of a k-span structure onboard Camp Shields, Jan. 23.
Builder Constructionman Apprentice Gabrielle Overhultz, assigned to Naval Mobile Construction Battalion (NMCB) 3, marks the center point of a metal roof panel to be used for the construction of a k-span structure onboard Camp Shields, Jan. 23. NMCB-3 gives back to community, wins Navy-wide community service awards By Petty Officer 2nd Class Good Neighbor Community Service Michael Lopez Flagship Award, which recognizes the best Naval Mobile Construction Battalion 3 year-round volunteer supported programs 1/24/2019 - CAMP SHIELDS — Naval or special project that promotes outreach Mobile Construction Battalion (NMCB) activities throughout the year to establish 3 was awarded three Navy-wide unit and restore hope to the community by en- community service awards in the large couraging humanitarian assistance to the sea going command category for their least fortunate. The command also earned volunteer efforts throughout 2018. this award for the previous two years. Seventy-five percent of the Seabees The third award, the Navy Commu- assigned to NMCB-3 volunteered nity Service Environmental Stewardship throughout 2018, contributing to over Flagship Award, highlights commands 1,330 hours of community service at 19 that exhibit strong commitment to envi- different events while at their homeport in ronmental stewardship through volunteer Port Hueneme, Calif., and while deployed service projects. This is second consecu- Cmdr. Joseph Harder, commanding officer of Naval throughout the Indo-Pacific Region. tive year NMCB-3 has earned the award. Mobile Construction Battalion (NMCB) 3, announces the battalion’s selection for three 2018 Navy-wide “I look at the response rate of our NMCB-3 aims to build lasting partner- unit community service awards during command volunteers as an indication of their value ships with local non-profit organizations quarters onboard Camp Shields, Jan. 24. for what we have individually, and recog- and city governments to provide mean- nizing that were are in a place where we ingful volunteer efforts that add vitality (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Michael Lopez) can make a difference by giving away our to the community. The command uses the Indo-Pacific. youth centers throughout the region. time for the benefit of others,” said Cmdr. small-unit leadership by empowering vol- “The fact that we’ve earned these “These awards represent what any Joseph Harder, commanding officer of unteer representatives to lead and spread awards means that we have Sailors that anonymous Seabee at NMCB-3 is doing NMCB-3. “The command has a climate the word about volunteer opportunities are not only committed to the mission of to go above and beyond outside of their that helps Seabees understand that just to maximize participation where Seabees responding to our nation’s call to combat responsibilities of coming to work and you being an American and serving your can use their time and talents to improve and provide humanitarian assistance, doing their job for the Navy,” said Harder. country with the character and heart you their neighborhoods, communities, and but are also committed to the mission of “They represent the very strong culture have, you have things to put out there to the relationships with the people they connecting to communities both locally of Seabees trying to give back and make benefit America’s youth, and skills to go impact. and in foreign nations,” said Jones. circumstances better for others who need out there and build houses and clinics and “One major aspect of our commanding The Seabees routinely volunteered at a help getting there. They represent an do rehabilitation projects for people who officer’s command philosophy is that of local Port Hueneme Boys and Girls Club opportunity for every one of our Seabees don’t have the means to get it done on building character,” said Lt. Larry Jones, to tutor children in science, technology, who feel like they have the ability and their own.” the command chaplain and community engineering, and mathematics subjects, desire to contribute to something bigger The command was awarded the 2018 relations program leader. “I believe that cleared over 600lbs of trash from the local than themselves, and volunteering gives Personal Excellence Partnership Flagship volunteerism is a very important way to beaches, helped build five homes for fam- them an outlet to do so.” Award for Community Service. The demonstrate character building because ilies in need with Habitat for Humanity, NMCB-3 is forward deployed through- award is given annually to commands it calls for one to sacrifice and to put the and volunteered at local food banks and out the Indo-Pacific region and United that go above and beyond to participate in needs of others as a priority even it's for a women’s shelters. The Seabees participated States ready to support major combat community service activities that promote few hours at a time.” in several community and beach cleanups operations, theater security, humanitarian academics, life skills and civic education The Seabees’ efforts have impacted throughout the Indo-Pacific, clearing over assistance and disaster relief operations. for youth. NMCB-3 has also earned the over 3,300 members of the Port Hueneme, 700lbs of trash and debris, volunteered at Seabees provide general engineering and award for the previous two years. Calif. area community and over 1,800 homeless shelters, and tutored and played civil support to Navy, Marine Corps and NMCB-3 was also awarded the Project members of the communities throughout games with over 1,800 children at local joint operational forces globally. 8 SAMURAI GATE FEBRUARY 1, 2019 Marine aids in rescue of woman, receives award Rescue from town mayor Hoist Training
An MV-22B Osprey aircraft assigned to Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron (VMM) 363, hoists U.S. Marine Corps Lt. Col. Brian Clifton, commanding officer, VMM-363, during Rescue Hoist Training off the shore of Marine Corps Base Hawaii, Jan. 24. The purpose of this training is to enhance evacuation capabilities of personnel utilizing the MV-22B Osprey in the event of a military or civilian mishap at sea. The ability to hoist stranded individuals from the water with tiltrotor aircraft provides additional life-saving response options for Hawaii-based Marine’s and the III Marine Expeditionary Force. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Hannah Hall) Maj. William Easter, left, a theatre security cooperation officer with III Marine Expeditionary Force, receives a letter of appreciation from Masaharu Noguni, the Mayor of Chatan, right, at the Chatan Town Office, Jan. 22. Mayor Noguni presented Easter with the award for aiding in the rescue of a pregnant woman who was a quarter of a mile away from the shoreline struggling to swim ashore. Official explains federal tax changes for military, spouses By Jim Garamone Members of the armed forces are still Department of Defense Public Affairs able to deduct their unreimbursed mov- 1/28/2019 - WASHINGTON — Most ing expenses incurred during permanent service members and their families will change of station moves, he said. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Sgt. Jesus Sepulveda Torres) see a reduction in their tax bills this year, There are changes to deductions for but there are a number of changes in U.S. travel to drill for reservists. “Reservists federal tax laws that they need to be aware cannot take deductions for drill duty ex- of, said Army Lt. Col. Dave Dulaney, ex- penses that are under 100 miles,” he said. ecutive director of the Pentagon’s Armed Those driving more than 100 miles can Forces Tax Council. still take deductions. “The last tax year has been quite excit- ing with all the changes that were made,” Military Spouses Dulaney said. He noted that the Internal For military spouses there is a sig- Revenue Service will start accepting tax nificant change as part of the Veterans returns Jan. 28 for tax year 2018. Benefits and Transition Act of 2018. “This A number of pieces of legislation affect allows military spouses to elect to use their military taxpayers, he said: The Tax Cuts service member’s state of legal residence and Jobs Act, the Veterans Benefits and for state and local taxes,” he said. Transition Act and the Combat-Injured In the past a spouse may have had to Veterans Tax Fairness Act are just a few. file a different state tax return because they had split legal residences. For example, if a Tax Cuts for Troops service member with a legal residence of The Tax Cuts and Jobs Act will mean New York moved to Virginia and married that most service members will see a a person with a legal residence from that reduction in federal taxes for 2018, he state. said. There is an overall reduction of three “Now, our military spouses can now percent for most military families under elect to use the legal residence of the mil- this act, Dulaney said, in addition, the itary member for purposes of filing their standard deduction doubled, as did the state and local taxes,” Dulaney said. “Now Child Tax Credit. “Because of these three military couples will no longer have to file things, most of our military families are different state tax returns. Additionally' going to see a substantial reduction in it will reduce the overall tax burden for overall tax liability,” he said. military families.” There are also some special provisions that apply to military personnel. Service Injured Troops members who served in the Sinai Penin- Finally, the Combat-Injured Veterans sula since June 9, 2015, are now eligible for Tax Fairness Act has been implemented the combat zone tax exclusion, the colonel for veterans who received disability sever- said. ance pay and had tax withholding applied “This was retroactively applied and to the pay. “Now under the tax code, what that means is that since taxpayers disability severance pay is not taxable have up to three years to file an amended under certain situations,” he said. More tax return to make a claim for refund, than 133,000 veterans who have received those service members who served in the this pay are eligible for relief under the act. Sinai back in 2015 would be eligible to file The vets have until July to file for a an amended tax return, and they need to refund. do it quickly,” he said. There are a number of aids for military Service members with questions personnel and their families as they pre- should go to their local tax assistance pare their taxes. Each base has a Volunteer centers, Dulaney said, noting that this Income Tax Assistance Program office change should affect about 2,000 service that will help. To find your local office, members. visit Military OneSource. FEBRUARY 1, 2019 SAMURAI GATE 9 U.S. and Royal Thai Army soldiers U.S. Marines and Sailors and JGSDF begin bilateral exercise Soldiers practice realistic combat Thai Army confident in our solid medical training during Iron Fist partnership and commitment to support each other,” said Col. Leo Wyszynski, the 1-2 Stryker Bri- gade Combat Team commander. “Our Soldiers are ready to train hard and perform well. I know that Royal Thai Army armored personnel carriers they will make the most from this display Thai and U.S. flags, Jan. 28, during amazing training opportunity.” the Hanuman Guardian opening ceremony at This is an excellent opportunity Camp Nimman Kolayut, Thailand. for U.S. Soldiers, many of whom (U.S. Army photo by Staff Sgt. Samuel Northrup) have not been outside of the By Staff Sgt. collaboration between our nations United States before, to work with Samuel Northrup to achieve effective solutions to foreign militaries, learn about U.S. Army Pacific Public Affairs Office common challenges,” said Brig. different cultures, and understand 1/29/2019 - CAMP NIMMAN Gen. Andrew Preston, the Deputy the important relationships the KOLAYUT, Thailand — Soldiers Commanding General - Support Army has with other militaries, with the U.S. Army and Royal Thai for 25th Infantry Division. “I know Wyszynski said. The skills that Army officially began this year’s we’re about to roll-up our sleeves, they grow there will benefit them Hanuman Guardian training ex- work together, train and learn throughout their career. ercise with an opening ceremony from one another — developing The training involves aviation (U.S. Marine Corps photos by Cpl. Cutler Brice) held Jan. 28, at Camp Nimmanko- our readiness and interoperability assets, counter-IED tactics, med- ^U.S. Marines and Sailors assigned to 1st Marine Logistics Group and Japan Ground Self- layut, Thailand. capabilities vital to the security of ical training and subject matter Defense Force Soldiers with 1st Amphibious Rapid Deployment Regiment, Move simulated This year’s training involved the Pacific region.” expert exchanges. Soldiers will casualties to a MV-22B Osprey tiltrotor aircraft for medical evacuation training during Iron Fist, approximately 800 U.S. Army Hanuman Guardian 19 practice bilateral long-range fires Jan. 22 on U.S. Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, CA. Exercise Iron Fist is an annual, Soldiers operating under U.S. provides opportunities for profes- integration, practice mechanized multilateral training exercise where U.S. and Japanese service members train together and Army Pacific Command and ap- sional exchanges that strengthen and wheeled infantry capabilities, share techniques, tactics and procedures to improve their combined operational capabilities. proximately 900 Royal Thai Army military partnership through and exercise logistics to determine U.S. Navy ^ soldiers with the Headquarters shared learning and training. Staff compatibility between the U.S. Corpsmen of 2nd Infantry Division and members will practice their func- Army and the Royal Thai Army. assigned to the 12 Infantry Regiment. The tions at the battalion level with a “This comprehensive training 1st Marine training is designed to enhance combined arms operations sce- will further enhance our two Logistics Group treat military-to-military partnerships, nario. A field training exercise will nations’ partnership and ability a simulated interoperability and mission read- involve platoon and squad-level to work together to meet chal- casualty in iness. elements from each nation honing lenges in the region,” said Preston. the Shock “Building on the success of past fundamental warfighting skills to “The important relationships, Trauma evolutions of Exercise Hanuman enhance interoperability. interoperability, and combined Platoon tent during Iron Guardian, this ninth iteration “We expect to emerge from capabilities needed to succeed in Fist, Jan. 22. continues its focus on increasing the exercise better trained than such an endeavor are built during readiness, interoperability and we arrived and to leave the Royal exercises like this.” 10 SAMURAI GATE FEBRUARY 1, 2019
To submit an announcement for the base bulletin, please visit www.kadena.af.mil NO FEDERAL ENDORSEMENT OF PRIVATE ORGANIZATIONS OR ACTIVITIES IS INTENDED. NOTICES offered on a sign-up basis. This means that 18th Wing Equal Opportunity Partial Road Closure WIC Overseas Hiring Opportunity everyone planning to use Tuition Assistance Do you face concerns of unlawful Road Closure for portion of FH Smith Dr. The Camp Foster/ Kadena Air Base benefits for any classes this year will need discrimination or sexual harassment? If from intersection of Schreiber Ave to Bldg. Women, Infants & Children Overseas to register to ensure enrollment eligibility. so, Kadena Air Base leadership maintains 3135 until 31 Mar., 2020. Program is in need of Japanese translators. The cutoff date to sign up is January 11th, a strict “zero-tolerance” policy pertaining The job requires a high school diploma or 2019. These changes were necessary to to discriminatory behavior. If you feel you 2019 Total Air Force Sexual Assault equivalent with secretarial/business office ensure the continuation of this valuable are being unlawfully discriminated against, and Suicide Prevention experience or education. Must be proficient benefit for our Airmen while still managing to include sexual harassment, take action. The 2019 Total Air Force Sexual Assault and in Japanese as well as English. Job a fiscally-balanced approach in our current We encourage members to use the chain Suicide Prevention Program is coming your Requirements include a working knowledge resource constrained environment.If you do of command first to resolve issues at the way. New classes, New Curriculum, New of office equipment and excellent customer not sign up by the cutoff date you will forfeit lowest level. However, you can also contact Materials, and a New Team for 2019. For service skills. Must be a U.S Citizen. For your Tuition Assistance benefit for all of this the EO office at 634-2571 to set up an more information contact your WG/CSVP – consideration, please e-mail your resume year (2019). Even if you don’t plan on using appointment; or you may visit our office. MSgt Jennifer G. Malone @ 634-4870 and cover letter to: [email protected] Tuition Assistance this year, it is still highly Please note that the EO office will not accept or fax to: (210) 525-1398 or you may mail recommended that you sign up. Follow the a Formal Complaint more than 60 calendar 2019 Active Duty & Dependent your information to the address: Choctaw link below to sign up. days for military and 45 calendar days for Scholarships Staffing Solutions civilian complaints after the alleged offense The Air Force Association has announced Attn: WIC Overseas INFORMATION occurred without sufficient justification. scholarships for 2019 that are available to 70 NE Loop 410, Suite 400 San Antonio, TX Road Closures active duty members and their dependents. 78216 1. Portions of Omaha Ave will be closed Kadena and Camp Foster Questions can be emailed to scholarships@ on Feb 1 to construct AFSOC airfield Emergency Numbers afa.org. For more information please Kadena Base Library Closure pavement. This closure is permanent as Kadena Fire Emergency Services reminds visit https://www.afa.org/education/ Kadena Base Library will be closed on airfield pavements are to be constructed everyone to program their cell phones scholarships. Feb 17 for the Okinawa Marathon and on over the existing road area. The fire training with the emergency numbers. To report an Feb 18 for the federal holiday. During this site will remain accessible from Omaha Ave. emergency on Kadena via cell, dial 098- President’s Volunteer Service time, the online library resources will still Traffic will be redirected through Pease Rd 934-5911, and from an office phone, dial Awards be accessible via the library’s card catalog, and Stethem St. with detour signs posted 911. For Camp Foster via cell, dial 098-911- The Kadena Airman and Family Readiness which is linked from the Kadena FSS web on site. 1911, or from an office phone, dial 911. Center is an official certifying organization site, and via the AF Portal under the “Library 2. Stalhecker Street will be closed as of for the Presidential Volunteer Service & Resources” tab. Feb 1 to allow construction of new road AADD: We Get You Home Safe Award (PVSA). Eligible volunteers can (Stalhecker extension) providing access to Did you drink tonight? Made a plan but it’s track and submit service hours at www. TA Email Scam Alert this area of base. Anticipated opening for falling through? Can’t catch a cab? If any presentialserviceawards.gov (ROS key It’s been reported that AF members are the extended Stalhecker Street is Nov 1. of this applies to you, call AADD. Don’t risk for Kadena: SND-6354). Volunteer hours being targeted by the scam email below. 3. The construction area will be barricaded it all, when you can get a ride home for earned between January 01 and December The link is connected to an Amazon cloud with temporary fences and the contractor free. To contact AADD from a cell phone 31, 2018 must be submitted on the website account. Note: There are NO changes to will be setting road closure and detour number, dial 098-961-1110 and ask for the by January 31, 2019 to be certified for an TA policies/procedures. Here is an example signs redirecting traffic. USO, or dial DSN: 634-3889. We’re open award (Bronze, Silver, Gold or lifetime of the scam email: Fridays and Saturdays at the USO (gate 2) achievement) to be presented at the From: [email protected] Visitor Control Center Webpage from 2200 to 0100 and we’re here to help. Annual Volunteer Recognition Ceremony Sent: Monday, January 7, 2019 3:02 PM The 18 Security Forces Pass and If you have any questions and/or concerns, on April 12, 2019. For group submissions, To: ROMERO, JORGE M MSgt USAF USAFE Registration Webpage is now live. please email our Org Box or contact us on contact the Volunteer Coordinator. For 31 LRS/LGRV
(U.S. Air National Guard photo by Senior Airman Crystal Housman) By Thunderbirds Release professionalism of our nation’s 660,000 Houston. 1/24/2019 - NELLIS AIR FORCE BASE, Total Force Airmen to football fans The Thunderbirds’ team is composed Nev. — The United States Air Force Air around the world.” of eight pilots, four support officers, Demonstration Squadron Thunderbirds The Thunderbirds’ flyover, its first 120 enlisted Airmen and three civilians are scheduled to conduct a flyover during public event in 2019, will feature six F-16 serving in 28 Air Force job specialties. the national anthem performance at Su- Fighting Falcons, soaring over the Mer- In 2019, the Thunderbirds are scheduled per Bowl LIII, Feb. 3, over Mercedes-Benz cedes-Benz Stadium at the moment the to perform at 65 air shows in 33 different Stadium, Atlanta. final notes of The Star Spangled Banner locations all over the world. “Supporting this event is a tremendous are sung. They will take off for the Super Since the unit’s inception in 1953, more honor for the team and the U.S. Air Force,” Bowl LIII flyover from Dobbins Air Re- than 300 million people in all 50 states and said Lt. Col. John Caldwell, Thunderbirds serve Base, Marietta, Georgia. 60 countries have witnessed the distinc- commander and leader. “We look forward The Thunderbirds last flew over the tive red, white and blue jets in thousands to showcasing the pride, precision and Super Bowl in 2017 at the NRG Stadium, of official aerial demonstrations.