Health Sports Season change Footballers dash can lead to for base depression, championship Page A-10 Page B-1 www.jber.af.mil/news ARCTIC WARRIOR Volume 2, No. 43 Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson October 28, 2011 Chairman of Joint Chiefs visits JBER Army Gen. Martin Dempsey delivers message of hope to Alaska military community in uncertain times

By Luke Waack JBER Public Affairs Courtesy graphic Army Gen. Martin Dempsey, 18th Chair- man of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, landed at include courage, resilience, resolve, commit- Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson Tuesday ment, teamwork and most important – trust,” with a message of hope for the Alaska mili- the chairman continued. tary community. Dempsey used the example of an Alaska The newly appointed chairman held a pararescueman serving town hall meeting in an aircraft hangar with in Afghanistan to illustrate how important more than 600 service members, family trusting one another is to success in the members and civilians. future. The uniformed personnel were made up “What gets me through the day is you,” of active-duty, Guard and Reserve Airmen, Dempsey said. “You’ve been through a lot Marines, Sailors and Soldiers, as well as tougher stuff than what we’re going to face members of the Coast Guard, all of whom in the next couple years.” work, train and deploy from JBER. Dempsey spoke of Silver Star nominee “Just think of who you are and what Alaska Air National Guard Master Sgt. you’ve done,” Dempsey said. “I came on Roger Sparks, of the 212th Rescue Squadron, active duty right after Vietnam. In the late 176th Wing, hanging off of a cable in the 80s, we were thinking about ‘I wonder if middle of a fire fight off of the sheer edge of a we can really do what we say we can do, I mountain in the Hindu Kush in Afghanistan. wonder if we have courage. I wonder if our “Why is he hanging off that cable,” families have resilience.’” Dempsey asked. “Not for himself. He’s The 18th Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, Army Gen. Martin Dempsey addresses Service members and families can be hanging off that cable because he un- Soldiers, Airmen, Sailors, Marines and civilians at a town hall meeting in hangar 20 proud of what they’ve accomplished over derstands, if we trust each other and on Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson, Tuesday. More than 600 military and civilian the last 10 years of conflict, Dempsey said. we care about each other we can get members listened to Dempsey’s goals and challenges for service members and asked “You know who you are and what you’ve questions of the military’s top general. (U.S. Air Force photo/Staff Sgt. Zachary Wolf) done and you know the qualities you have to See Chairman, Page A-3

$370K $333K $296K $259K $222K $185K $148K $111K

$74K Senior Airman Richard Wright, 673d Security Forces Squadron, Visitor Control Center technician, inputs data for Bruce Jordan, a contractor who requires freqent base access, into the new DBIDS system. (U.S. Air Force photo/Luke Waack) $37K DBIDS registration continues, deadline draws closer By JBER Public Affairs biometrics are in the system. Tech. Sgt. Mark Centeno, 673d Se- News release DBIDS is already in use at military loca- curity Forces Squadron, Base Access tions around the world. noncommissioned officer-in-charge. DBIDS is a Department of Defense The 673d Security Forces Squadron has Registering with DBIDS is some- identity verification and force protection registered more than 20,000 ID cardholders thing all those requiring frequent tool which uses barcodes and biometrics so far, but there are approximately 60,000 recurring JBER access will have to do, (a person’s height and weight, eye color service members and civilians who require Centeno said. and fingerprints) along with a color pho- frequent access to Joint Base Elmendorf- Due to the large number of people As of Oct. 21, Joint Base Elmendorf- tograph to identify cardholders. Richardson. requiring regular base access, registra- Richardson had raised $29,482 toward It is directly connected with the De- Those not registered should get pro- tion will be conducted in four phases. the 2011 JBER Combined Federal Cam- fense Enrollment Eligibility Reporting cessed into the Defense Biometric Identifi- Phase 1 began for non-Common paign goal of $370,000. Call the U.S. System to ensure the most up to date cation System. Access Card carrying contractors and Army Alaska CFC coordinator at 384- information regarding enrolled person- Biometrics for DBIDS will consist of 0995, the rep at 551-9035 or nel, lost or stolen identification cards and a photo and two fingerprints, according to See DBIDS, Page A-10 the 673d Air Base Wing rep at 552-1060.

(U.S. Air Force graphic/Luke Waack)

PERMIT NO. 220 NO. PERMIT Index Honor Guard visits school

ANCHORAGE, AK ANCHORAGE, 90th AMU wins load test...... A-2 The Joint Base Elmendorf- PAID Inspector general Q&A...... A-2 Richardson Honor Guard National flag etiquette...... A-5 visited Abbott Elementary

School Oct. 18 to demon-

U.S. POSTAGE U.S. Briefs and announcements...... A-9 strate proper flag folding PRESORTED STANDARD PRESORTED Domestic violence prevention...... B-1 techniques and instruct children on how to display Installation recycling...... B-1 the proper respects to Old Energy conservation...... B-2 Glory, Page A-5 A-2 Arctic Warrior October 28, 2011 Airmen win weapons crew test with zero defects has the best score wins,” Bohan- 90th Aircraft non said. Teams prepared diligently for Maintenance the competition, Bohannon said. “We spent many nights prac- Unit wins tice loading outside in the cold and staying late many nights to make quarterly load sure that we could get the practice in that we needed to ensure that we would succeed in this load compe- competition tition,” Beversdorf said. Armament Airmen carry the ‘flawlessly’ 2w1, and By Luke Waack are assigned to each F-22 aircraft JBER Public Affairs maintenance unit. “In addition to loading the Third Wing F-22 Raptor weap- weapons on the airplane the load ons crews at Joint Base Elmendorf- team members had to take a writ- Richardson competed in the 3rd ten exam beforehand and they Wing’s quarterly load competition were subject to a (AFI 36) 2903 Oct. 21. dress and appearance inspection,” The 90th Aircraft Maintenance Bohannon said. Unit and the 525th Aircraft Mainte- The competition was difficult, nance Unit competed for bragging Bohannon said, and so was getting rights at “Fighter Town,” home to the chance to compete. the 525th Fighter Squadron. “They’re selected among their Tech. Sgt. Kimmie Samuel, of peers as the best of the best within Kirbyville, Texas, Airman 1st Class the (AMU),” Bohannon said. Caleb Hill of Shawnee, Okla., and “There’s a very high level of team Airman 1st Class Wesley Bevers- work and cooperation because dorf, of Yuma, Ariz., represented Tech Sgt. Kimmie Samuel, center, Airman 1st Class Caleb Hill, right and Airman 1st Class Wesley Bev- there has to be, to be able to move the 90th Aircraft Maintenance ersdorf, all of the 90th Aircraft Maintenance Unit inspect a Joint Direct Attack Munition at Fighter Town that quickly around an aircraft Unit and came out on top with Oct. 21 during the 3rd Wing quarterly weapons load competition. (Courtesy photo) and load weapons and do it by the zero defects found in their loading book.” procedures. cific Technical Orders, as quickly loading is done properly, by the typically composed of a load team Airmen competed intensely, Samuel’s team won load crew as possible. book, according to Chief Master chief and two junior Airmen. Bohannon said. of the quarter earlier this year and “We, as a load crew, are con- Sgt. Steve Bohannon, 3rd Wing For air-to-air combat, the Rap- “They wanted nothing more will compete for crew of the year stantly competing for Load Crew command chief. tor carries six AIM-120, Advanced than to win this competition,” he as well. of the Month,” Hill said. “We won Fighter Town is a state-of-the- Medium-Range Air to Air Mis- continued. “It is amazing how It took two things to win, ac- the month of September, and pro- art, multi-million dollar aircraft siles and two AIM-9 Sidewinder quickly they can work and still fol- cording to Samuel, “Will power ceeded to win the Load Crew of maintenance facility which was missiles. In the air-to-ground con- low all their TOs and do everything and perfect practice.” the Quarter for the 90th in the 3rd completed recently and is home to figuration the aircraft can carry two by the book.” The load competition is a regu- quarter, then beat the 525 AMU’s a brand new weapons load trainer. 1,000-pound GBU-32 Joint Direct “The last load competition was lar event in which Airmen can for Load Crew of the Quarter.” This was the first quarterly Attack Munitions and load crews won by the 525th (Fighter) Squad- train to increase their speed and The competition was judged by competition at Fighter Town, and have to properly load them so they ron, which made the determination efficiency while loading missiles 3rd Wing Weapons Standardization last year’s competition was can- are effective in combat. even greater for us to win back the and bombs onto the F-22, which evaluators – experienced, objec- celed because the 525th FS was “Inspectors tally how many dis- Load Crew of the Quarter Plaque,” has to be done according to spe- tive Airmen – who make sure the deployed. A weapons load team is crepancies they find and whoever Beversdorf said. Inspector general Q&A : recognizing retaliation, reprisal

Commentary by Steve Wisniewski unfavorable personnel action or withhold- dent or civilians leading an organization she take, withhold, or threaten a management JBER Deputy Inspector General ing or threatening to withhold a favorable designated as a unit in accordance with Air action, officials who decide to take, with- personnel action on a military member for Force Instruction 38-101 or any person in hold, or threaten the management/personnel Scenario: A military member went to making or preparing a protected communica- the member’s chain of command. This is an action, any other official who approved, Equal Opportunity and filed a complaint of tion. (You don’t even have to actually take inclusive list and reporting potential viola- reviewed, or endorsed the management/ sexual harassment against her supervisor. the action; it is enough to threaten to do it.) tions to anyone not on this list may not give personnel action. To gain statutory protection She then received a Letter of Reprimand According to the Military Whistleblower you “protected communication” status. of the law, the Air Force member must file from her flight commander. Protection Act, members of the armed forces The unfavorable personnel action men- the complaint with any IG within 60 days of The LOR states the member embarrassed shall be free from reprisal for making or tioned is any action taken on a member of the becoming aware of the unfavorable person- the squadron by going outside the chain of preparing to make protected communication. armed forces that affects or has the potential nel action that is the basis for the complaint. command with her issue and for that she is Q: What qualifies as protected com- to affect (for example a threat) that military The proper channel for making reprisal receiving the LOR. munication? member’s current position or career. complaints for military members is through Q: The subordinate went outside the A: A broader definition of a protected Such actions include (but are not lim- their military service IG, civilians should chain of command; she deserved the LOR communication is one where the disclosing ited to): demotion, disciplinary or other contact their base civilian personnel flight. right? … or did she? member “reasonably” believes he or she has corrective action, transfer or reassignment, Q: Can you now recognize the elements A: This situation actually occurred and evidence of a violation of law or regulations performance evaluation, a decision on pay, of reprisal in the case introduced in the be- the offending supervisor was investigated by including Technical Orders, safety proce- benefits, awards, or training, referral for ginning of this article? the inspector general and it was substantiated dures, and policies. mental health evaluation, and/or any other A: The EO complaint is the protected that he was guilty of reprisal against his sub- It also includes laws or regulations significant change in duties or responsibili- communication, the LOR is the unfavorable ordinate and he was punished under Article prohibiting sexual harassment or unlaw- ties inconsistent with the military member’s personnel action. 92 of the UCMJ and the LOR was removed ful discrimination, gross mismanagement, rank. A cancellation of a choice or career If someone threatens or takes an adverse from the subordinate’s record. gross waste of funds, abuse of authority or impacting TDY/deployment or last minute personnel action on someone for making a Q: What is reprisal? a substantial and specific danger to public orders to a “bad” one can also be a reprisal. legitimate complaint about a violation of law A: To recognize when reprisal is hap- health or safety. The member then discloses The IG is required to identify and inves- policy or regulation, that’s reprisal. Military pening to you or to avoid being guilty of it this evidence to a member of Congress, IG, tigate all responsible management officials members are subject to prosecution and/or yourself, it is important to understand what EO, Family Advocacy, law enforcement that had involvement with the adverse disciplinary and administrative action under reprisal is. organizations, inspection or audit personnel, personnel action. Responsible management Article 92 of the UCMJ. Civilian supervisors Air Force Instruction 90-301 defines group/squadron commander, command chief officials are officials who influenced or rec- are subject to admonishments, demotions, or reprisal as taking or threatening to take an master sergeant, first sergeant, superinten- ommended to the deciding official that he/ possible dismissal. Powering energy awareness, efficiency saves installations money By Airman 1st Class Simple savings such as turning Tara Williamson off the light when exiting a room Air Force News Service or using compact fluorescent light bulbs are examples of how anyone, Each October, the Air Force fo- at work or home, can do their part cuses its energy on saving energy. to conserve energy. “Our theme for Energy Aware- “Hundreds of thousands of ness Month this year is ‘Power people work on or live on Air Force the Force - Fuel the Fight,’” said bases worldwide,” Gilbert said. Secretary of the Air Force Michael “If we all found a way to save $1 Donley and Chief of Staff of the per day, together we could save Air Force Gen. Norton Schwartz hundreds of thousands of dollars in an energy awareness message every day. This money could then to the public. “This theme seeks be used to ‘Fuel the Fight.’” to highlight energy as a critical Some ways people can help resource to our capabilities and the Air Force conserve energy are: reminds us to focus on the impact - Use compact fluorescent light our day-to-day energy decisions bulbs have on the mission.” - Air dry dishes instead of using During the last 15 years, the the dishwasher’s drying cycle. Air Force has met or exceeded its - Turn off computers and moni- energy-saving goals, said Michael tors when not in use. Gilbert, the 718th Civil Engineer - Lower the water heater ther- Squadron energy manager. But mostat to 120 degrees Fahrenheit with the Air Force relying more In this wire photo, Senior Airman Derek Hunter at , Japan checks circuits on an electri- or 49 degrees Celsius. cal system to promote efficiency. (U.S. Air Force photo/Staff Sgt. Jonathan Steffen) on technology over the years, it - Wash only full loads in dish- is becoming harder and harder to airpower to where it is needed and the mission may not be able to be ference, even if our contribution is washers and clothes washers. keep these goals. combat enemy forces wherever cut back, each member of the 18th small,” Sherril said. “For example, - Drive sensibly. Aggressive “It is necessary to provide en- they may be,” said Dan Sherrill, a Wing here, whether civilian or saving one kilowatt-hour by each driving (speeding, rapid accelera- ergy to all Air Force equipment and 718th CES civil engineer. service member, is responsible for of (the) 20,000 people at this base tion and braking) wastes gasoline. facilities to do the mission, which Though the energy spent on doing their part to help save energy. equals 20 megawatt-hours. That’s Visit www.energysavers.gov for enables the Air Force to deliver equipment and facilities to support “Each one of us can make a dif- over $3,000 taken off our bill.” more energy-saving ideas. / JBER Public Affairs Officer 11th Air Force Maj. Joseph Coslett (USAF) Commanding General ARCTIC WARRIOR Lt. Gen. Dana T. Atkins (USAF) Command Information Chief The Arctic Warrior is published by Wick Communica- available for purchase, use or patronage without regard to race, John Pennell tions, a private firm in no way connected with the Department color, religion, gender, national origin, age, marital status, U.S. Army Alaska of Defense, the Department of the Air Force or the Department physical handicap, political affiliation, or any other non-merit Commanding General of the Army, under exclusive written contract with the Joint factor of the purchaser, user or patron. Arctic Warrior staff Maj. Gen. Raymond P. Palumbo (USA) Base Elmendorf-Richardson Public Affairs Office. To advertise in the Arctic Warrior, please call (907) Luke Waack - managing editor This civilian enterprise newspaper is an authorized pub- 561-7737. Editorial content is edited, prepared and provided lication for members of the U.S. military services. Contents of by the Arctic Warrior staff. David Bedard - news editor Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson/ the Arctic Warrior are not necessarily the official views of, or Editorial office: Building 10480, Suite 123; Mailing Chris McCann - community editor 673d Air Base Wing Commander endorsed by, the U.S. government, Department of Defense, the address: JBER Public Affairs, 10480 22nd St., Suite 123, Ed Cunningham - webmaster Department of the Air Force or the Department of the Army. Elmendorf AFB, AK 99506; telephone (907) 552-8918. Col. Robert D. Evans (USAF) The appearance of advertising in this publication, includ- Send emails about news stories to Arctic.Warrior@ Staff Sgt. Brian Ferguson (USAF) ing inserts or supplements, does not constitute endorsement by elmendorf.af.mil and [email protected]. Staff Sgt. Zachary Wolf (USAF) Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson/ U.S. government, the Department of Defense, the Department Deadline for article and photos is 4:30 p.m., Monday, for Staff Sgt. Sheila Devera (USAF) of the Air Force, the Department of the Army, or Wick Com- the week of publication. Articles and photos will be published 673d Air Base Wing Vice Commander munications of the products or services advertised. on a space-available basis and are subject to editing by the Arc- Steve White Col. Timothy R. Prior (USA) Everything advertised in this publication shall be made tic Warrior staff. Submission does not guarantee publication. October 28, 2011 Arctic Warrior A-3

ABOVE: Air Force 1st Lt. Aaron Green, 773d Logistics Readi- ness Squadron asks Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, Army Gen. Martin Dempsey, a question about deployments during a Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson town hall, Tuesday at Hangar 20. RIGHT: Army Maj. Gen. Raymond Palumbo, U.S. Army Alaska com- manding general, center, and Command Chief Master Sgt. Michael Warner, 11th Air Force, right, greet Dempsey upon his arrival. (U.S. Air Force photos/ Steve White) Chairman From Page A-1 through anything.” Dempsey took questions from the audience on a wide range of topics. “Tell me something about yourselves, tell me what’s on your mind, tell me how I can help and I’ll be as candid as I can with you in scoping where I think we are and where we may be going,” Dempsey said. The first question was asked by a Soldier concerned with potential plans to replace the military pen- said publicly and privately and get it.” of the programs that you think and effective programs in DoD surveys. sion with a 401K retirement fund frequently that we believe anyone Another audience member your peers think are most impor- Dempsey thanked the families system. currently serving should get the asked about potential cuts to family tant,” Dempsey said, encouraging present for their sacrifices in the “Both the Secretary (of De- retirement benefit that they signed programs. military community members to past decade of conflict. fense, Leon Panetta) and I have up to get when they signed up to “We’ve got to figure out which speak up for their favorite, most “We are attuned to what we’ve asked this force – and notably the force’s families – to do over the last 10 years,” Dempsey said. The chairman expressed his pride in the many accomplishments of the service members and their families. “I hope you feel as good about what you’re doing, as we feel about what you’re doing,” Dempsey said. “And just keep that image in mind of that pararescue trooper hanging off that cable. If he can hang off that cable, we can figure the rest of this out, and if you spouses can stick with us the way you’ve stuck with us for the last 10 years, we’re going to be fine.”

LEFT: The 18th Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, Army Gen. Martin Dempsey, addresses more than 600 Soldiers, Airmen, Sailors, Marines and civilians at a town hall meeting in Hangar 20 on Joint Base Elmendorf- Richardson, Tuesday. BELOW: Inside Hangar 20, between a 3rd Wing F-22A Raptor on the right and an Alaska Air National Guard, 176th Wing, HH-60 Pave- hawk helicopter on the left, Gen. Martin Dempsey, Joint Chiefs of Staff chairman, addresses an au- dience of service members and civilians. (U.S. Air Force photos/ Staff Sgt. Zachary Wolf) A-4 Arctic Warrior October 28, 2011 October 28, 2011 Arctic Warrior A-5

Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson honor guard members visited Abbott Loop Elementary school to demonstrate military courtesies and procedures for rendering honors to the national flag as well as other military movements for students Oct. 19. (U.S.Air Force photos/Senior Airman Cynthia Spalding) Honor Guard puts on ‘show and tell’ at school

By Senior Airman Jack Sanders JBER Public Affairs

Members of the Joint Base Elmendorf- Richardson Honor Guard visited a local elementary school Oct. 18 to demonstrate proper flag folding techniques and instruct children on how to display the proper re- spects to Old Glory. Students of Abbot Loop Elementary School got a surprise when members of the JBER honor guard marched into their classroom and began folding and unfolding the flag. The honor guard demonstrated both the six-man flag fold and two-man flag fold techniques to the students. “A six-man flag fold is the typical flag folding ceremony you would see at a funeral, while the two-man flag folding ceremony would be used in a case where the remains were cremated or missing,” said Air Force Staff Sgt. Kristen Griswold. Between each fold the honor guard took time to introduce themselves to the students and take questions ranging from military service to personal beliefs surrounding the flag. “How did you learn to do that,” one student from Mrs. Bell’s third-grade class asked in awe after watching the team perform a six-man flag fold. “We all had to join the base honor guard first,” said Airman 1st Class Timothy Wash- ington, honor guard member. “It took years Airman 1st Class Timothy , left, and Airman 1st Class Jose Mejia, perform the two-man fold of the US flag for a third of practicing too.” grade class Oct. 19. Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson Honor Guard members visited Abbott Loop Elementary school to dem- onstrate proper flag folding procedures and ceremony movements and procedures for students in Mrs. Bell’s third grade class. “Base honor guard members symbolize the Air Force to America and foreign digni- arrival and departure ceremonies for the tary funeral honors for Air Force active-duty, Air Force Honor Guard has led the way as taries at public ceremonies in the local area,” president, foreign heads of state, and other retired personnel, and veterans according to representatives of all Airmen serving around according to www.honorguard.af.mil. “They national or international dignitaries. prescribing publication.” the world. participate in Air Force and joint service It is their responsibility to perform mili- Since the Air Force’s earliest years, the

ABOVE: Joint Base Elmen- dorf-Richardson Honor Guard members demonstrate a six- man flag fold, the typical flag folding ceremony for a fu- neral with a casket. The honor guard visited Abbott Loop Elementary School Oct. 18 to demonstrate proper flag fold- ing techniques and instruct children on how to display the proper respects to Old Glory. FAR RIGHT: Airman 1st Class Jose Mejia, left, answers questions about the U.S. flag for a third grade class at Ab- bott Loop Elementary Oct. 19. RIGHT: Senior Airman Larry Markwell, right, and Airman 1st Class Josh Lemke perform the two-man fold of the US flag for a class of third graders at Ab- bott Loop Elmentary Oct. 19. A-6 Arctic Warrior October 28, 2011 October 28, 2011 Arctic Warrior A-7 A-8 Arctic Warrior October 28, 2011 October 28, 2011 Arctic Warrior A-9 Briefs and Announcements Updated base driving rules retirees. American Insurance. however utilities are paid for by the tenant. New base driving rules order drivers to All personnel are required to be regis- For those tenants currently under the Both options are made available with slow to 10 miles per hour below posted speed tered by January 2012. Register at the People Aurora Allstate Policy, conversion to the new no deposits or fees to the member with the limits during road conditions red or black, Center, Building 8517, Room 100 from 7:30 policy will be totally transparent and will be exclusion of pet fees as it may apply. typically caused by inclement weather. Dur- a.m. to 4 p.m. or at the main entrance of the taken care of by Aurora. This program is designed to provide ing road condition amber or yellow, speed JBER hospital. People can also register at Aurora will continue to honor its re- active-duty military personnel, enlisted and limits remain as posted but it is prudent to the Visitor Control Center which is open 24 imbursement arrangement with those ten- officers, accompanied and unaccompanied reduce speeds during inclement weather or hours a day, seven days a week. ants who have previously elected renter’s with affordable off-base housing. low visibility. Call 552-INFO for the latest Personnel not registered by January 2012 insurance coverage by an insurer other than An allotment must be executed under road conditions. will incur delays at the gate and be forced Allstate. either option of the RPP for the rental Green : Roads are clear and dry. Comply to the already busy Visitor Control Center to These tenants will be grandfathered payments which is made directly to the with normal vehicle operating procedures gain access to JBER. under the previous reimbursement option landlord resulting in a more trouble free and posted speed limits. and will continue to receive reimbursements transactions. Amber: It has been determined that roads Air Force ID card changes during their stay with Aurora. See RPP officials at the Capital Asset may be slippery due to snow, ice, or reduced Due to long wait times for walk-in The new policy coverage limits are very Management Office, Building 6346, Arctic visibility. Drivers will exercise caution. customers, effective Monday, all military similar to those previously provided by Au- Warrior Dr., or call at 552-4328 or 552- Red. It has been determined that roads members or Department of Defense civilians rora and are as follows: 4374 for further information and assistance may be hazardous due to snow, ice, or re- will be required to schedule an appoint- Deductible – $250 regarding this program. duced visibility. Drivers will exercise cau- ment via the Military Personnel Section Personal Property – $20,000 per loss tion and reduce speeds by 10 miles per hour Customer Service Appointment website at Personal Liability – $100,000 per tenant Housing surveys below the posted speed limit. https://673fssmpscustomerser.clickbook.net. household, per occurrence Surveys are sent to each tenant annually Black. It has been determined that road The MPS will only see military members Personal Liability/Medical Payments – and are a valuable tool for informing base conditions are extremely hazardous due to on a walk-in basis if their card is lost, needs $1,000 per person/$1,000 per accident leadership and Aurora Military Housing on ice, snow, or reduced visibility. Vehicle to be unlocked, certificates need updating, Fire Legal Liability – $100,000 per ten- satisfaction with the quality of homes and dispatching is prohibited unless directed by or it ceases to function. ant household, per occurrence. services provided. command authority. Only operate mission It is also highly encouraged appoint- As this limited coverage is provided The results obtained from these surveys essential and emergency response vehicles. ments be made for civilian, dependent, as part of residency, Aurora encourages are used to tailor business decisions which Drivers will exercise extreme caution and Reserve and retiree ID cards. residents to examine their needs and inde- are geared toward improving the quality reduce speeds by 10 miles per hour below pendently seek supplemental coverage if of life desired by Joint Base Elmendorf- the posted speed limit. November flu vaccine necessary. Richardson housing tenants. Inputs through The 673d Medical Group Immunization This is a brief explanation of the cover- the surveys are key to ensuring the right Bargain shop Clinic will be offering influenza vaccines to age; please refer to the policy for precise decisions are made. Please allow Aurora The Bargain Shop will be open Saturday, all TRICARE beneficiaries aged 8 years and terms, conditions, coverage’s and limita- Military Housing and the base leadership Nov. 5 from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. older at the Joint Military Mall Nov. 8-10 tions. A copy of the insurance policy will to better serve with base housing by taking The shop is located at 8515 Saville Ave. from 9:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. be available at the Aurora Military Housing a few minutes to complete and promptly Stop by to shop, volunteer or drop off dona- Influenza vaccines are available on a office or visit www.auroramilitaryhousing. return the surveys in the supplied envelope tions. Add the Bargain Shop on Facebook. walk-in basis. A valid military identifica- com. upon receipt. For further questions on the Become a fan and get weekly updates. tion card must be presented to receive the Aurora Tenant Satisfaction Survey, contact vaccine. Prescription drug ‘take back’ Aurora Military Housing at 753-1023, or the Professional military education The Red Ribbon Week campaign will Capital Asset Management Office. The U.S. Army Alaska Sgt. 1st Class Travel charge card changes close with the DEA sponsored, prescription Christopher R. Brevard Noncommissioned Effective immediately, personal use drug take back program Saturday from 10 Defense attaché officer Officer Academy will graduate Class 13-11 of the controlled spend account govern- a.m. to 2 p.m. Air Force active duty officers, senior Oct. 29. The ceremony will take place at the ment travel charge card is not authorized. The local pick-up points on Joint Base captains, majors or lieutenant colonels, JBER-Richardson Theater at 10 a.m. The CSA card may only be used for Elmendorf-Richardson will be manned by interested in opportunities to help build and The Air Force Professional Military expenses related to official government the JBER Army Substance Abuse Program sustain international relationships can apply Education Center will hold a graduation travel. and the 673d Medical Group Pharmacy at for attaché duty at locations ranging from ceremony for NCOA and ALS classes 11-7 Payments in excess of overall expendi- the Joint Military Mall and commissary Burma to the United Kingdom. at the JBER-Elmendorf Theater, Friday at tures placed on the CSA card, after comple- entrances. Old and no longer used medica- AFPC and the Secretary of the Air Force, 10:45 a.m. tion of official travel (credit or residual tions can be turned in. Inhalers, liquids, or International Affairs are accepting applica- balance), can be obtained by the traveler illicit drugs will not be accepted. This is an tions for senior defense official/defense atta- Halloween candy screening through electronic transfer to a personal ac- opportunity to empty out the medicine cabi- ché, air attaché and assistant air attaché duty The 732nd Air Mobility Squadron count through Citi’s on-line access system net of old medications without polluting our at nine locations, with selectees reporting for Passenger Terminal will be offering free or by phone, request check by Citi, a check landfills or water supply. training between April 2012 and April 2013. Halloween candy screening Monday. After automatically mailed to cardholder after 60 Applications must be received by AFPC trick-or-treating, stop by Building 10364 days of activity, or ATM withdrawal (two Rental Partnership and SAF/IA by Dec. 15. Several defense 18th St. For more information call 552-0503 percent fee). The Rental Partnership Program is avail- attaché offices have C12 aircraft assigned, or 552-6733. able to all eligible active-duty members and so applicants for those offices will need Renters insurance consists of two options. to be fixed-wing pilots. An operations Defense Biometric ID System Aurora Military Housing is providing The first option, RPP Plus, includes background, foreign language skills and All DoD ID card holders are required to free renter’s insurance to tenants of all Joint utilities and sometimes cable costs providing experience in the region are highly desired, enroll into the Defense Biometrics Identi- Base Elmendorf-Richardson housing. an easier budget with a set rental payment although not mandatory. Applicants must fication System on Joint Base Elmendorf- The renter’s insurance will be provided, year round. The other option, RPP 5 Percent have taken the Defense Language Aptitude Richardson to include Active Duty, Reserve, at no cost, to all existing and future JBER Below Market, saves the member five per- Battery, and all their immediate family mem- Army National Guard family members and residents under a blanket policy with Great cent off the rental fee that other tenants pay bers must be U.S. citizens. A-10 Arctic Warrior October 28, 2011 Light therapy assists in avoiding winter depression By Airman 1st Class Yash Rojas said Moody. 354th Fighter Wing Public Affairs “Every little bit helps, even if Airmen are only finding a few minutes in their – In busy schedules to get some much needed certain parts of the planet climactic changes sunlight,” said Moody. take a toll on local inhabitants in the form Happy lights are located at the Eielson of seasonal affective disorder. Medical Clinic, the HAWC, the library, The Iceman team is no stranger to the lodging, ski lodge and youth center. effects of this harsh environment, often Several of these locations have more enduring cold, dark winters with as little than one happy light and provide Airmen as three hours of sunlight. a way to protect themselves and loved ones SAD is considered by the medical against SAD. community to be a type of depression, “It is very important for people to but is sometimes overlooked as its mild make sure they position themselves 12 to symptoms often go unnoticed. 14 inches from the happy light and allow According to Janneane Moody, 354th the light to penetrate their pupil,” Moody Medical Operations Squadron health and said. “The pupil is the most absorbent part wellness center chief and promotion man- of your body in regard to light therapy.” ager, approximately 20 percent of people In a case study from Winter Blues writ- within affected populations experience ten by Norman Rosenthal, psychiatrist and symptoms of SAD. scientist, an individual required no more This means as many as one in five than six hours of sleep in late spring, how- Alaskan residents may be suffering from ever, in winter her sleeping pattern changed this disorder. dramatically increasing to as much as 12 Common signs include a growing need hours of sleep. for sleep, increased appetite and irritability, As stated in Winter Blues, her personal- weight gain and lack of energy. ity would take a complete turn. She would This may sound like nothing more than spend the morning crying and later take a the disadvantages of living in a cold, dark nap. The patient would not drive her car, climate, but are actually the affects of SAD. seldom leave the house nor answer the Left untreated this condition can lead to telephone. The condition may appear very more sever forms of depression. similar to depression. This is why HAWC staff emphasizes “People need to know that every winter utilizing resources available to help Airmen is different,” said Moody. “They often be- combat the affects of SAD. come overconfident thinking that because Paying close attention to daily habits they’ve been here three years they have may help determine if you have SAD. nothing to worry about.” It is better to check than let winter “I think this is the danger zone where depression remain untreated. people become too comfortable and forget “(Airmen) need to stay observant over just how debilitating depression really is,” their diet and activity,” said Moody. “They she added. can keep a food diary to document their The weather is certainly out of Air- eating habits.” men’s immediate control; however, with By having detailed record of your diet the right precautions SAD is preventable. you can observe significant changes in Each winter is different and Airmen have your appetite. to adjust to make sure they are not severely Establishing an exercise routine is affected. recommended -- dress warm when partici- At Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson, pating in outdoor activities and be sure to personnel can contact the Health and Well- Airman 1st Class Martina Nielsen, 354th Communications Squadron information man- hydrate -- to maintain health and wellness. ness Center and the 673d Mental Health ager, reads under a happy light Oct. 17, Eielson Air Force Base. Light therapy absorbed Light therapy is used to absorb light, Flight for information on light treatment. in a natural or artificial setting is considered one of the best ways to combat winter natural or artificial and is considered one of Call mental health at 580-2181 and the depression. (U.S. Air Force photo/Airman 1st Class Yash Rojas) the best ways to combat winter depression, HAWC at 552-2361. Officials stress keeping faith on military retirement

By Jim Garamone all components. American Forces Press Service Rooney said the review has been deliberate, careful and prag- The Defense Department has no matic, and that officials are re- proposals or recommendations on viewing proposals and modeling revamping military retirement at this them to determine the impact on time, but any future proposal must not recruiting and retention. break faith with those in the military The Defense Department, today, senior Pentagon officials told she said, is working to strike the Congress Tuesday. correct balance. “This includes Jo Ann Rooney, the principal weighing the impact of a new deputy undersecretary of defense system on recruiting and reten- for personnel and readiness, and Vee tion, considering the welfare of Penrod, the deputy assistant secretary the individual service members of defense for military personnel and families – which includes policy, testified on military retire- grandfathering our existing force ment before the House Armed Ser- who took their oath under the cur- vices Committee’s military personnel rent system – and acknowledging subcommittee. our responsibility to the American The Defense Business Board has taxpayer,” she said. proposed making a military retire- The current military retire- ment system more like private-sector ment system has supported the systems. most-successful volunteer force The military system has remained in the world, Penrod noted. fairly constant over time, Rooney said, “The question now,” Penrod while the private sector has changed Sgt. Sean Matthews, team leader attached to the Laghman Provincial Reconstruction Team, pulls added, “is whether the current its retirement systems to cater to the security for members of the PRT while on a patrol in Mehtar Lam district, Laghman province, Oct. 8. system is still relevant in today’s increasingly mobile workforce. Defense Dept. officials are considering how to shape retirment benefits. (U.S.Army photo) environment. If not, should it be “Unlike (the private) sector, the promotions and personnel policies approach – with contributions The department should ex- modified in a manner more in line military services must grow most of that all foster the retention and from individuals and transport- amine the retirement system with the private sector?” their military workforce internally,” longer careers necessary to create able benefits – may not be the best in the context of a total mili- Officials are not looking at she said. “It generally takes 15 to 20 these experienced leaders.” way for the uniformed services to tary compensation system, she retirement in isolation, Penrod years to develop the next generation The military, she said, needs go. added. pointed out, but rather at how of infantry battalion commanders and greater longevity and continuity to This does not mean that the DOD officials, she told the personnel and pay policies affect submarine captains. As a result, the develop leaders, and a retirement current system is sacrosanct, panel, are examining all aspects decisions to join the military and military must ensure compensation, system mirroring a private-sector Rooney said. of the retirement system for then to stay.

Post Office sets holiday schedule DBIDS By Mark Edwards category in order to avoid unplanned From Page A-1 Army Human Resources Command transportation delays. Not all Military or State Department property owners on JBER Jan. 17, and con- The U.S. Postal Service and Military post offices are eligible for Express Mail cluded April 30. Postal Service Agency have released dead- Military Service therefore, customers Active duty, Reserve and National Guard lines to ensure packages arrive to Military should plan accordingly. military members and their immediate fami- and State Department post offices overseas by “Express Mail Military Service is not lies were scheduled to register during Phase Dec. 25. available for holiday packages and mail 2, from May to July. Retirees, their family Deadlines to ensure arrival by Dec. 25 are going to Iraq and Afghanistan,” said Faye members and all others were scheduled to Nov. 12 for parcel post mail; Nov. 26 for space- Slater, the deputy director of the Military register in Phase 3, from August to October. available mail; Dec. 3 for parcel airlift mail; Postal Service Agency. Phase 4 will be for all others not yet Dec. 10 for priority mail and first-class mail, The Military Postal Service provides registered in DBIDS after October. letters and cards; and Dec. 17 for express mail mail service around the world to Depart- Administrators will register each group military service. ment of Defense and most Department of for base access at the following locations: The Military Postal Service Agency highly State locations. Security Forces Base Access office/ Courtesy graphic encourages customers to mail packages on Mail is moved on commercial and mili- Building 8517, Room 100 (Peoples Center) credential to access the base, the ID or before the dates for the specific mail tary aircraft and commercial sealift vessels Monday to Friday 7:30 a.m.-4 p.m, both card is an authorized DoD credential to nearly 2,000 military post offices located Visitor Control Centers (D St and Boniface) and that it is not expired, lost or stolen. in over 85 countries. 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. It also verifies the individual’s The Adjutant General of the Army, lo- Remote registration will also be con- identity and that he or she is not want- cated at the Human Resources Command, ducted at the Elmendorf Theater and other ed, barred or suspended from entering Fort Knox, Ky., is the executive director of locations on JBER still to be determined. the installation, and has access to the the Military Postal Service Agency. In addition to validating identity creden- installation under the current Force For information on mailing deadlines tials, DBIDS also verifies authorizations and Protection Condition. and restrictions, email the Military Postal assigns access privileges based on identity, Administrators will register each Service at: [email protected]. affiliation, and the current force protection group for base access at the following There are two post offices on Joint Base level. locations: Elmendorf-Richardson. The new system works very much like Security Forces Base Access office/ There is one at 10437 Kuter Ave., open the Mobilisa system currently in place. The Building 8517, Room 100 (Peoples from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Fri- guard scans the card’s various barcodes us- Center) Monday-Friday 7:30 a.m. to 4 day and another at 724 Quartermaster Road. ing a handheld device. p.m., both Visitor Control Centers (D The Quartermaster Road location is The guard then reviews the screen dis- Street and Boniface) 24 hours a day, open from 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Monday play; verifies it is the individual utilizing the seven days a week. Courtesy graphic through Friday. October 28, 2011 Arctic Warrior A-11 A-12 Arctic Warrior October 28, 2011 October 28, 2011 Arctic Warrior A-13 A-14 Arctic Warrior October 28, 2011