First choice for homeland operations Commander’s Corner Building future leaders By Col. Jeffrey L. Hedges 109th Mission Support Group Commander

Airmen with the 109th Airlift Wing visited Gettysburg File Photo Battlefield in Pennsylvania on Sept. 23, 2015. The staff ride was part of PME training at the U.S. Army kind and having walked the battlefields War College at Carlisle Barracks, Pennsylvania. while hearing of the events that took place on the very ground we walked, was truly Courtesy Photo remarkable,” said 1st Lt. Jared Semerad, hakespeare pointed out that some days at Carlisle Barracks and one day on Wing Plans. men are born great, some achieve the Battlefield. The War College offered greatness, and some have greatness Whether at home station or on location at S the accommodations as well as professional historically significant locations miles from thrust upon them. And, upon the battlefields support by way of Dr. Paul Jussel, Professor of Gettysburg, the courageous endeavor of base, the message to our Airmen remains the of Military Studies in the Department of competing forces ensured greatness in all same – you are worth the investment! Finding Military Strategy, Planning, and Operations, three poetic dimensions endured. ways to foster professionalism isn’t easy or Military leadership though axiomatic is who spent all three days with the students cheap but the results are priceless. One of the clearly not instinctive for most. It is therefore lecturing and guiding the Staff Ride at wing’s tenants remains development of our a duty of those in senior martial roles to Gettysburg. “The experience was one of nation’s future – whether born or thrust into it. purposely advance initiatives designed to stress leadership development. Reliance on formal schools and centrally funded Airmen with the 109th programs – a fading aberration, is plainly Airlift Wing visited Gettysburg Battlefield in inadequate. So too is a proclivity to marvel Pennsylvania on Sept. at the complexity of the issue, highlighting 23, 2015. The staff the indispensability of leadership training ride was part of PME training at the U.S. Army and dismissively sighing away responsibility. War College at Carlisle The 109th Airlift Wing has committed to a Barracks, Pennsylvania. series of hard-hitting, focused developmental programs that invest in both officer and enlisted maturity. Over the past five years, the wing has sponsored Airman/NCO Leadership courses on base, trips to Washington D.C., and Staff Rides to Saratoga Battlefield, Boston, Concord, and Lexington. In September of 2015, senior leaders organized the second PME training to the U.S. Army War College at Carlisle Barracks, Pennsylvania, with accompanying Staff Ride to Gettysburg. The focus audience was wing company grade officers with the trip covering two Photo by 1st Lt. Jared Semerad 2 The Skibird 109th Airlift Wing The Skibird Fall/Winter 2015 Volume 51, No. 2 Commander Col. Shawn Clouthier Inside Vice Commander Col. Alan Ross Mission Talk Command Chief 109th AW awarded AFOUA Page 5 Chief Master Sgt. Amy Giaquinto 109th AW begins 28th ODF season Page 6 The Family Programs holds first White Ribbon Page 7 Airmen, aircraft support NSF in Greenland Page 8 SkibirdFall/Winter 2015 Volume 51, No. 2 Sander assumes command of OG Page 9 Public Affairs Staff Maj. Anthony Bucci Chief of Public Affairs Counterdrug Master Sgt. William Gizara NYNG Counterdrug hosts conference Page 11 Public Affairs Manager / Photojournalist Master Sgt. Christine Wood Broadcast Journalist Domestic Ops Tech. Sgt. Jason Cooper Airmen practice medical evacuation Page 13 Broadcast Journalist Tech. Sgt. Catharine Schmidt 109th AW gains debris removal capability Page 14 Editor, The Skibird / Photojournalist Staff Sgt. Benjamin German Photojournalist Airman Development Airman 1st Class Jamie Spaulding Broadcast Journalist 109th CF professional development day Page 17

The Skibird 1 ANG Road, Scotia, NY 12302-9752; Community PHONE: (518) 344-2423/2396 DSN: 344-2423/2396 Airmen march in Patriot Ruckmarch Page 18 EMAIL: [email protected] Air Force Band performs in local area Page 19 This funded Air Force publication is an authorized publication for members of the U.S. Military services. Contents of The Skibird are not necessarily the official view of, or endorsed by, the U.S. Government, the Wellness Center Department of Defense or the Department of the Air Force. Wellness team soaring to new heights Page 20 The editorial content is edited, prepared, and provided Airmen affected by mandatory TAP Page 20 by the Public Affairs Office of the 109th Airlift Wing. All photographs are Air Force photographs unless otherwise indicated. DEADLINE NOTICE: All items for The Skibird must FSS Notes Page 21 be received in the Public Affairs Office no later than the Saturday of May and November UTAs. Address changes for individuals not in the 109AW should be directed to: 109AW/PA, 1 Road, Scotia, New Spotlight York 12302-9752 or by phone at (518) 344-2423/2396 Awards, retirements, promotions Pages 22-23 or DSN: 344-2423/2396.

On the cover: The Air National Guard’s 109th and 106th Fire Departments’ urban search and rescue teams complete high angle training during a joint search and rescue training exercise Oct. 21, 2015 at Camp Smith, New York. Read the full story on Page 15 (Photo by Tech. Sgt. Catharine Schmidt)

Fall/Winter 2015 3 Command Chief Notes Airmen continue success By Chief Master Sgt. Amy Giaquinto and the 139th Aeromedical Evacuation 109th AW Command Chief Squadron, along with several local agencies across the Capital District, participated in his year has been a busy year, both a coordinated National Disaster Medical with policies as well as the great System Exercise. This exercise highlighted Tthings our Airmen do each and the vital function of the 109th AW and every day to get the mission done. 139th AES in the NDMS and Homeland 2015 has been the year of execution Defense mission as well as the cooperation on policies that were being worked. The and coordination between the 109th AW interim changes to the Airman Promotion/ and New York state civilian medical and Demotion Program and Fitness Program emergency management assets. capture the changes to fitness with regards In August the 109th AW demonstrated to promotions and evaluations. The its natural disaster response capability Community College of the Air Force by assembling a 26-person domestic degree or equivalent has been added to operations team, from base volunteers, to File Photo the promotion regulation as well. The support homeland operations when disaster Enlisted Evaluation System (EES) rollout strikes. The first training exercise for the has been slow; the Air Force is the lead on team was a debris removal request from October continued to be a busy month this project, and the Air National Guard the Schenectady County’s airport authority as firefighters from the 109th AW, 106th is standing by to remove Rescue Wing, and 105th AW, met up to respond to some trees at Camp Smith, New York, on Oct. 20, “I know you all feel the pressure from our unique that were after convoying from their respective policies. The all the change and implementation; but blocking bases to complete three days of joint bottom line: I can assure you that I and your senior their view search and rescue training. The 109th Fire EES is a of the ramp. leaders will lead you through these Department’s urban search and rescue commander’s As the times and provide you with the tools you team, the lead USAR within the New York and supervisory 109th AW tool to help need to succeed.” prepared Air National Guard, is currently the only provide to launch self-sufficient fully capable mobile unit in feedback and its 28th the Air National Guard. performance-based evaluations along with season supporting Lastly, I would like to say promotion recommendations. in Antarctica, the Airman and Family “Congratulations” to the men and women The formal Enlisted Grade Review Readiness Programs office held the first- of the 109th AW for being awarded the Air (EGR) is underway. The 2015 EGR will ever White Ribbon event for Airmen Force Outstanding Unit Award. Thank you follow a new set of business rules to improve and their families in October, offering for all you do each and every day. You’ve the process, increase transparency, allow information on benefits and services earned it! maximum flexibility to Directorate point of available to them while their loved one is contacts, career field functional managers, away. The White Ribbon is very similar to Once again the men and women of the and functional area managers, and ensure the Yellow Ribbon events offered to those 109th AW showed their adaptability and field involvement through the Enlisted affected by contingency deployments. The service before self while fulfilling their Field Advisory Council (EFAC). The five White Ribbon is unique to the 109th AW state and federal mission requirements. As core business rules are: field involvement because of their annual deployments to we look forward to 2016 let’s make sure (EFAC), no Air Force specialty percent McMurdo Station, Antarctica. to end 2015 on a safe and successful note. cap, grades go where needed, career path By the end of October, Airmen and With the holidays right around the corner (pyramid structure), and standardization aircraft from the 109th AW were in place enjoy whatever time you can with family (strategic manpower assessment). I know at McMurdo Station, Antarctica, supporting and friends remembering all the things in you all feel the pressure from all the change the National Science Foundation for the our lives that we are truly grateful for. I and implementation; but I can assure you 28th season of Operation Deep Freeze. that I and your senior leaders will lead you Throughout the season, a total of seven would ask you to keep those who cannot be through these times and provide you with LC-130 ski-equipped aircraft and about home with their loved ones in your thoughts the tools you need to succeed. 500 Airmen are expected to deploy, with and prayers as you enjoy the upcoming Toward the end of July, the 109th AW 330 missions planned. holidays. 4 The Skibird Mission Talk 109th AW awarded AF Outstanding Unit Award By Tech. Sgt. Catharine Schmidt Clouthier, 109th Airlift Wing commander in a $400,000 annual cost savings. 109th AW Public Affairs said to the unit’s Airmen. “You have all The 109th Medical Group was also noted earned this prestigious award.” for their significance by hosting the 2013 he 109th Airlift Wing was The award recognizes the 109th AW for National Disaster Medical System exercise, recently awarded the Air Force its continued military support to the National showcasing their seamless synchronization Outstanding Unit Award for its Science Foundation’s Operation Deep Freeze of federal, state and local medical response T mission, providing tactical polar airlift in the forces. accomplishments between Nov. 1, 2012 and Oct. 31, 2014. North and South Polar regions. Within the The award also recognized the Airmen of The Air Force-level award is given to two-year period, the 109th AW generated the 109thAW for exemplifying theAir Force core value of Service Before Self for their units which have demonstrated outstanding nearly 8,500 flight hours, delivered 12.2 volunteerism in more than 40 local events achievement setting the unit above national million pounds of cargo and transported within the surrounding community. or international significance, combat more than 13,000 passengers to remote This is the eighth time the wing has operations against an armed enemy of sites throughout Antarctica and Greenland. received the Air Force-level award. the or military operations Additionally, the innovation of the 109th involving conflict with or exposure to hostile Mission Support Group contributed to the actions by an opposing foreign force. fulfillment of national economic savings “Thank you all for your tremendous objectives by overhauling the Operation efforts each and every day,” Col. Shawn Deep Freeze supply depot contract, resulting

New locations for Building 1 occupants

Bldg 1 Occupant New Location Wing Command Suite Bldg 3 IG Bldg 15 (IG Office); Bldg 24 (IGQ); Bldg 19, Maintenance Classroom (IG Staff) Recruiting Bldg 19 office and classroom HRO/MEO Bldg 24 JA Bldg 15, CU area Chaplain Assistants Bldg 20, Upper Left Mezzanine Finance Bldg 15 Wing Plans Bldg 26 Medical Group Bldg 25 FSS Bldg 16, B- Dining Hall Customer Service Bldg 27, Comm Help Desk Readiness Bldg 27, KOM area behind mailboxes Base Testing Room Bldg 27, Comm Classroom Wellness Center Bldg 15 Safety Bldg 31, Firehouse Classroom Retention Bldg 19 Mission Support Group Command Staff Bldg 25 Credit Union Bldg 2, Main Hangar, old union office

Bldg 3: Logistics Readiness Squadron Bldg 24: Counterdrug Bldg 15: Honor Guard Bldg 25: Civil Engineering Bldg 16: Dining Facility Bldg 26: Security Forces Bldg 19: Maintenance Bldg 27: Communications Bldg 20: Small Air Terminal Bldg 31: Firehouse

Fall/Winter 2015 5 Mission Talk 109th AW begins 28th ODF season

By Tech. Sgt. Catharine Schmidt you watch that weather very closely, and ice imaging system that measures in detail 109th AW Public Affairs from there you do your mission,” said Lt. both the ice surface and the ice bed. Col. Christian Sander, 109th Operations “This season is seeing the maturation of he takeoff of the New York Air Group commander. the Common Science Support Pod with 18 National Guard’s LC-130 ski- Throughout the season, which runs IcePod missions planned compared to three Tequipped aircraft here Oct. 16 through February, a total of seven LC-130 missions last season,” said Lt. Col. Blair marked the official start of the 109th Airlift ski-equipped aircraft and about 500 Airmen Herdrick, 139th Airlift Squadron’s Antarctic Wing’s 28th season of support to science are expected to deploy, with 330 missions Operations chief. “IcePod is a project by research at the South Pole. planned. About 120 Airmen will be deployed Lamont-Doherty Earth Observatory (LDEO) By the end of October, Airmen and on the ice at any one time. at Columbia University in New York. aircraft with the 109th Airlift Wing were The unique capabilities of the ski- The IcePod project utilizes the Common in place at McMurdo Station, Antarctica, equipped LC-130 aircraft make it the only Science Support Pod to house a variety participating in Operation Deep Freeze, the one of its kind in the U.S. military, able to of instruments to measure changes in the military component of the U.S. Antarctic land on snow and ice. The primary mission Antarctic ice sheet.” Program, managed by the National Science of the 109th AW is to provide airlift within The IcePod missions were flown for Foundation. Antarctica, flying to various remote locations the first time in Antarctica last season, and Lt. Col. Seth Barrows was part of the first from McMurdo Station. Crews will transport were deemed one of the biggest successes aircrew to leave and the 139th Expeditionary scientists, support, fuel, supplies, medical of the year. Airlift Squadron deployed commander. supplies and more throughout the season. The 109th AW has been supporting the Barrows said as the deployed commander he This year, the IcePod missions are NSF’s South Pole research since 1988. Since must ensure planes, people and weather are expected to increase from the previous 1999, the unit has been the sole provider all good to ensure a safe, successful mission. season. The IcePod is an externally mounted of this type of airlift to the NSF and U.S. “The weather is the biggest challenge so electronics pod that provides an integrated Antarctic research efforts.

Photo by Master Sgt. William Gizara An LC-130 Skibird and aircrew with the New York Air National Guard's 109th Airlift Wing departed Oct. 16, 2015, from Stratton Air National Guard Base, New York, for McMurdo Station, Antarctica. This is the 28th season that the unit has participated in Operation Deep Freeze, the military component of the U.S. Antarctic Program, which is managed by the National Science Foundation.

6 The Skibird Mission Talk Family Programs holds first White Ribbon event for Airmen, families affected by ODF By Tech. Sgt. Catharine Schmidt put something together to let theAirmen and 109th AW Public Affairs families affected by ODF each year know what resources were available to them. s the 109th Airlift Wing prepared Multiple vendors were at the event, to launch its 28th season providing information on what resources Asupporting Operation Deep they could provide. Freeze in Antarctica, theAirman and Family Vendors included the New York State Readiness Programs office held the first- Child and Youth Program and Teen Council, ever White Ribbon event Oct. 3 for Airmen the American Red Cross, Military One and their families, offering information on Source, Blue Star Mothers of America, benefits and services available to them while Saratoga Warhorse as well as on-base their loved one is away. resources such as the Chaplain Corps, The White Ribbon is very similar to Director of Psychological Health and the the Yellow Ribbon events offered to those all-volunteer 109th Family Matters Group. affected by contingency deployments. The “I feel like this is going to be great for White Ribbon is unique to the 109th AW my wife because it gives her a little bit more because of their annual deployments to information of when I’m gone what different Photo by Tech. Sgt. Catharine Schmidt McMurdo Station, Antarctica. outlets she might have,” said Staff Sgt. Amy Nevells, New York Military One Source “I thought it was very important to pull James Comstock, 109th Logistics Readiness Consultant, talks with an Airman with the 109th together some kind of event where families Squadron customer service representative. Airlift Wing who will be deploying in support of could come, they could get information, This will be his third ODF deployment. Operation Deep Freeze, about services available they could get resources, and they could “I think this program is great, and I’m to him and his family during the first-ever White Ribbon event at Stratton Air National Guard Base, get hooked up with these resources,” said glad that they’re offering it” said Jenna New York, on Oct. 3, 2015. The White Ribbon is Colleen Casey, 109th AFRP manager. Herdrick, whose husband has deployed to very similar to the Yellow Ribbon events offered to Casey said when she took the position Antarctica for multiple years. “I think it’s those affected by contingency deployments. The here earlier in the year, she learned about going to benefit me by knowing the services White Ribbon is unique to the 109th AW because of their annual deployments to McMurdo Station, the 109th’s unique mission and wanted to (that are offered).” Antarctica.

VIDEO

Click the arrow to watch the video story, shot and edited by Tech. Sgt. Jason Cooper.

Airmen and family members with the 109th Airlift Wing attended the first-ever White Ribbon event at Stratton Air National Guard Base, New York, on Oct. 3, 2015. The White Ribbon is very similar to the Yellow Ribbon events offered to those affected by contingency deployments. The White Ribbon is unique to the 109th AW because of their annual deployments to McMurdo Station, Antarctica. Photo by Tech. Sgt. Catharine Schmidt

Fall/Winter 2015 7 Mission Talk Airmen, aircraft support NSF in Greenland International, national media join crews, document 109th mission By Tech. Sgt. Catharine Schmidt 109th AW Public Affairs

he 109th Airlift Wing’s support for National Science Foundation Tresearch in Greenland was once again a success – crews flew 684 hours, moved 1.6 million pounds of cargo, delivered nearly 65,000 pounds of fuel, and moved more than 1,500 passengers. Throughout the season, which ran March through August, Airmen and aircraft provided support for Greenland research by transporting fuel, cargo and passengers to and from the various camps throughout Greenland aboard LC-130 ski-equipped Hercules transport planes. The LC-130s are the largest planes in the world equipped to land on snow pack. During the U.S. winter season, the 109th Photo by Staff Sgt. Benjamin German AW is supporting Operation Deep Freeze Media gets imagery of a 109th Airlift Wing LC-130 Skibird at Summit, Greenland, on June 29, 2015. in Antarctica, and in the summer months, Airmen and aircraft from the New York Air National Guard’s 109th AW stage out of Kangerlussuaq, the unit flies to Greenland to not only Greenland, during the summer months, supplying fuel and supplies and transporting passengers in continue their support for National Science and out of various National Science Foundation camps on the Ice Shelf in Greenland throughout the Foundation but also to ensure they are ready entire season. The unique capabilities of the ski-equipped LC-130 aircraft make it the only one of its kind in the U.S. military, able to land on snow and ice. to supply bases across Antarctica when the long Antarctic winter ends. The 109th deploys at various times While there, media had the chance to takes to get the mission done.” between March and August for Greenland. see aircrew, maintainers and other support The media outlets, including ABC News Each year, about six rotations consisting of personnel hard at work in Kangerlussuaq. and CBS News, produced news pieces two to four aircraft and up to 80 Airmen They also got to visit Summit, one of highlighting the 109th AW’s mission in each, go up anywhere from six to 14 days at the camps supporting researchers whose Greenland. a time depending on the needs of the NSF. primary focus is global climate change. “It’s really important for the media to “We supply various science camps on “We wanted to learn about the experience see firsthand how we support the National the Ice Shelf in Greenland,” said Maj. Erik of landing on a snow or ice-covered Science Foundation and all that goes into Srokowski of the Greenland shop. “We bring runway, and how the 109th prepares for it so they can get our story out there and in fuel and supplies to these camps and bring this mission,” said Christoph Kaestner, of highlight the amazing work our Airmen are passengers in and out the entire season. the German magazine, “Der Flugleiter” doing on the ice,” said Maj. Anthony Bucci, “One of the most important science and website, World of Aviation. “We had the 109th AW public affairs officer who missions we have are the transportation of a really good opportunity to get all of this escorted the media on the trip. ice cores out of the remote camps and back information. To be able to see the whole to the United States,” he said. “Ice cores are mission, including the preparation that a vital part of the science effort in the Arctic went into it was really great. We had great Angel Canales with ABC News in analyzing the composition of Earth’s opportunities to take pictures and film; it’s produced a video segment, atmosphere thousands of years ago.” been a great experience all around.” This year, national and international “I was really surprised to see how big “New York Air Guard unit reporters had the chance to see the wing in Camp Summit is, and how many people are is lifeline for scientists in action, as they boarded an LC-130 aircraft working here,” said Thomas Urbild, editor Greenland and Antarctica.” at the end of June at Stratton for the trip in chief of World of Aviation. “It was also Click here to see the segment. to Kangerlussuaq, Greenland – the hub of great to see the operations from the 109th 109th AW activity. in Kangerlussuaq and how many people it 8 The Skibird Mission Talk Sander assumes command of Operations Group

By Tech. Sgt. Catharine Schmidt 109th AW Public Affairs

t. Col. Christian Sander assumed command of the 109th Operations LGroup during a change of command ceremony here Sept. 13. Sander, previous 109th Maintenance Group deputy commander, assumed command from Col. Michael Steindl in a ceremony officiated by Col. Alan Ross, 109th Airlift Wing vice commander. Changes of command are a military tradition representing the transfer of responsibilities from the presiding official to the upcoming official. Ross spoke about the many leadership positions Sander has been in throughout the years including the opening expeditionary airlift squadron commander in Antarctica. He also spoke about Sander’s role in the 1999 rescue of Dr. from the South Pole. “I just remember how professional he was in handling the crew and the mission,” Ross said. “I knew from that experience that he would do a lot of good things for the unit and rise to higher levels and responsibility, and he’s done that. I just want to thank you for that and for all you do in the future,” he said to Sander. Photo by Master Sgt. William Gizara Steindl, a 26-year veteran, will be retiring Lt. Col. Chris Sander assumed command of the 109th Operations Group from outgoing commander within the next couple months. Before Col. Michael Steindl with Col. Alan Ross, 109th Airlift Wing vice commander, officiating the change of command ceremony at Stratton Air National Guard Base, New York, on Sept. 13, 2015. Sander was relinquishing command, he thanked his previously the 109th Maintenance Group deputy commander. family and the Operations Group for the years of support they had given him. “I found out quite recently that leaving wing and we do amazing things and the Group for all they had done and his family this position is at least as stressful as Operations Group is a big part of that,” for their support over the years before entering it,” he said. “But I comfort myself Ross said. “I’d like to thank Colonel Steindl addressing the Operations Group. knowing that the unit is in good hands. ... I for his three years of leadership in the “I have a clear vision of the future - it’s cannot thank you all enough for making me Operations Group and for all you’ve done so proud to have been your commander. It to make us ready and relevant and continue now my job to support you as I’ve been is truly the highlight of my career. You are on in the 21st Century.” supported in the past,” he said. “Through an amazing After the fine mission sets, an effective chain of group of “I have a clear vision of the future - it’s Operations command, and empowering our young Airmen that now my job to support you as I’ve been Group guidon people, we’re going to focus our incredible together do supported in the past.” was passed intellectual fire power on getting unified great things to Sander, goals finished, and we’re going to do a good and amazing he addressed things.” Lt. Col. Christian Sander the audience. job of it every single day. And every single “This is an 109th Operations Group commander Sander thanked day we’re going to take care of each other so extraordinary the Maintenance that we really enjoy our time here.” Fall/Winter 2015 9 Around the Wing Wing, area first responders hold MARE

The 109th Airlift Wing worked with local first responders in a Major Accident Response Exercise on base June 14, 2015. MARE is annual requirement by the Department of Defense to exercise the wing’s disaster response, utilizing mutual aid agreements with community first responders. The exercise simulated a tanker truck explosion on base.

Photo by Staff Sgt. Benjamin German

K-9 security on Stratton

Tech. Sgt. Scott Everson, a loadmaster with the 139th Airlift Squadron, works as a K-9 handler in a private security company on the civilian side with Aggie, an explosive detection K-9. Everson was given approval by 109th Airlift Wing leadership to train Aggie at the base, giving the 109th Security Forces Squadron an added measure of security at the front gate. Aggie assisted with random vehicle inspections over a few months while at the same time receiving real-world training.

Photo by Tech. Sgt. Catharine Schmidt Photo by Tech. Sgt. Catharine Schmidt

10 The Skibird Counterdrug NYNG CDTF hosts community anti-drug groups at conference By Tech. Sgt. Catharine Schmidt 109th AW Public Affairs

ore than 100 members of community anti-drug groups Mfrom across New York attended a conference hosted by the New York National Guard’s Counterdrug Task Force on Wednesday, Oct. 28 at the Glenville Armed Forces Reserve Center. “This conference was an opportunity to get the latest drug threats and information out to community based organizations whose main goal is the prevention of drug use and implementing environmental strategies to stop drug abuse in communities,” said New York Army National Guard Capt. Joseph Moeller. Photo by Tech. Sgt. Catharine Schmidt Moeller heads the task force’s Civil New York Army National Guard Counter Drug Task Force members and Northeastern New York Prevention Cooperative representatives hosted the Alcohol and Substance Abuse Treatment Prevention Operations effort. and Recovery Conference at the Naval Operations Support Center in Glenville, New York, on Oct. 28, The Airmen and Soldier assigned to Civil 2015. More than 100 community anti-drug program members attended the conference. Operations work with local community anti-drug groups to help them do their jobs of our surrounding counties in a regional this information, and allowing them to make better and more effectively. They provide way … to make sure they’re getting clear their own decisions,” Sweeter said. administrative and planning support to these and consistent messages across the board,” “Oftentimes in the prevention field we local groups. she said. don’t have the resources and we don’t have The 100 participants represented 15 Education is the key for coalitions, and the manpower so we have to do as much counties in northeastern New York. they do this with environmental preventative as we can to change things on a broader “We used to be very isolated in our own strategies – policies, programs and practices scale and leave the direct programming up field of thought, but we’ve found that the that promote the well-being of people and to school districts and the counselors and more we’ve gotten together to do these aim to reduce substance abuse. therapists,” Downey said. conferences we not only share knowledge, “Environmental preventive strategies The conference not only brought together but we also come up with incredibly work to change the culture and climate of a coalitions, but also others in the community effective environmental strategies that community,” Downey said. who are affected in some way by substance individually we may not have thought of,” “One of the strategies we use is really abuse, such as judges, lawyers, doctors and said Air National Guard Master Sgt. Candace trying to educate our community but at prevention treatment specialists. Attendees Stefanik, a civil operations specialist. the same time educate our prevention spent the day in various workshops such as “When you meet other people in several folks and the people who have boots to Incorporating Prevention in the Classroom, different fields all with the same common the ground, like Counterdrug, to make Engaging the Addict at all Costs, and Recent goal, it’s amazing the strategies you can sure we’re all speaking on the same page,” Marijuana Research and Trends, just to come up with,” she added. said Kristin Sweeter, the grant coordinator name a few. Kaitlin Downey, the youth specialist with the Niskayuna Community Action The mission of the Northeast New for the Community Coalition for Family Program. York Prevention Cooperative is to build Wellness in Saratoga, agreed that everyone “It’s important for coalitions to give capacity among agencies, communities, and collaborating is very beneficial. people the information, whether they’re coalitions to provide effective prevention “When we all come together, we can be parents or students, and let them do with it services for the people of 15 counties around working on the same sort of mission in all as they choose. It’s about giving them all of the capital region of New York State. Fall/Winter 2015 11 Veterans Day

Antarctic Sun photo by Michael Lucibella Two nations celebrate Veterans Day on the ice Residents of McMurdo Station and New Zealand’s joined together on Veterans Day to honor the service of their nations’ men and women in uniform. Pictured, Jeremiah Clark and Terrell Skafer raise the American and New Zealand flags as Master Sgt. Al Moon plays reveille in a joint Veterans Day ceremony.

Honor and Serve Breakfast

Airmen with the 109th Airlift Wing were among many service members and veterans who attended the 7th annual “To Honor and Serve” Breakfast at Glen Sanders Mansion in Scotia, New York, on Nov. 5, 2015. The event is hosted each year by the Capital Region Chamber.

Photo by Master Sgt. William Gizara 12 The Skibird Domestic Ops Airmen practice medical evacuation at Stratton By Maj. Anthony Bucci interagency environment.” System is intended to enhance a medical disaster is to recruit 109th AW Public Affairs Agency partners in the the medical response during a hospitals and maintain local non- training included the Albany crisis by combining federal and federal hospital participation in Stratton Veterans Affairs Medical light medics rushed non-federal medical resources. the National Disaster Medical Center, the Department of to stabilize a patient It is federally coordinated, but System. The leaders and staff of Health and Human Services, and move the litter includes medical resources at the the 109th Airlift Wing support F the Department of Homeland state, county and local level when onto a waiting LC-130 Hercules that role in coordinating exercises aircraft, a life-saving training Security, the National Disaster disasters strike. and emergency plans with Medical System, the Civil Air exercise where minutes and “The National Disaster participating hospitals and other Patrol and the East Glenville Fire hours can mean life or death for Medical System combines local authorities. Department. federal and non-federal medical casualties. The goal is to establish patient Coordinating such diverse resources into a unified response The event was a training reception, transportation, and groups under a unified to meet natural and man-made exercise for the 139th communication plans, and during effort requires practice and disaster needs, as well as support Aeromedical Evacuation system activation in a crisis, Squadron here July 30. communication, Legault stressed. patient treatment requirements coordinate the reception and Airmen who routinely train During the training, patients from military contingencies,” distribution of patients being for overseas missions to handle were stabilized for transport, Backus said. combat casualties also prepare loaded onto an LC-130 Hercules The training also highlighted evacuated to the area. for disasters at home where their and evacuated by members of the the important role of Stratton Members of the New York skills might save the lives of 139th, who were sharpening their Air National Guard Base. The Air National Guard and the fellow Americans. skills for medical evacuation facility is designated as a federal 109th Airlift Wing already have The exercise, part of a missions. coordinating center, one of only a good deal of experience with coordinated National Disaster The simulated patients, 10 National Guard bases with this such response efforts following Medical System Exercise, volunteer cadets from the Civil responsibility. Tropical Storm Irene in 2011 and included several local agencies Air Patrol, were moved from a The role of Stratton during Superstorm Sandy in 2012. from across the Capital District. staging site at the East Glenville The joint agency training helps Volunteer Fire Department to build much better familiarity Stratton and then loaded onto an with those other response LC-130 for transport. agencies before a disaster occurs, For theAir National Guard, the said Capt. Richard Legault, shift in focus from an overseas 139th AES Operations Flight contingency operation to disaster commander. response is a seamless one, made “Understanding our state even more realistic with the mission,” Legault said, “which agency partners during training. separates us from our active “These types of joint training duty counterparts, we realize exercises demonstrate the dual- how important interagency use value of the Air National cooperation is when disaster Guard – continue to deliver strikes; that is why we along with homeland forces to the nation, our civilian partners participate states, territories, and district in Photo by Master Sgt. William Gizara in these field training exercises. times of need, and strengthen Members of the New York Air NationalGuard’s 139th Aeromedical Evacuation … When disaster strikes, like a enduring relationships at home Squadron, the Tennessee Air National Guard’s 118th Medical Group, and the Albany Stratton Veterans Affairs Medical Center carry “patients”, made up Hurricane Sandy, we are better and abroad,” said Lt. Col. Brian from the New York , from the staging area tent to an LC-130 prepared to operate effectively Backus, 139th AES commander. Hercules aircraft during an exercise at Stratton Air National Guard Base, and seamlessly in a joint The National Disaster Medical Scotia, New York. Fall/Winter 2015 13 Domestic Ops

Tech. Sgt. Michael Eldred instructs a firefighter with the 109th Airlift Wing on how to operate a skid steer Aug. 12, 2015, at Stratton Air National Guard Base, New York. The skid steers are part of the equipment package the 109th AW received as part of the debris clearance package to support domestic operations. The 109th Logistic Readiness Squadron’s Vehicle Maintenance Flight has been training members throughout the base on the equipment received. 109th AW gains capability for debris removal Story and photos by Tech. Sgt. Catharine Schmidt 109th AW Public Affairs

he 109th Airlift Wing is well known for its polar operations in both Antarctica and Greenland supporting the National TScience Foundation; but being part of the Air National Guard means the unit is also a first choice for homeland operations, including natural disaster response, and the 109th AW stands ready to respond when needed. Recently a new tasking came down to all Air National Guard units for debris clearance as part of natural disaster response. With it, came all the equipment needed to fulfill this task - chain saws, skid steers, rakes, shovels, safety gear and much more. A debris clearance team consisting of 109th AW members is now fully trained on the equipment and ready to go. Tech. Sgt. Brian Kissinger, a firefighter with the 109th Airlift Wing, operates a “In 2010 it was indicated that equipment was needed by some skid steer during training Aug. 12, 2015, at Stratton Air National Guard Base, units to support airfield and route debris cleanup,” said Maj. Jason New York. The skid steers are part of the equipment package the 109th Zeliph, Directorate of Operations (J3) Operations and Plans officer at AW received as part of the debris clearance package to support domestic Joint Force Headquarters in Latham. operations. See Capability, page 16 14 The Skibird Domestic Ops

Photo by Tech. Sgt. Catharine Schmidt Staff Sgt. Jennifer Bristol participates in the 109th Fire Department’s search and rescue team’s confined space training at Stratton Air National Photo by Master Sgt. William Gizara Guard Base, New York, on Sept. 17, 2015. The The 109th Fire Department trains on vehicle extraction Oct. 3, 2015, at 12-person search and rescue team trains monthly Stratton Air National Guard Base, New York. on various rescue techniques. NYANG firefighters conduct joint search and rescue training Story and photo by Tech. Sgt. Catharine Schmidt 109th AW Public Affairs irefighters from the New York Air National Guard’s 109thAirlift Wing, F106th Rescue Wing, and 105th AW, from Scotia, , and Newburgh respectively, met up at Camp Smith, New York, on Oct. 20, after convoying from their respective bases to complete three days of joint search and rescue training. The 109th Fire Department’s urban search and rescue team, the lead USAR within the New York Air National Guard, is currently the only self-sufficient fully capable mobile VIDEO unit in the Air National Guard. “As we stand now, we are mobile-ready to Click the arrow to watch the video go anywhere, anytime,” said Master Sgt. Brian Kissinger, 109th Fire Department assistant story, shot and edited by Master chief of operations. Sgt. William Gizara. See Rescue, page 16

Fall/Winter 2015 15 Domestic Ops Capability years ago, its Prime BEEF unit Chainsaw Basic Coursework for more training – this time with was eliminated. 15 members of the 109th AW at the 109th Fire Department’s “Over the years, more equipment “Most of these packages went Stratton. The timing couldn’t have 13-person search and rescue team has been added. All of the air to a Civil Engineering Squadron been better, as the wing received as they taught them how to operate wings in the nation have now that had a Prime BEEF unit,” a request from Schenectady the skid steers. been equipped with the debris Schaible said. “It doesn’t come County’s airport authority to “Our job is to search and locate clearance package.” with manpower – it’s strictly an remove some trees that were victims in any natural disasters, “It’s an Air Force-funded UTC equipment UTC.” blocking their view of the ramp. building collapses – anything (unit type code) for domestic The Vehicle Maintenance “We partnered with of the sort,” said Tech. Sgt. operations,” said Chief Master Sgt. Flight was tasked to develop the Schenectady County and used Adam Myers, a 109th firefighter Mark Schaible, 109th Logistics capability needed. “We had to this as a training event for the and member of the search and Readiness Squadron’s Vehicle figure out how to do this without team,” Schaible said. “We cleared rescue team. “We have numerous Maintenance superintendent. A having these 26 people,” Schaible all of the tree line over a three- specialties including rope rescue, UTC is a package consisting of said. “The driving factor for using week period. It was at no cost to vehicle extraction, and structural either equipment or personnel to vehicle maintenance is that my Schenectady County or Stratton collapse. support specific missions. “If the mechanics are already qualified Air National Guard Base, and “This kind of training here with Air National Guard was needed operators on all the equipment. we got training out of it for the the skid steers gives us another anywhere in the state to clear roads So to get this program up and team. We decided it was not only skill in our pockets to respond to for first responders and power running, it just made sense to do a great opportunity to do it, but get disaster situations,” he said. Not companies, the intent is that initial it that way.” training at the same time.” only can the search and rescue response force would go out and Vehicle Maintenance began “We should take every team now use this equipment if start clearing the roads of trees and recruiting people from throughout opportunity we can to garner needed, they are also qualified to debris - anything that’s blocking the base to be part of the debris goodwill within the community, be on the debris clearance team. responders from getting to a site.” clearance team and then started and not just from a political stand “Our vehicles, equipment What the 109th was initially training them on how to use the point but because it is the right and personnel are fully ready missing was the 26-person UTC, equipment. They reached out to thing to do,” said Master Sgt. to go,” Schaible said. Vehicle assigned to Prime Base Engineer the New York Guard for training Scott Bailey of the 109th Medical Maintenance will continue Emergency Force (BEEF) on chain saw operations. On June Group who volunteered to be part to conduct more training squadrons. During the 109th 16, New York Guard 1st Sgt. of the tree clearing team. opportunities so more 109th AW Civil Engineer Squadron’s reset Robert Rathburn conducted the Vehicle Maintenance conducted members are available to respond. Rescue steep environment in which a ideal location for the units to come operations. In a real-world person is primarily supported together as it is the central location situation, the search and rescue “This exercise was a proof by a rope system. “Breaching between Scotia and Long Island, assets throughout the state would of concept for our USAR and breaking is like if a building and also had the environment the be activated. “Our goal is to be out mission set,” said Lt. Col. Robert were to collapse, we would teams needed to complete the the door in four hours ... This is Donaldson, 109th Civil Engineer cut through the concrete using training they wouldn't be able to huge training. We are now training Squadron commander. “The different methods,” Kissinger get at home station, including the together and learning how each collaboration efforts among the said. Along with the rescue cliff they used for the high angle unit works. This is our first joint 109th, 106th and 105th AW training, three Airmen from the training. training exercise.” USAR teams helped streamline 109th Vehicle Maintenance Flight “We don’t get the ability to do “A special thanks goes out our existing convoy capabilities who convoyed down with the this type of training at home, and to the Camp Smith leadership and also helped refine our high firefighters, trained the 106th (because of that) the skills are for allowing us the opportunity angle rescue tactics, techniques on skid steer operation. The diminishing; if we don't continue to use their facilities and to and procedures. The USAR skid steers are part of the debris to practice it, we're going to lose the multitalented Airmen who members were able to share their clearance package the 109th AW the skill-set,” Nizza said. He said made this event a huge success,” valuable skill-sets with each obtained earlier in the year. this joint exercise gave them the Donaldson said. “I have no doubt other, and worked together as an “A lot of my guys haven't had opportunity to continue their that the support and training we integrated team, which made this training on the debris clearance training to keep the domestic received here will pay dividends training opportunity reach far kits that all the units have,” said operations mission going, “and when our USAR teams are beyond ordinary expectations.” Senior Master Sgt. James Nizza, it also builds the partnership with called upon for their life-saving Once at Camp Smith, the 106th Fire Department chief. the other state units.” skill-sets during real-world Airmen completed high angle “(The 109th) brought their (skid The Airmen agreed the events. We’re actively planning rescue training as well as steer) and now we're getting all of importance of this type of training additional collaborative training breaching and breaking training. my guys certified on it.” in keeping the Air National Guard opportunities in the very near High angle is defined as a very Camp Smith proved to be the the first choice for homeland future.” 16 The Skibird Airman Development 109th Communications Flight Professional Development Day By Senior Master Sgt. Greg Mihalko 109th Communications Flight embers of the 109th Communications Flight Mvisited the State University at Albany College of Nanoscale Science and Engineering Aug. 21, 2015, to gain insight regarding major advances in micro technology and learn about the vision of combining government, academia and industry. During the visit, tour guides explained the primary goal of the College of Nanoscale Science and Engineering is to propel New York to a leadership position in technology and economic development.

There are two key drivers constituting Courtesy photo this vision; using an investment of taxpayer Airmen with the 109th Communications Flight visited the State University at Albany College of Nanoscale funds and the leveraging of private-public Science and Engineering on Aug. 21, 2015. partnerships. “I have often heard about the College of Nanoscale Science and Engineering, but in our backyard.” Some ideas discussed included using micro I did not realize how much research was At the end of the tour, Airmen with the technology to perform research at the South accomplished there,” said Senior Airman 109th CF gathered for a brainstorming Pole, developing micro-drones for research Collin Eustis, 109th CF network engineer. strategy session to discuss nanotechnology and weapons, and creating micro tools to “It was great to see in person all of the applications toward the mission of the 109th perform maintenance on the base network technological advances taking place right Airlift Wing and the military as a whole. infrastructure or even aircraft maintenance.

Airmen with the 109th Communications Flight visited the State University at Albany College of Nanoscale Science and Engineering on Aug. 21, 2015.

Courtesy photo

Fall/Winter 2015 17 Community Patriot Ruckmarch – pride, one step at a time By Lt. Col. Benson “Rucksack” Louie 109th Medical Group

yself and three other 109th (Right) Lt. Col. Benson Airmen wanted to do something Louie, Master Sgt. Candace Stefanik, Tech. Sgt. Ryan special for our fellow veterans, M Milton and Lt. Col. Bret Wood so on a beautiful Saturday morning we ruck participated in the Patriot marched 24.8 miles (which included about Ruckmarch on Sept. 19, 10 miles uphill with an average 17 percent 2015, to help raise funds for the Heroes at Home Project. grade) to help raise money for the Heroes at Home Veterans support organization. On Sept. 19, Tech. Sgt. Ryan Milton, Master Sgt. Candace Stefanik and Lt. Col. Bret Wood joined me in participating in the Patriot Ruckmarch. The goal of the event was not just to fundraise for the Heroes at Photos courtesy of Home Project, but also to raise awareness of David Hyldelund, what veterans go through by having people Heroes at Home endure “a walk in their shoes”. The event volunteer succeeded in both areas. The morning was busy with pre-start events. After checking in and signing a waiver, we weighed our rucksacks (the rucksack weight standard was 35 pounds) (Below) Tech. Sgt. Ryan and checked our equipment and water. After Milton and Master Sgt. Candace Stefanik carry the opening remarks from Rensselaer County guidons during the Patriot Executive Kathy Jimino and retired Army Ruckmarch. The 24.8-mile Command Sgt. Maj. Frank Wicks and a course started at the Sullivan- group portrait, we set off of on the foot march Jones Poestenkill VFW with the turnaround point at with guidons in hand. Grafton Fire Hall. The course started at the Sullivan- Jones Poestenkill VFW, wound through Poestenkill on County Route 351, up State Route 2 toward Grafton with a turnaround halfway point at the Grafton Fire Hall, and then back. Heroes at Home is one of 11 New York State funded programs providing peer support to anyone who has served in the military, as well as their families, regardless of discharge status, era in which they served or combat experience. Since 2012, they have partnered with the VA, the VFW and American Legion, and community providers to ensure that Veterans have access to services, and to provide mutual support as they navigate the reintegration process. Please go to www.heroesathomerensco.com for more details on what they offer. Thanks to all who supported us and we’ll see y’all out there next year!

18 The Skibird Community Air Force Band performs in local area By Tech. Sgt. Catharine Schmidt 109th AW Public Affairs he U.S. Air Force concert as “A pleasant mix of Band, the premiere patriotic favorites, an instrumental musical organization soloist performing a modern work T Photo by Master Sgt. William Gizara of the U.S. Air Force, was in for clarinet, and the second half the local area recently as part of will feature the Singing Sergeants, The Singing Sergeants perform at Queensbury High School on Oct. 23, 2015. They joined The Concert Band for a 10-day Fall tour throughout New a 10-day Fall tour throughout the official chorus of the United England. Both ensembles are part of the U.S. Air Force Base, the premiere New England. States Air Force.” musical organization of the U.S. Air Force. The Concert Band and “It was fantastic,” said Senior Tech. Sgt. Brian Wahrlich, Before arriving in New York, Singing Sergeants, two of the Master Sgt. Jeffrey Trottier, of an Albany native. “He was the tour started in Boston on Oct. six Band ensembles, performed the 109th Airlift Wing at Stratton recognized, and it was great to 15 and then various locations in Saratoga, Albany, Hudson and Air National Guard Base who see and hear his solo. I’m proud throughout Massachusetts Queensbury on Oct. 21-23. attended the concert Oct. 21 at to be in the Air Force for sure,” followed by Connecticut. Their “Our goal is to honor our Saratoga Springs High School. Trottier said. final stop on their tour was St. veterans, inspire patriotism to “From the start of ‘The Star- Along with Saratoga Springs Albans, Vermont, on Oct. 25. our American citizenry, and to Spangled Banner’ by the Singing High School, the Band also The U.S. Air Force Band, positively impact the global Sergeants, the Air Force Band had performed at the College of St. based out of Washington, D.C., community through our music,” a crisp sound, nostalgic theme, Rose inAlbany, Columbia Green comprises 180 players and six said Senior Master Sgt. Phillip exciting moments, reminiscent Community College in Hudson, different musical ensembles to Krzywicki, a French hornist with with a take-back in time but most and their final performance in cover a variety of music genres, the Concert Band. of all relaxing.” New York was at Queensbury including jazz and rock. Krzywicki described the Also on stage was clarinetist High School.

Photo by Master Sgt. William Gizara The Concert Band performs at Queensbury High School on Oct. 23, 2015. They joined The Singing Sergeants for a 10-day Fall tour throughout New England. Both ensembles are part of the U.S. Air Force Base, the premiere musical organization of the U.S. Air Force. Fall/Winter 2015 19 Wellness Center Wellness team soaring to new heights Wellness Center Staff to Hanscom Air Force Base, became an developed for civilian, clinical Massachusetts, to train alongside Air Force providers in our communities, our 109th Wellness seasoned AFRPMs for one week credentialed educates and informs of the Team has been hard and get trained on the most up- provider, military culture, DOD clinical at work over the Y to-date Transition Assistance adding best practice and evidence based summer and fall, sharpening and the Air Force Family another level treatment methodologies so that their skills, expertise and they can better serve our military deepening their relationships Integrated Results and Statistical of clinical Young members. with community providers so Training. In mid-November, support to the We are proud to announce that we can keep our members Casey participated in the New 109th Guard that one of the brightest stars and their families, tooled up for York State Family Programs Medical Unit (GMU) and the in the Wellness success! Professional Development 109th members. In November Center, Capt. Colleen Casey, 109th Airman Workshop in Niagara Falls, 2015, Young participated in Lynsey Cross and Family Readiness Program New York. the Center for Deployment Manager Kelly Young, LCSW-R, Psychology week long training is definitely participated 109th Director of Psychological hosted by the New York State soaring to new in SafeTALK, Health participated in a Department of Military and heights; setting a training comprehensive training at Naval Affairs and sponsored in her sights on sponsored by Andrews AFB, Maryland, in conjunction with the New York a career in Cross LivingWorks, August with leadership from Air State National Guard, The Center active duty Air Force, Cross was selected by focusing on Casey National Guard and Directors for Deployment Psychology, Suicide of Psychological Health Suny New Paltz and the New active duty Air force as part of Prevention and Intervention. representing all air wings in the York State Star Behavioral their Medical Service Corps. In October, Casey traveled United States. In October, Young Health initiative. The training Congratulations, Captain Cross! Airmen affected by mandatory TAP By Colleen Casey covers resources and benefits a one-time requirement, so if There are exemptions for this 109th Airman and Family available to those affected. I am deployed again, Airmen would portion. Those who are retiring Readiness Program Manager currently scheduling briefings for not have to attend a second after 20 years or more and those the following times: time. This workshop doesn’t coming off Title 10 deployments andatory 2nd Tuesday of the month at apply to traditional guardsmen confirming civilian employment, requirements 1 p.m. in the Security Forces and although not mandatory, acceptance into school or who Mthrough the Classroom is available (at the member’s have previously attended the Transition Assistance Program 3rd Thursday of the month cost) for retiring technicians and DOLEW do not need to attend (TAP) are currently in place for at 9 a.m. in the Security Forces spouses/significant others. Days 3-5. Airmen retiring, separating or Classroom Workshops are held once a An optional two-day track coming off a Title 10 deployment Saturday of UTAs at 1 p.m. in month at Hanscom Air Force is available for those seeking of more than 180 days. The three the LRS Conference Room Base, Massachusetts; West Point; to enroll in college or graduate requirements include a pre- All br i e f i n g s ar e by Newburgh AFB; and Saratoga school, obtain a technical license separation briefing, a TAP Goals, appointment only, and locations Navy Base. or certification, or start their own Plan, Success (GPS) workshop are subject to change. The workshops cover in-depth business. and a capstone meeting. TAP GPS Workshop: information of resources and Capstone: Pre Separation Briefing: Once you have attended the benefits. A sample agenda is as The final requirement is a Wing Airman and Family pre separation briefing, AGR follows: 30-minute Capstone appointment Program Readiness offices are retirees and those coming off Day 1: VA Benefits with the wing Airman and Family required to conduct a 90-minute a Title 10 deployment of more Day 2: MOC Crosswalk and Readiness Program office. I briefing for any Airman who is than 180 days will be registered Financial Planning need to have eyes on and verify retiring, separating or coming for a five-day workshop Day 3-5: Department of that Airmen have completed all off a Title 10 deployment of outside of Stratton Air National Labor Employment Workshop requirements from the TAP GPS more than 180 days. The briefing Guard Base. The workshop is (DOLEW) workshop. 20 The Skibird FSS Notes MyVector provides a platform to do so. MyVector Duty history and record data in MyVector SGLI Traumatic is retrieved from either the Military Personnel The Secretary of the Air Force and the Data System (MilPDS) for military personnel Injury Protection Chief of Staff of the Air Force have placed or the Defense Civilian Personnel Data mentoring at the top of their priorities. System (DCPDS) for civilians. The DCPDS Program (TSGLI) MyVector - a Web-based, mentoring and data is not currently as robust as the data in development tool custom built for the Air MilPDS and also has data issues that are Servicemembers’ Group Life Insurance Force - supports this priority. The fundamental being resolved. For this reason, the career Traumatic Injury Protection (TSGLI) role of mentoring is to develop well-rounded, pyramid is not as helpful for a civilian at provides automatic traumatic injury professional Airmen by sharing resources, this time, but it can be used by the mentor to coverage to all servicemembers covered expertise, values, competencies, perspectives show the standard career field and also can under the SGLI program. It provides short- and attitudes. Air Force Manpower, Personnel be used as the basis for a career conversation. term financial assistance to severely injured and Services (AF/A1) enhanced MyVector Additionally, Air Force Reserve and Air servicemembers and veterans to assist them (formerly known as the Career Path Tool) to National Guard personnel who are also in their recovery from traumatic injuries. assist Airmen in creating strong mentoring civilians may initially only have access to TSGLI is not only for combat injuries, but partnerships while being actively involved their civilian MyVector profile. Reserve provides insurance coverage for injuries in their career development. The SecAF is and Guard personnel who want to view incurred on or off duty. anticipating that commander emphasis and their other record should put in a help desk Eligibility the reconfigured, standardized platform for ticket request, and technicians will respond If you are automatically insured under mentoring will promote career development to change the data the member wishes to full-time SGLI, you are automatically and support Diversity and Inclusion, review. MyVector increased capabilities for covered by TSGLI. TSGLI coverage applies Comprehensive Airman Fitness, and Total the Reserve and Guard in Fall 2015 with to active duty members, reservists, National Force Integration initiatives. the release of configurations that enable Guardsmen, funeral honors duty and one- MyVector is for all Airmen - civilians, personnel to choose between viewing their day muster duty. regular Air Force, Guard and Reserve can military and civilian records. In addition to To be eligible for payment of TSGLI, you all benefit from the mentoring, knowledge being able to choose between their military must meet all of the following requirements: sharing and career planning capabilities and civilian records, future iterations will also •You must be insured by SGLI when you within MyVector. Mentors and mentees incorporate component specific career paths experience a traumatic injury can review past experience, plan for career and bring Reserve Career Field Managers/ •You must incur a scheduled loss and that development and use tools like the bullet Major Command Functional Managers into loss must be a direct result of a traumatic tracker, discussion forums, and the “Find A the system. Sister service personnel and injury Mentor” capability. In cases where Airmen political appointees will not have access to •You must have suffered the traumatic cannot find a mentor through the match their duty histories or records, as MyVector injury prior to midnight of the day that you capability that meets their desired criteria, does not have access to their duty records. separate from the uniformed services they can by-name request a mentor who is MyVector can be accessed through a link •You must suffer a scheduled loss within registered in MyVector using that individual’s on the Air Force portal or accessed directly two years (730 days) of the traumatic injury email address through the “Direct Connect” from MyVector. Initial registration will •You must survive for a period of not tab. If the email address is not found, the require a Common Access Card and your less than seven full days from the date of Airman should request the desired mentor social security number. SSNs, in combination the traumatic injury (The seven-day period register in MyVector in order to establish a with the Airman’s CAC, enable a seamless begins on the date and time of the traumatic mentoring relationship within the site. We login and access to the personnel records injury, as measured by Zulu [Greenwich encourage Airmen to return regularly, as new stored in MilPDS and DCPDS. Without this Meridian] time and ends 168 full hours later) mentors are registering and building profiles vital information, This benefit is also provided retroactively daily. Mentor/mentee relationships are private, MyVector would be unable to link for Servicemembers who incurred severe and their relationship/communications are not your session with your underlying data losses as a result of traumatic injuries visible to any others. Mentors are selected (specifically education and duty experience). incurred between Oct. 7, 2001, and Nov. 30, by mentees based on whom they admire/ The development team has ensured that all 2005, regardless of the geographic location respect, have career field expertise, or who SSNs are encrypted both in transit (over the where the injury occurred, and regardless of have appropriate insight into professional network) and at rest (when stored on a server). whether coverage was in effect at the time of and personal development. Sister-service Additionally, the Twenty- - injury. Effective Oct. 1, 2011, the Veterans’ and political appointees can also register and Air Forces Cyber - has completed a review of Benefit Improvement Act of 2010 removed search for or become mentors. MyVector is the security of the system as well as ensured the requirement that injuries during the not mandatory, but the SecAF encourages all Information Assurance requirements have retroactive period be incurred in Operations everyone to “seek a mentor, be a mentor;” been met. Enduring or Iraqi Freedom. Fall/Winter 2015 21 Spotlight

David V. Stott Retirements Scholarship winner May - December 2015 Senior Airman Isidora Monteparo, 109th Medical Group, Col. Kurt Bedore was selected as the winner of the 2015 David V. Stott Lt. Col. Paul Bernasconi Scholarship. Monteparo is currently enrolled at the Univer- Lt. Col. Ernie Grey sity of Albany. Tech. Sgt. David Stott was a member of the Lt. Col. Matthew LeClair 139th Aeromedical Evacuation Squadron as well as the Lt. Col. Mark Sturgi 109th MDG. Stott passed away in 2003 following a short Capt. Thomas Feeley illness. His parents continue to carry on his memory by of- Capt. Bernadette Weaver fering a scholarship in his name each year. Lt. Kenneth Walther File Photo Chief Master Sgt. Robert Michaels Chief Master Sgt. William Nolin Hall named UCA of the Year Chief Master Sgt. Edward Warner Tech. Sgt. Richard Hall was selected as the 109th Airlift Senior Master Sgt. Wing Unit Career Advisor of the year for 2015. “TSgt Mark Olena Richard Hall has done an outstanding job in supporting his Master Sgt. Daniel Magdziuk unit, commanders and most importantly his members,” said Master Sgt. Ray Palmer Master Sgt. Joanna Walters, Retention Office manager. Master Sgt. Collin Rost “TSgt Hall is a wealth of knowledge and is always willing Master Sgt. Misty Straus to help out. The Unit Career Advisor Program is a huge Tech. Sgt. Andrew Faulkner additional duty. All Unit Career Advisors put in a lot of extra Tech. Sgt. Gary Whitworth time to support their members’ careers.” Staff Sgt. Paul Bonificio Staff Sgt. Kevin Couture Staff Sgt. Anthony Schultz Staff Sgt. Brian Smith

File Photo

Awards Meritorious Service Medal Awarded to any member of the Air Force Achievement Medal Lt. Col. Ty A. Randall - MSG Armed Forces of the United States Awarded to Air Force personnel for outstanding Lt. Col. Christian E. Sander - OG who distinguishes themselves by achievement or meritorious service rendered Maj. Patric R. Brew - AS either outstanding achievement or specifically on behalf of the Air Force. It may Chief Master Sgt. Edward L. Warner - JFHQ meritorious service to the United also be awarded for acts of courage lesser Tech. Sgt. Andrew D. Ham - AS States. than for award of the Air Force Commendation Medal (AFCM).

Air Force Commendation Medal Awarded to members of the Armed Capt. James R. VanWormer - CES Forces of the United States who, Capt. Joshua R. Choquette - AW Tech. Sgt. Robert C. Jones - AS while serving in any capacity with Tech. Sgt. Jason P. Gardinier - MXG Tech. Sgt. Michael J. Peckham - SFS the Air Force after March 24, 1958, Staff Sgt. Cheryl L. Zwijacz - LRS Tech. Sgt. Kristina N. Squillo - JFHQ shall have distinguished them- Senior Airman Benjamin M. McCabe - MXS Staff Sgt. Nicholas J. Robles - FSS selves by meritorious achievement Senior Airman Manuel L. Morales - SFS and service. The degree of merit Senior Airman Jamey D. Paddock - OSS must be distinctive, though it need Airman 1st Class James P. Cappadora - MXS not be unique. May 2, 2015 - Nov. 1, 2015

22 The Skibird Spotlight

Officer Promotions Colonel Major First Lieutenant Jeffrey L. Hedges - MSG Daniel W. Urband - AS Mark S. Fuller - AS Salem K. Jacobsen - LRS Lieutenant Colonel Captain Matthew C. Rinaldi - LRS David A. Panzera - AS Kristen M. Cummings - MDG Richard J. VanPatten - AS

Enlisted Promotions Chief Master Sergeant Staff Sergeant Senior Airman Joseph V. Cerniglia - MXG Andrew T. Archambault - MXM Dante M. Barrera - LRS John W. Lawlor - AMXS Seth J. Bateman - AES Morgan K. Boldish - LRS Rachel L. Bentley - FSS Anthony P. Brown - MXS Senior Master Sergeant Molly A. Best - MXS Justin K. Candee - MXS Jamie L. Hill - AS Robert T. Buehler - LRS Sarah E. Chandler - AES Michael J. Byerwalters Jr. - LRS Gabriela Diaz - MDG Paris M. Clement - STUF Francis T. DiCaprio - SFS Master Sergeant Jonathan M. Corcoran - SFS Jarrod L. Fowler - MDG Albert Alvarado - JFHQ Jared M. Diehl - CF Frederick K. Freeman - SFS Douglas S. Anderson - AS Jeremy F. Frye - STUF Michael Hack III - CF Jason P. Babiarz - LRS David M. Gillis - OSS Derek R. Hakes - AMXS Jason R. Bull - AS James G. Healey - AMXS Elijah R. Hammondwood - AES Geoff G. Cerrone - AS Brandon L. Hubal - MXS Jacob E. Hemstreet - AMXS Zachary A. Falle - LRS Laura E. James - STUF Daniel C. Hall - AMXS Adam C. Helligrass - AMXS Derek E. Jubert - CES Jonathan T. Hooker - AMXS Thomas G. Houck - LRS Stephanie Lambert - AES Bradford J. Jollie - MXS Brian K. Kissinger - CES Nghiem N. Le - LRS Paul J. Lafond - MXS Michael A. Mattera Jr. - MXS Sarah E. Ledger - FSS Gerald M. Mesick - LRS Mark S. Milian - CPTF William J. Lee - MXS Isidora I. Monteparo - MDG Amie J. Moore - LRS Zachery G. Lettko - AMXS Marianna R. OBrien - MDG Brian T. Rulison - AMXS Todd M. Lewis - MXS Wyatt G. Peters - AS Jeremy B. Shultis - MXS Janath W. Madden - MXS Perry M. Rayner - FSS Henry R. Smith - CF Daniel E. Marchand - CES Luis L. Robitaille - SFS William J. Medina - LRS Joshua T. Speziale - CF Technical Sergeant Travis J. Mihok - AES Nicholas S. Tousignant - CF Trevor N. Britt - AS James W. Olson - CES Cole E. Vanderlinden - CPTF Stephen E. Brooks - MXS Brian C. Pelletier - CPTF Brett W. Voelker - AMXS Stephen D. Brown - AMXS Jodie L. Ruther - CES Ryan M. Burnah - AES Cameron N. Staulters - MXS Airman 1st Class James E. Cronce - MXS Daniel W. Street - AES Dante J. Angerosa - STUF David J. Cunningham - AMXS Emmanuel A. Terrazas - STUF Kyle P. Bachem - LRS Joshua W. Hague - OSS Laurence A. Truscello - AW Anthony N. Bartlett - STUF Dan M. James - AS Daniel V. Urbanski - STUF James W. McPartlin IV - STUF Robert J. Loomis - AES Kevin M. Shufeltmange - STUF Derek J. Monaghan - FSS Adam W. Myers - CES Christopher M. Pierson - CES Airman Kyle J. Ray - AS Bianca D. Bustamante - AES Daniel R. Russell - MXM David Scott - MXS Kristina N. Squillo - JFHQ May 2, 2015 - Nov. 1, 2015

Fall/Winter 2015 23 109th Airlift Wing 1 Air National Guard Road Scotia, NY 12302-9752

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Mission statement Vision statement The 109th Airlift Wing employs the Department of Defense’s only ski-equipped Unparalleled tactical airlift to remote aircraft to conduct operations in remote Polar Regions. We train, equip and polar environments, propelled by highly deploy premier, combat-ready Airmen to support state and national objectives. trained, combat-ready Airmen.