The History of the 6Th Ops Group - Page 10

Vol. 40, No. 40 Friday, October 7, 2011

The history of the 6th Ops Group - page 10

File photo An anonymous armorer of the 6th Bombardment Group makes a pre-flight check on the bomb load of a B-29 before one of the many missions flown from North Field, Tinian, in the final years of World War II. The 6th Bombardment Group flew 75 missions from the small island, located near Saipan and Guam in the Northern Mariana chain, from February through August 1945. They earned four campaign stars for the group’s Asiatic- Pacific Theater Ribbon and two Distinguished Unit Citations. COMMANDER’s CORNER Proving you’re the ‘best’; some wing standouts by Col. Lenny Richoux rocks ‘till Comm rolls!” 6th Air Mobility Wing commander We proved last week that we can keep those indispensable systems safe from attack and Have you ever heard me say that you’re part exploitation thanks to the 6th Communica- of the best Air Mobility Wing on the face of the tions Squadron, led by Lt. Col. Samantha planet? Well you proved it again. Ray, the Wing’s Information Protection effort The Defense Information Systems Agency headed by Rob Cowart, and dozens of out- evaluated the 6th Air Mobility Wing last week standing performers like our Wing Information on our computer network systems during our Assurance Manager Pam Hartnagel, and Command Cyber Readiness Inspection. This Wing Emission Security Manager Staff Sgt. was no drive-by snapshot either. The inspec- Liana Buck. tion team looked deep into the physical and More good news: our 6th Force Support Col. Lenny Richoux, 6th Air Mobility Wing com- virtual security of our systems for deficiencies Squadron’s food service team recently ex- mander, and Col. David Pavey, 927th Air Refu- and discrepancies. Their primary goal: make posed one of the secrets behind its talent for eling Wing commander, sign donation forms sure we’re taking all necessary measures to ef- feeding us. It’s definitely a challenge for the for the Suncoast Combined Federal Campaign fectively operate and protect the systems and Diner’s Reef Food Service Team to knock out while Capt. Sean Wilson, 6th AMW Suncoast networks we depend on for safe mission accom- more than 25,000 fantastic meals each month CFC representative, assists at MacDill Air plishment. so human fuel tanks across the base are well Force Base, Sept. 29. CFC is known to be the And you know what? We are! They gave satisfied. It’s easier when you have talent like most inclusive workplace giving campaign in our classified networks and systems a rating of Senior Airman Nicole Ford on your team. the world. “Excellent.” Now that’s huge, but it wasn’t the She was recently part of the Aramark Culinary best thing the inspectors told us. They also let Excellence challenge, something a bit like you’d 6th Operations Group. Lt. Gen. Rusty Find- us know they rated our unclassified networks see on “Top Chef” or “Chopped.” Based on her ley, Air Mobility Command’s vice commander, and systems as “Outstanding.” Wow! ACE performance, you may very well see her has taken his fini-flight after 35 years in blue. It’s easy to take for granted the profession- on one of those programs one day. She walked He’s written a moving farewell commentary als who keep our networks and systems hum- away as the winner among six competitors. worth your time at www.amc.af.mil. ming. If you ever find yourself leaning that Well done, Airman Ford! Best wishes, General and Mrs. Findley. way, though, try getting your mission done for Finally, this week marks the close of a great You’ll always be welcome here. just one day while fasting from all things IT. I Air Force career in service to our country. Some As always, I am proud to serve with all the guarantee you’ll wake up from that cold-sweat of you may still remember this senior leader men and women of the 6th in the finest Air nightmare screaming passionately, “nobody from his days here as the commander of the Mobility Wing on the face of the planet!

COMMANDER’S ACTION LINE The Action Line provides a two-way communication between the 6th Air Mobility Wing commander and the MacDill community. A 24-hour recording service is provided so personnel may submit questions, concerns or com- ments. Call the Action Line at 828-INFO (4636) or e-mail macdillwingcom- [email protected]

fense, the Department of the Air Force or the 6th Air Mobil- may be obtained by calling 259-7455. MacDill Thunderbolt ity Wing. News items for the MacDill Thunderbolt can be submit- Publisher: Denise Palmer The appearance of advertising in this publication, in- ted to the 6th Air Mobility Wing Public Affairs office, Bldg. Editor: Nick Stubbs cluding inserts or supplements, does not constitute en- 25, MacDill AFB, FL 33621, or call the MacDill Thunderbolt dorsement by the Department of Defense, the Department staff at 828-2215. Email: [email protected]. of the Air Force, 6th Air Mobility Wing or Sunbelt Newspa- Deadline for article submissions is noon, Thursdays to The MacDill Thunderbolt is published by Sunbelt News- pers, Inc., of the products or service advertised. appear in the next week’s publication. Articles received af- papers, Inc., a private firm in no way connected with the Everything advertised in this publication shall be made ter deadline may be considered for future use. All submis- U.S. Air Force. This commercial enterprise newspaper is an available for purchase, use, or patronage without regard to sions are considered for publication based on news value authorized publication for distribution to members of the race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, marital status, and timeliness. U.S. military services on MacDill. Contents of the MacDill physical handicap, political affiliation or any other non-mer- Every article and photograph is edited for accuracy, clar- Thunderbolt are not necessarily the official views of, or it factor of the purchaser, user, or patron. ity, brevity, conformance with the “Associated Press Style- endorsed by the U.S. government, the Department of De- Display advertising or classified advertising information book and Libel Manual” and Air Force Instruction 35-101. NEWS/FEATURES Commentary Your T-bolt Today News/Features: page 4 70 years and still growing strong by Bob Hughes In addition, we will again be rebuilding 6th Civil Engineer Squadron director another major roadway. The section of South Flu vaccine here Boundary Blvd. from Hangar Loop to Zemke In April of this year we celebrated the 70th Ave. will be widened to two lanes in both di- News/Features: page 4 birthday of MacDill Air Force Base. Our long rections. MacDill was also fortunate to have history began in 1941, which means our facili- project investments that support our fitness Road closure ties and infrastructure were constructed during programs. A new quarter-mile track will be con- the 1940s. We have had many upgrades since structed behind the fitness center and the jog- then, replaced several facilities and increased ging trail will see improvements from the Joint News/Features: page 10 our electrical distribution systems, but we still Communication Support Element area through have a way to go to revitalize our plant. Over housing. History of the 6th Ops Group the last eight years the Air Force has invested Along with our construction efforts, the land- heavily to improve the quality and reliability of scape (and view) will change along Bayshore. this 70-year-old base in order to support our de- The oldest remaining housing units on base, manding mission long into the future; hopefully known as Wherry housing, will be demolished News/Features: page 16 another 70 years. It’s hard to believe that anoth- in the next several months as our privatization er fiscal year has passed. From a civil engineer partners complete the final new homes needed Pigskin Picker standpoint, it has been another continuous year for our required number of homes on base. This of changes, increased investments and needed will conclude a four-year construction effort to improvements. replace the majority of the previously govern- Chapel Events for October

Protestant Services: Catholic Services: MacDill Community: page 17 Sunday: 9:00 a.m. Praise Service Mon-Thurs: 12:10 p.m. Daily Mass 12:00 p.m. Gospel Service Saturday: 4:30 p.m. Confessions, We are working extremely hard to keep these ment owned housing on base. We will also be 5:30 p.m. Mass Sunday: 10:30 a.m. Mass

Catholic Religious Education 2011-2012

Sundays, Starting 11 September from 9:00 Wednesdays, Starting 7 September AM to 10:15 AM in Annex 2. Cost is $30 for Family Dinner @ 5:00 p.m. each child or $45 for 2 or more. Call Mrs. systems working, building for the current and demolishing the Bayshore Officer’s Club and AWANA Program 5:45 -7:15 p.m. Baggerly @ 828-8565 to register Registration: $10 / Vest & Books: $10 (per child) Call Mrs. Lavelle @ 828-8564 CBS4W (Chapel Bible Study 4 Women) Base Chapel, Annex 1 On Tuesday, 11 October @ 9:30 a.m. 11-week study using Grace for Every Trial. Chapel Annex 2 - Join us for bible study and fellowship. e-mail [email protected] future missions, replacing tired old pavement two Visiting Officer’s Quarters facilities near For more information regarding services & programs, please call the base chapel @ (813) 828-3621 Events, movies, more... or visit our website @ http://www.macdill.af.mil/macdillchapel and utility systems all at the same time. There the Davis Conference Center. Starting later are several other process improvements in coor- next year we will be constructing a new Visiting For Columbus Day holiday hours, see dination and redistribution of workload that are Quarters. also intended to improve efficiencies, effective- We often refer to “Team MacDill.” The saying our website at www.macdill.af.mil ness and just make life easier. I know you have typically is used to refer to our local representa- seen many of these projects as they progress tives from all services and other nations that through the construction process. I am quite work here. When it comes to funding invest- Fire Prevention Week Oct. 9-15 confident you anxiously await the completion of ments, awarding and executing projects, a much many of them because they create short term larger team effort is required. The team ex- inconveniences. Some are more challenging pands to include members from HQ Air Mobility Oct. 9 - 10 a.m. parade with Sparky. First than others and some are longer than others, Command, HQ Air Force and all of us that work responder and emergency vehicles will be but they are only short term in the long range at MacDill through the disruption of growth present. plan. and improvement. None of this work would Oct. 11 - 8 a.m. Sparky visits Tinker El- The books for fiscal year 2011 are closed now, be possible without the excellent coordination ementary and Sparky announces poster con- but our project work continues. The typical cycle among your engineer, contract and comptroller test winners. of investment decisions holds facility and infra- squadrons. We truly have the best working rela- Oct. 12 - 7 p.m. VIP Live Fire training, lo- structure work until the end of the fiscal year. tionship among these three entities. That part- cated at Fire Station 1. Spectators welcome! All that means is that we will be starting newly nership has enabled us to produce long-term Oct. 13 – 9 a.m. Base Exchange Fire truck funded projects in the next couple of months. improvements for all of MacDill. static display The good news is the Air Force continues to Over the next 12 to 24 months, MacDill will Oct. 14 - 9 a.m. - Fire trucks with Sparky invest in our recapitalization, but it will also continue to evolve and get the face lift both visit Child Development Center 1. come with some more inconveniences. As we above and below the ground. Fiscal year 2012 10 a.m. Fire trucks with Sparky visit move into the new fiscal year, you will see other will be more of the same daily challenges that Child Development Center 2 visible improvements taking place. This fiscal we all have come to know working at MacDill; 2 p.m. Fire Trucks with Sparky visit year we were able to award projects that will the opening of new facilities, congestion on our School Age Program greatly improve parking surfaces on base. The roads, and construction vehicles at our gates Oct. 15 – 10 a.m. Open House at Fire Sta- parking lots near the hangars will be resurfaced and parking challenges in key areas on base. tion 2 (Florida Keys Avenue) and several parking lots on the north side of the Thanks for being a key participant on the team base will be paved for the first time. and working with us for the long-term benefits NEWS/FEATURES school employees, childcare providers, children Seasonal flu vaccine here ages 6 months to 18 years, persons who care by Lt. Col. Sharon Gober for an infant under the age of 6 months, adults 6th Medical Operations Squadron commander aged 50 years or greater, adults with chronic medical conditions, pregnant women, people Influenza (flu) is a contagious respiratory ill- with weakened immune systems and persons ness caused by a virus. Seasonal flu epidem- who live with or care for persons at high risk ics occur annually in the U.S., and estimates of for flu-related complications. These high-risk flu-related events include 95 million infections, groups represent a large segment of society. In 25 million physician visits, 200,000 hospitaliza- fact, 83 percent of the United States popula- tions and an average of 36,000 deaths annually tion is included in one or more of these target in the U.S. Influenza also contributes to cardiac groups. events, premature births and low birth weight Be diligent in following preventive medicine for infants. guidelines, including frequent hand washing Courtesy photo As with many illnesses, prevention is the and use of hand sanitizer. Remember to cover Staff Sgt. Charitee McCloud, 6th Medical Group, key and immunization is the key to prevention. a cough with tissue or sneeze into your sleeve gives Mildred Linneman, of Madiera Beach, her The Advisory Committee on Immunizations (not hands!) Regular disinfection of common annual flu shot at the MacDill Clinic. Practices and the Center for Disease Control surfaces (countertops, door handles, telephones, have issued universal recommendations to vac- etc) is also important. When possible, avoid u Centers for Disease Control and Prevention cinate all adults and children over the age of 6 contact with others who are ill and stay home at http://www.cdc.gov/H1N1FLU/ months. Certain high risk groups are at greater when you feel ill. Most importantly, come see u Florida Dept of Health at http://www.doh. risk of complications from flu and should espe- us at your Medical Group and receive your flu state.fl.us/DEMO/php/FluInfo.htm H1N1 cially be targeted for immunization. Therefore, vaccine today. u Hillsborough County Flu Shot Hotline at the 6th Medical Group has begun a vaccination Additional information is available from the fol- 813-307-8073 campaign with priorities aligned in accordance lowing resources: u National Flu Hotline at 1-877-352-3581 with ACIP and CDC guidelines. u Military Vaccine Agency at http://www.vac- u MacDill Public Health Flight at 827-9601 Those priorities include healthcare workers, cines.mil/ u MacDill Immunizations Clinic at 827-9375

Road closure for SOCCENT parking project There will be a partial road closure of Great Egret Avene from King- fisher Street to behind the Clinic. The closure is necessary for construction of a new SOC- CENT parking lot. Only one-way traf- fic will be allowed through from Oct. 10 through Dec. 27, as indicated in diagram at right.

Digital mammography available at clinic gy in breast cancer screening. Medical facilities has passed the inspection without violation. by Lt. Col. Lindwood Henry like the 6th Medical group go through a rigor- The mammography staff includes, three 6th Medical Support Squadron ous inspection process to ensure they provide board certified radiologists, four registered tech- the best healthcare to their beneficiaries. nologists and an administrator. The goal of the How do you know if you are getting the best Digital mammography uses less radiation staff is to fight breast cancer through screening breast screening around? The 6th Medical and offers a dual breast cancer screening. The and ensuring early detection and treatment. Group is committed to women’s health. An ex- service also utilizes the latest computer-aided Thanks to mammography screening and ample of our commitment is our digital mam- detection to find cancer early. awareness, breast cancer deaths have decreased mography service. Annually, Food and Drug Administration in- by 1.9 percent per year in the past 10 years. Digital mammography is the latest technolo- spects the Diagnostic Imaging Mammography To get your annual mammogram, call 827- program. For the past 11 years, the program 9630 to schedule an appointment.

Welcome FTAC grads 6th Communications Squadron The following First Term Airmen have arrived A1C Taylor Blodgett: Lynnwood, Wash. to MacDill from technical school. We are excited A1C James Carlino: Grayslake, Ill. to have them at “America’s Best Air Mobility A1C Leo Gorospe: San Jose, Calif. Wing” and wish them the best! A1C Wesley McWilliams: Momence, Ill. A1C Vincent Storms: Palm Harbor, Fla. 6th Air Mobility Wing A1C Shandresha Mitchell: St Petersburg, Fla. 6th Force Support Squadron 6th Aircraft Maintenance Squadron A1C Christopher Van Dorn: Grandview, Tenn. A1C Chad Shinn: House Springs, Mo. A1C Donald Lanoux: Jacksonville, Fla. 6th Logistics Readiness Squadron A1C Joseph Rea: Tempe, Ariz. A1C Edwin Aviles: Fresno, Calif. A1C Shane Tippets: Aloha, Ore. A1C Richard Boore: St Petersburg, Fla.

6th Contracting Squadron 6th Medical Support Squadron A1C Garrick Williams: Clermont, Ala. A1C Lacey Vick: Greenville, Ala.

6th Ops Group veterans light up stories of bygone age by William Polson 6th Air Mobility Wing historian

ong before the unit we know today as the 6th Operations Group came to Florida, it had a very different mission in a very different location. LThe 6th Bombardment Group had been assigned to defend the Pan- ama Canal, but was moved, on paper, during World War II back to the United States to prepare for long-range bombing missions in the Pa- cific Theater. Many who had served with the old group in the Canal Zone stayed behind. Meanwhile, a new band of brothers flew under the pirate Courtesy Photo with skull and crossbones – A B-29 Superfortress bomber was the Milan “Emil” Dananay (back row, second from right) and David Farquhar, the distinctive emblem of the heavyweight of WWII, capable of flying Jr. (front row, left) with the other crewmembers of the 6th Bombardment 6th that dated back to its first around the world non-stop. Group B-29 “Blind Date/Lady’s Delight,” 1945. Their bomber was shot assignment on the Caribbean down during the night raids on Tokyo on May 23, 1945. side of Panama. From April to November of 1944, approximately 1,400 men formed the ground crews and flight crews that would make up this new ver- had to make an emergency landing and have the propeller changed, but we the island for some time, flying missions day after day, and we thought that sion of the Group. Initially in Texas, but later and primarily in Nebraska, weren’t captured.” was a little bit arrogant for this new crew to show up and say those things.’ they learned to fly huge, silver-gleaming planes that would later roar across On May 23, 1945, Dananay and his crewmates weren’t so lucky. During One day, he wandered over towards the restricted area to take a look at the Pacific to help end World War II. one of the most massive bombing raids of the war, ‘Blind Date/Lady’s De- this new crew’s plane, when he was stopped by a guard who took his name “These were the days of fanciful speculations and exaggerated rumors. light’ was shot down near Tokyo. They were eventually captured and taken and dog tags. Several days, later Gresko’s aircraft commander pulled him Some typical stories were: a B-29 could fly non-stop around the world; it to the main prison of the Kempei Tai (the notorious Japanese secret police aside and sternly warned him about staying away from the plane of Col. carried armament equal to a light cruiser (a Navy ship); it carried a bomb often equated to Hitler’s Gestapo) in Tokyo, adjacent to the Imperial Palace Paul Tibbets, Jr., named the “Enola Gay.’ On Aug. 6, 1945, that same plane load of a B-17 squadron,” according to the historical record, the Pirate’s Log, grounds. – painted with the ‘Circle R’ emblem of the 6th Bombardment Group to con- of the Sixth Bombardment Group Association, a modern-day organization “I was scared,” said Dananay. “I tried to hide the parachute, and then fuse any Japanese reconnaissance – dropped the first atomic bomb. of 6th veterans. went into a cave. Eventually I got hungry and had to come out. A little boy “It wasn’t until after we heard about the bombing of Hiroshima that I “You have to remember that none of us had ever seen a B-29 before,” said spotted me in the fields as I was walking past a tomato patch. He ran back understood what I had walked in on,” said Gresko. Don Gleacher, a former member of the 6th Bombardment Group who had to the village and I ran into the woods nearby. Soon afterwards the soldiers As part of this year’s reunion, the City of San Diego sponsored a cer- served as a tail gunner on the Superfortress nicknamed ‘Reamatroid’. “At started searching. I was caught in the woods.” emony on Sept. 9 at the Fort Rosecrans National Cemetery. Guest speaker the time, they only had these new planes over in the China-Burma-India More recently, some of those men who served during World War II came Air Force Col. (Retired) Clark Kholos recounted the many successes of these Theater. We had only heard stories about the Superfortress. Most of us had together for a reunion in San Diego sponsored by the Sixth Bombardment men as they flew some of the most dangerous missions of the war. “They trained to be a B-17 crewmember, but all of a sudden after we came out of Group Association. The approximately 110 people who attended this year’s earned over 2,250 combat awards individually in addition to the four cam- training we had to know how to handle this new one.” event included 25 veterans with their family members and friends. They paign stars to their Asiatic-Pacific Theater ribbon and two Distinguished Once fact had been separated from fiction during training at Grand Is- gathered to share their past with family, hook up with old buddies, catch Unit Citations.” As part of the ceremony, the City of San Diego issued a land Army Airfield, Neb., in the summer of 1944, these new members of the up with each other’s lives, and add a few embellishments to old war stories proclamation marking Sept. 9, 2011 as “The Sixth Bomb Group Day.” 6th Bomb Group learned they were headed to the Pacific. There, they would from long ago. This year’s event marked the 23rd time that the Sixth Bombardment be stationed on Tinian, a small island in the northern section of the Mari- “It’s just amazing how they light up when they get around each other Group Association veterans have gathered together over the past 27 years. ana Islands chain. Their missions involved flying hundreds of miles across during these reunions,” said Jeanne Holmes, a co-organizer of the reunion. Their first reunion in 1984 drew only 40 members, although attendance at the Pacific, avoiding enemy fighter planes and anti-aircraft fire, bombing “Sometimes they’ll start talking about stories that even their own families subsequent events jumped to as high as 330. However, for those who came military targets on the Japanese mainland or dropping mines in the nearby have never heard before.” this year, and for those who will attend next year’s reunion in Charleston, waterways, and then hopefully returning back to Tinian before they ran out One such story came courtesy of George Gresko, who experienced his S.C., and wherever else after that, these reunions mean more than just a of fuel. Some of them didn’t make it. own version of the old adage about a deceased feline being resurrected by number count. “One time we were attacked by Japanese Zero fighters, and one of our the fulfillment of new-found knowledge. While serving on Tinian, he had “For us, this is about the things we’ve done, the places we’ve been, and propellers was hit,” said Milan “Emil” Dananay, who served as a tail gun- heard of a brand new B-29 crew that was talking about how they were go- the airplanes we’ve flown,” said William Webster, who had served as an ner on the B-29 nicknamed ‘Blind Date/Lady’s Delight.’ “We had to shut ing to win the war. aerial photographer for the Group. “This is a chance to see the other Group off the engine because it was vibrating so badly that it shook the plane. We “This didn’t set to well with me,” said Gresko. “Most of us had been on members and share a very special bond. This is camaraderie. by William Polson 6th Air Mobility Wing historian ong before the unit we know today as the 6th Operations Group came to Florida, it had a very different mission in a very different location. LThe 6th Bombardment Group had been assigned to defend the Pan- ama Canal, but was moved, on paper, during World War II back to the United States to prepare for long-range bombing missions in the Pa- cific Theater. Many who had served with the old group in the Canal Zone stayed behind. Meanwhile, a new band of brothers flew under the pirate Courtesy Photo Photo by William Polson with skull and crossbones – The crew of the 6th Bombardment Group’s “Connecticut Yankee II” pose World War II Veterans of the 6th Bombardment Group Association the distinctive emblem of the in front of their B-29 before one of the many missions flown from North pause for a photo after a memorial service at the Fort Rosecrans Na- 6th that dated back to its first Field, Tinian, in the final years of World War II. The 6th Bombardment tional Cemetery in San Diego Sept. 9. The service honored the group’s assignment on the Caribbean Group flew 75 missions from the small island. World War II veterans, many of whom participated in night bombing raids side of Panama. From April to November of 1944, approximately 1,400 men on Tokyo and other major cities in Japan that helped end the war. formed the ground crews and flight crews that would make up this new ver- had to make an emergency landing and have the propeller changed, but we the island for some time, flying missions day after day, and we thought that sion of the Group. Initially in Texas, but later and primarily in Nebraska, weren’t captured.” was a little bit arrogant for this new crew to show up and say those things.’ they learned to fly huge, silver-gleaming planes that would later roar across On May 23, 1945, Dananay and his crewmates weren’t so lucky. During One day, he wandered over towards the restricted area to take a look at the Pacific to help end World War II. one of the most massive bombing raids of the war, ‘Blind Date/Lady’s De- this new crew’s plane, when he was stopped by a guard who took his name “These were the days of fanciful speculations and exaggerated rumors. light’ was shot down near Tokyo. They were eventually captured and taken and dog tags. Several days, later Gresko’s aircraft commander pulled him Some typical stories were: a B-29 could fly non-stop around the world; it to the main prison of the Kempei Tai (the notorious Japanese secret police aside and sternly warned him about staying away from the plane of Col. carried armament equal to a light cruiser (a Navy ship); it carried a bomb often equated to Hitler’s Gestapo) in Tokyo, adjacent to the Imperial Palace Paul Tibbets, Jr., named the “Enola Gay.’ On Aug. 6, 1945, that same plane load of a B-17 squadron,” according to the historical record, the Pirate’s Log, grounds. – painted with the ‘Circle R’ emblem of the 6th Bombardment Group to con- of the Sixth Bombardment Group Association, a modern-day organization “I was scared,” said Dananay. “I tried to hide the parachute, and then fuse any Japanese reconnaissance – dropped the first atomic bomb. of 6th veterans. went into a cave. Eventually I got hungry and had to come out. A little boy “It wasn’t until after we heard about the bombing of Hiroshima that I “You have to remember that none of us had ever seen a B-29 before,” said spotted me in the fields as I was walking past a tomato patch. He ran back understood what I had walked in on,” said Gresko. Don Gleacher, a former member of the 6th Bombardment Group who had to the village and I ran into the woods nearby. Soon afterwards the soldiers As part of this year’s reunion, the City of San Diego sponsored a cer- served as a tail gunner on the Superfortress nicknamed ‘Reamatroid’. “At started searching. I was caught in the woods.” emony on Sept. 9 at the Fort Rosecrans National Cemetery. Guest speaker the time, they only had these new planes over in the China-Burma-India More recently, some of those men who served during World War II came Air Force Col. (Retired) Clark Kholos recounted the many successes of these Theater. We had only heard stories about the Superfortress. Most of us had together for a reunion in San Diego sponsored by the Sixth Bombardment men as they flew some of the most dangerous missions of the war. “They trained to be a B-17 crewmember, but all of a sudden after we came out of Group Association. The approximately 110 people who attended this year’s earned over 2,250 combat awards individually in addition to the four cam- training we had to know how to handle this new one.” event included 25 veterans with their family members and friends. They paign stars to their Asiatic-Pacific Theater ribbon and two Distinguished Once fact had been separated from fiction during training at Grand Is- gathered to share their past with family, hook up with old buddies, catch Unit Citations.” As part of the ceremony, the City of San Diego issued a land Army Airfield, Neb., in the summer of 1944, these new members of the up with each other’s lives, and add a few embellishments to old war stories proclamation marking Sept. 9, 2011 as “The Sixth Bomb Group Day.” 6th Bomb Group learned they were headed to the Pacific. There, they would from long ago. This year’s event marked the 23rd time that the Sixth Bombardment be stationed on Tinian, a small island in the northern section of the Mari- “It’s just amazing how they light up when they get around each other Group Association veterans have gathered together over the past 27 years. ana Islands chain. Their missions involved flying hundreds of miles across during these reunions,” said Jeanne Holmes, a co-organizer of the reunion. Their first reunion in 1984 drew only 40 members, although attendance at the Pacific, avoiding enemy fighter planes and anti-aircraft fire, bombing “Sometimes they’ll start talking about stories that even their own families subsequent events jumped to as high as 330. However, for those who came military targets on the Japanese mainland or dropping mines in the nearby have never heard before.” this year, and for those who will attend next year’s reunion in Charleston, Photo by William Polson waterways, and then hopefully returning back to Tinian before they ran out One such story came courtesy of George Gresko, who experienced his S.C., and wherever else after that, these reunions mean more than just a Don Gleacher, a crewmember of the 6th Bombardment Group during of fuel. Some of them didn’t make it. own version of the old adage about a deceased feline being resurrected by number count. World War II, reflects for a moment at the Fort Rosecrans National Cem- “One time we were attacked by Japanese Zero fighters, and one of our the fulfillment of new-found knowledge. While serving on Tinian, he had “For us, this is about the things we’ve done, the places we’ve been, and etery in San Diego Sept 9. Gleacher, who was the tail gunner of the B-29 propellers was hit,” said Milan “Emil” Dananay, who served as a tail gun- heard of a brand new B-29 crew that was talking about how they were go- the airplanes we’ve flown,” said William Webster, who had served as an “Reamatroid,” joined other 6th Bombardment Group veterans for a me- ner on the B-29 nicknamed ‘Blind Date/Lady’s Delight.’ “We had to shut ing to win the war. aerial photographer for the Group. “This is a chance to see the other Group morial service in their honor. off the engine because it was vibrating so badly that it shook the plane. We “This didn’t set to well with me,” said Gresko. “Most of us had been on members and share a very special bond. This is camaraderie. BRIEFS 6 MDG Closed for Columbus Day The 6th Medical Group will be closed Columbus Day, Monday, Oct. 10.

CENTCOM Picnic All CENTCOM employees and family members are invited to attend the USCENTCOM 2011 Org & Family Day Oct. 21 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. There will be service team-based competitions, numerous activities for children, food and beverages and much more. 7:30 a.m. - Six-Man relay 8 a.m. - 5-K Fun Run 10 a.m. - Six-Man Volley Ball 11 a.m. – Beach Six-Man Relay Noon - Hot Dog Eating Contest 1:30 p.m. - Eight-Man Tug of War To inquire about the service based competitions, contact your service representative: Air Force - Master Sgt. Vance, 827-6911; Army - Sgt. Major Parker, 529-6007; Marine Corp - Gunnery Sgt. Dothard, 827-6914; Navy - Petty Officer 1st Class Baptiste, 827-5877.

Chapel seeks Protestant Contemporary Worship Leader The MacDill AFB Chapel is accepting bids for a part time Chapel Tithes & Offering Fund Protestant Contemporary Worship Leader. A statement of work can be picked up at the Base Chapel, Building 355, weekdays from 7:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. Resumes and sealed bids will be accepted through, Oct. 3. Interviews/auditions will be conducted Oct. 3 and 4 from 1 to 4 p.m. at the Chapel. The bids will be opened at noon Oct. 5 in the Chapel conference room. Anyone with interest may attend. The Protestant Contemporary Worship Leader is expected to start work Oct 6. Applicants must be able to secure permission to enter a military installation (no felony convictions/ arrests, drug free, etc.). Contact Tech. Sgt. DeVoile at 828-3621.

Physical therapy honored in October Special to the Thunderbolt

To commemorate National Physical Therapy Month, the Physical Ther- apy clinic from the 6th Medical Group is hosting an Open House Oct. 28 from 1 to 3 p.m. The Open House will be held in the Physical Therapy clinic, and will include various physical therapy related activities and games, door prizes, and light refreshment. National Physical Therapy Month is held every October to raise awareness of and recognize the important roles physical therapists and assis- tants play in helping people maintain, improve, and restore the mobility necessary to stay fit, active, and independent while enjoying the things they like to do as they age. This year’s celebration is focused on sports injury prevention. Whether someone is playing Little League or in the Masters, participating in sports helps promote physically active lifestyles. Yet, despite the documented health benefits of physical activity, the potential for sports-related injuries exists. Physical therapists significantly improve mobility to perform daily activities. They provide an alternative to painful and expensive surgery, in many cases, and they manage or eliminate pain without medication and its side effects.

Texan Sacking Machine. Texans win. 1st and 10 … The Pigskin Picker On Saturday, we’ll be seeing some great col- by Mack Dill lege games, and we’ll kick things off with the Red The Pigskin Picker River Rivalry at the Cotton Bowl, where Oklaho- ma faces Texas in this annual grudge match. Al- Hello football fans! Recapping last week’s though Texas averages more yards rushing per game of the week, Air Force at Navy, I missed game than OU, it’s because they have to. They the pick. Air Force jumped ahead and Navy haven’t figured out their quarterback “situation” roared back in the 4th quarter to send the game yet and are working a quarterback rotation be- into OT. Navy scored first but couldn’t convert tween a freshman and a sophomore. At the same the extra point after a 15 yard unsportsman- time, OU is respectable with moving the ball on like penalty on QB Kriss Proctor. Air Force then the ground and it has QB Landry Jones, who scored easily and made the PAT to win. After the puts up over 377 passing yards per game. As far game Proctor said he wasn’t taunting the Air as history goes, Texas leads the series 59 to 41. Force, but just telling one of the players to move. As far as this year goes, look for the Texas un- My theory: the ref misunderstood Proctor saying, derclassmen to be out-classed by the OU upper- “make a hole” with something altogether differ- classman. Oklahoma wins. ent (sound it out slowly and you’ll get the idea). Missouri at Kansas State – Kansas State is All in all though, what a great game. As for my back in the polls and are undefeated so far this picks – I ended up with 8 out of 11 correct. season. They’ve done some amazing things this Let’s see how the match-ups look this week. year, including a tremendous goal line stance For starters I’m picking the game of the week against Miami and an upset last week over Bay- to be Sunday’s NFL battle of the Oakland Raid- lor. Missouri is 2-2 and flying low under the ra- ers at the Houston Texans. Oakland just dar, but they are able to put an average of 36 came off of a disappointing loss to the Patriots, points per game by working both the pass and but showed some real-deal flashes of brilliance the rush. Look for an extremely physical game. that proves they are a team to be taken seriously. I think it will come down to the wire, but the They are leading the NFL in rushing, but their Wildcats will pull out the win. defense is allowing too many yards. Houston, on FSU at Wake Forest - I couldn’t let the sea- the other hand is coming off of an impressive win son go by without mentioning the Demon Dea- over Pittsburgh. While it’s not looking like WR cons of Wake Forest! They are on a three-game Andre Johnson will be able to play against the win streak, the first time since 2007. Don’t be Raiders, the Texans showed that they can make fooled by Wake Forest though. On paper, they up for it in other areas, such QB sacks. Look for See PIGSKIN, Page 18 the Raiders to hand the ball off and avoid that MACDILL COMMUNITY EVENTS Friday Boomers Bar & Grill Friday Bash! 3-7 p.m. Bar CChhaappeell EEvveennttss ffoorr OOccttoobbeerr snacks & drink specials! $100 club card drawing, Bar Bingo, DJ/ Trivia entertainment! Protestant Services: Catholic Services: Boomers Bar & Grill Sunday: 9:00 a.m. Praise Service Mon-Thurs: 12:10 p.m. Daily Mass Boss & Buddy at 3:30 p.m. 12:00 p.m. Gospel Service Saturday: 4:30 p.m. Confessions, Come out & compete in game 5:30 p.m. Mass show style games for prizes! En- Sunday: 10:30 a.m. Mass joy “Group Feud” as teams from around the base compete for priz- Catholic Religious es and bragging rights in a game modeled after the popular Fam- Education 2011-2012 ily Feud TV game show. Sign up at the door for “Boss and Buddy Sundays, Starting 11 September from 9:00 Jeopardy” or relax and enjoy the AM to 10:15 AM in Annex 2. Cost is $30 for show with free food, music, and Wednesdays, Starting 7 September Family Dinner @ 5:00 p.m. each child or $45 for 2 or more. Call Mrs. more! Remember it’s all about AWANA Program 5:45 -7:15 p.m. Baggerly @ 828-8565 to register esprit de corps so don’t forget to Registration: $10 / Vest & Books: $10 (per child) bring your Boss or Buddy! Call Mrs. Lavelle @ 828-8564 CBS4W Sunday (Chapel Bible Study 4 Women) MacDill Lanes Base Chapel, Annex 1 Elite Bowling Tour Comes To On Tuesday, 11 October @ 9:30 a.m. 11-week study using Grace for Every Trial. MacDill! 5 Game Scratch Sweeper Chapel Annex 2 - at 10 a.m. & 2 p.m. Cost 40. Join us for bible study and fellowship. e-mail [email protected]

MacDill Lanes For more information regarding services & programs, please call the base chapel @ (813) 828-3621 NOW OPEN ON SUNDAYS or visit our website @ http://www.macdill.af.mil/macdillchapel FROM 1-8 p.m.!

Monday & Wednesday Bay Palms Golf Complex After 1 p.m. Golf for only $15 CHAPEL SCHEDULE (E1-E4 $11.25) Protestant services Catholic services Sunday - 9 a.m. – Praise Worship Service Saturday - 4:30 p.m. - Confession Tuesday & Thursday Noon – Gospel Service 5:30 p.m. - Mass Bay Palms Golf Complex Islamic services Sunday - 10:30 a.m. - Mass FREE Active Duty Clinic from Friday - 1:30 p.m. - Prayer Service Monday to Thursday: 12:10 p.m. - Mass 12-1 p.m. For all other faith inquiries or to view upcoming event information, call the Chapel at Wednesday 828-3621 or visit the website at www.macdill.af.mil/macdillchapel Base Library Teen/Tween Anime & Magna AT THE MOVIES $4 for adults / $2 for children 828-2780 Club from 6-7 p.m. Health & Sports Day! Friday - 7 p.m. Saturday - 4 p.m. Saturday - 7 p.m.

For more information, visit our The Smurfs (PG) The Smurfs (PG) Fright Night (R) Web site at www.macdillfss.com Here’s what’s cooking in the NFL on Sunday. Green Bay at Atlanta – Atlanta barely held PIGSKIN New Orleans at Carolina – Let’s see who on in Seattle last week. Seattle! This team that From Page 16 can pass the ball more, Cam Newton or Drew showed so much promise at the beginning of the match up evenly with FSU and are looking to Brees? Carolina makes games fun to watch, but season can’t seem to figure out how to use all of give the Noles a run for their money. However, the Saints are too much for the Panthers. Saints the talent they have. Green Bay is a machine FSU’s QB EJ Manuel is supposed to be back this win on the road. right now, and Aaron Rodgers can pretty much weekend, so throw the stats away. FSU wins. Philadelphia at Buffalo – Both teams com- do whatever he wants with the ball – includ- Texas A&M at Texas Tech - I know I keep ing off of tough losses. The smart money is on ing running it. Who knew? Atlanta has a shot putting the Aggies in my line up each week, but the Philly dream team to pull off the victory, but though. They are playing at home and if they they never disappoint on giving a good show. I’m not going with the odds-on favorite. To me, can put some pressure on the Packer’s outside The fact that they keep blowing big leads just the Eagles are too much like the Boston Red Sox receivers, they may be able to stop the offensive adds to the excitement. This week, they are go- – heavy on payroll, short on chemistry. Buffalo, nightmare that is Green Bay’s passing game. ing to Texas Tech to take on Tommy Tuberville on the other hand, is a team that’s not supposed I’m looking for Green Bay to win in Atlanta. and his undefeated Red Raiders. How did Texas to be where they are, so they’re having fun (okay, Chicago at Detroit - Monday Night Foot- Tech get to be undefeated? Well, in the last three they didn’t have a lot of fun last week in Cincin- ball! Detroit is undefeated and just came off of a games they’ve come back from huge deficits. nati), and creating victories. I’m going with my great come-from-behind win on the road at Dal- Last week, they came back from 20 points down heart on this one and looking for a Bills win. las. Chicago allows more yards passing and more to beat Kansas. Think the Aggies are having Jets at Patriots - Oh my goodness. is Rex yards rushing than the Lions, and they don’t nightmares about that? Seriously, the players Ryan about to blow a gasket, or what? He’s have the offense that Detroit has. So if you are a at A&M will need a support group if they allow now saying that the Jets are going back to the betting person – go with Detroit. I’m not a bet- another come-from-behind win. I haven’t picked “Ground & Pound” style of offense they are ting person. I love the impact that Special Teams the Aggies to win yet, but this week I’m feel- known for. The bad news for Mark Sanchez is can have on a game – especially under the Mon- ing good about them. Texas Tech is undefeated, that it’s a sign that Ryan has lost confidence in day Night Lights. Watch Chicago’s Devin Hester. but they haven’t been challenged by any tough him. The good news for Sanchez is that he prob- He is a game-changer, and can take the air out teams. A&M takes an early lead and keeps it. ably won’t be on his butt quite as much. While I of any defense. As a team, Chicago is pretty good Ohio State at Nebraska - Think the Corn- believe that the Jets are a good team and give at finding ways to win. So for the last pick of huskers need to beat up on another team in the the Pats a scare. I don’t see them being able to the week, I’m going out on a very thin limb and conference? Buckeyes, it’s going to be a very long cover all of the weapons Tom Brady uses on the picking the Bears to upset the undefeated Lions day for you. Big Nebraska victory at home. field. Patriots take the win. in Detroit.