Story, B-1 Story, B-4 .... .

Sports: Maintenance Airmen vie for softball win softball for vie Airmen Maintenance Sports: ECRWSS Century 21st B-4 ......

Birth announcements Birth PRSRT-STD

the into leading of challenges

B-3 ...... Community Happenings community calendar community Happenings Community U.S. Postage

Troops prepare scouts for the the for scouts prepare Troops B-2 ...... hours magic five The Faith: of Matters

The 190th and 540th Boy Scout Scout Boy 540th and 190th The A-2 . .

Commentary: Which nametape do you represent? you do nametape Which Commentary: PAID

Anchorage

Inside BSA mentors future leaders future mentors BSA A-2 Reservist reacts in emergency: emergency: in reacts Reservist Publishing

POSTAL CUSTOMER

KNIGHT KNIGHT MARKSMEN

A-3 See A-3 See salesman describing the whiz-bang features features whiz-bang the describing salesman cineplex, Brock said he is reliant on his his on reliant is he said Brock cineplex, l l l

tion of the rifle, sounding like a 1950s-era 1950s-era a like sounding rifle, the of tion Far from the lone wolf portrayed at the the at portrayed wolf lone the from Far

- descrip a off rattled He SWS. M24 the on of anything better to do on retirement than than retirement on do to better anything of the of size assumed the upon based distance sharpshooter. the of needs the to according

ensures 673d SFS Airmen retain proficiency proficiency retain Airmen SFS 673d ensures honored,” Knight said. “I couldn’t think think couldn’t “I said. Knight honored,” estimate to pattern reticle the used Link pull, trigger of pounds 5 and 3.5 between

bat Arms instructor, said the routine training training routine the said instructor, Arms bat Rucker, for giving me this opportunity. I’m I’m opportunity. this me giving for Rucker, scope, spotting his through Peering adjustments for allows trigger match-grade

- Com Reloza, Leonard Officer Civilian ally, you and Command Sgt. Maj. [Mitchell] [Mitchell] Maj. Sgt. Command and you ally, target. on steel get to order in commands the website, manufacturer’s the to cording

with the 673d Security Forces Squadron. Squadron. Forces Security 673d the with - person you thank to like would I “Sir, staccato short in communicating training, - Ac action. the with fit consistent and tight a

Base Elmendorf-Richardson’s Statler Range Range Statler Elmendorf-Richardson’s Base major. during watch German a of cogs necting ensure block bedding and stock composite

Designated Marksman qualification at Joint Joint at qualification Marksman Designated inducted as the honorary command sergeant sergeant command honorary the as inducted - intercon like worked Link and Brock The rifle. bolt-action a of accuracy the ing

between 100 and 500 meters for Advanced Advanced for meters 500 and 100 between Knight expressed his gratefulness to be be to gratefulness his expressed Knight needed.” if shot - retain while ammunition through cycle

days. He was lining up man-shaped targets targets man-shaped up lining was He days. bestowing of the honor. honor. the of bestowing second a take and adjust You adjustment]. quickly to shooter the allowing rifle, the of

ited ranges and hushed zings of his rimfire rimfire his of zings hushed and ranges ited command group of Blue Geronimo for the the for Geronimo Blue of group command sight [of clicks by off are you far how you tell heart the is action 700 Remington The

- lim the beyond plinking, beyond progressed said to the attendees as he thanked the the thanked he as attendees the to said will they low, or high you’re If magnifying. scope.” 10x

Fast forward to July 11, and Brock has has Brock and 11, July to forward Fast “I’ll try not to get teary eyed,” Knight Knight eyed,” teary get to not try “I’ll anything behind fatigue have you because Leupold a with topped trigger 40X ington

up a few targets, and plink away. plink and targets, few a up tion ceremony. tion sight, the behind you’re while you for las - Rem a and block bedding aluminum an with

could wander into national forest land, line line land, forest national into wander could - induc major sergeant command honorary - formu the of all do will They distances. out stock composite fiberglass and Kevlar sion

homes, the 673d SFS flight sergeant said he he said sergeant flight SFS 673d the homes, sergeant major of the battalion during an an during battalion the of major sergeant calling for responsible are “They explained. - Preci H-S an using action 700 Remington

Living in a small settlement of five five of settlement small a in Living charged Knight as the honorary command command honorary the as Knight charged Brock shooter,” best the is spotter “The bolt-action a “It’s said. native Anchorage the

Brock was hooked. was Brock Tobin Magsig, 1-501st Infantry commander, commander, Infantry 1-501st Magsig, Tobin training. for Force,” Air States United the for rifle sniper

the budding marksman as a Christmas gift. Christmas a as marksman budding the Base Elmendorf-Richardson, Army Lt. Col. Col. Lt. Army Elmendorf-Richardson, Base places switch two the before mark his hit standard-issue current the is M24 “The

ington Model 522 Viper .22-caliber rifle for for rifle .22-caliber Viper 522 Model ington “Blue Geronimo” headquarters on Joint Joint on headquarters Geronimo” “Blue to Link, Ryan Sgt. Staff Force Air spotter, cleaner. vacuum latest the of

- Rem a got – teenager the with sympathized talion (Airborne), 501st Infantry Regiment Regiment Infantry 501st (Airborne), talion

on Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson July 11. 11. July Elmendorf-Richardson Base Joint on on a BB gun. At 17, his grandfather – who who – grandfather his 17, At gun. BB a on - Bat 1st outside ceremony 14 July a In

the 673d Security Forces Squadron, as they train with the M24 Sniper Weapon System System Weapon Sniper M24 the with train they as Squadron, Forces Security 673d the 16 years old, he managed to get his hands hands his get to managed he old, years 16 sergeant major. sergeant

to assist Senior Airman Austin Cavenaugh, a native of Beulaville, N.C., assigned to to assigned N.C., Beulaville, of native a Cavenaugh, Austin Airman Senior assist to

and wouldn’t allow him to have one. At At one. have to him allow wouldn’t and operations sergeant major and command command and major sergeant operations

Senior Airman Aric Shott, left, a native of West Palm Beach, Fla., uses a spotting scope scope spotting a uses Fla., Beach, Palm West of native a left, Shott, Aric Airman Senior

Brock said his parents didn’t like guns guns like didn’t parents his said Brock geant, observer controller, first sergeant, sergeant, first controller, observer geant,

System rifle. System - ser platoon sergeant, operations leader,

behind the scope of an M24 Sniper Weapon Weapon Sniper M24 an of scope the behind long-range surveillance detachment team team detachment surveillance long-range

Tahoe, Calif., native shoots bullseyes from from bullseyes shoots native Calif., Tahoe, Bradley Fighting Vehicle commander, commander, Vehicle Fighting Bradley

instead of shooting free throws, the Lake Lake the throws, free shooting of instead S tion, to include team leader, squad leader, leader, squad leader, team include to tion,

a power forward in the NBA. But But NBA. the in forward power a - posi leadership officer noncommissioned

looks well-suited for a career as as career a for well-suited looks a variety of units and serve in nearly every every nearly in serve and units of variety a

tall, Tech. Sgt. Jerimiah Brock Brock Jerimiah Sgt. Tech. tall, Over the years, Knight would serve in in serve would Knight years, the Over

INCHES 5 FEET 6 TANDING rifleman.

enlisting in the Army in 1987 as an infantry infantry an as 1987 in Army the in enlisting

JBER Public Affairs Public JBER served four years in the Marine Corps before before Corps Marine the in years four served

By David Bedard David By retired Command Sgt. Maj. Bernie Knight Knight Bernie Maj. Sgt. Command retired

Born and raised in Kansas City, Kan., Kan., City, Kansas in raised and Born

JBER range JBER

4/25th IBCT Public Affairs Public IBCT 4/25th

By Sgt. Eric-James Estrada Eric-James Sgt. By

hone skills at at skills hone

sergeant major sergeant

marksmen marksmen

command command

Security Forces Forces Security

inducts honorary honorary inducts

in service with the U.S. military since 1988. (U.S. Air Force photos/Justin Connaher) photos/Justin Force Air (U.S. 1988. since military U.S. the with service in

Blue Geronimo Geronimo Blue

Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson, July 11. The M24 is a military version of the Remington Model 700 7.62mm rifle, and has been been has and rifle, 7.62mm 700 Model Remington the of version military a is M24 The 11. July Elmendorf-Richardson, Base Joint

Air Force Staff Sgt. Ryan Link, assigned to the 673d Security Forces Squadron, trains with the M24 Sniper Weapon System on on System Weapon Sniper M24 the with trains Squadron, Forces Security 673d the to assigned Link, Ryan Sgt. Staff Force Air

s s AFSC A-3 See l l

timelines associated with these updates, updates, these with associated timelines

these changes; however, given the short short the given however, changes; these

eligibility rosters for their units reflecting reflecting units their for rosters eligibility

Commanders will be provided updated updated provided be will Commanders

reduces risk at this point.” this at risk reduces

Adjusting our force management programs programs management force our Adjusting

retain more Airmen in some career fields. fields. career some in Airmen more retain

force structure actions is also driving us to to us driving also is actions structure force

Budgetary uncertainty regarding proposed proposed regarding uncertainty Budgetary

schedule and improves their quality of life. life. of quality their improves and schedule

these critical Airmen a more stable work work stable more a Airmen critical these

of this mission,” James said. “It also offers offers also “It said. James mission,” this of

positions underscores the vital importance importance vital the underscores positions

“Establishing full manning in our nuclear nuclear our in manning full “Establishing

force structure changes. structure force

budgetary uncertainty regarding proposed proposed regarding uncertainty budgetary

force specialty codes and to account for for account to and codes specialty force

to bolster manning for nuclear-related air air nuclear-related for manning bolster to

Air Force Deborah Lee James’s direction direction James’s Lee Deborah Force Air

the upcoming boards at Secretary of the the of Secretary at boards upcoming the

mately 4,000 Airmen from eligibility for for eligibility from Airmen 4,000 mately

- approxi eliminated leaders Force Air

Force officials said June 13. June said officials Force

retention boards this summer and fall, Air Air fall, and summer this boards retention

originally expected will meet involuntary involuntary meet will expected originally WASHINGTON — Fewer Airmen than than Airmen Fewer — WASHINGTON

SECAF Public Affairs staff report staff Affairs Public SECAF MARKSMEN

boards for retention retention for

eligibility eligibility DEAD-ON

removed from from removed

Some AFSCs AFSCs Some

www.jber.af.mil Volume 5, No. 28 No. 5, Volume July 18, 2014 18, July

W A ARRIOR RCTIC

JOINT BASE ELMENDORF-RICHARDSON’S SOURCE FOR NEWS FOR SOURCE ELMENDORF-RICHARDSON’S BASE JOINT AIRMAN

Story, A-3 Story,

12 Oustanding Airmen of the Year. the of Airmen Oustanding 12

of on as recognized is Australia, STANDOUT

Melbourne, of native Airman,

Squadron Contracting 673d A-2 News July 18, 2014 Which nametape do you represent?

By Air Force Master Sgt. Daniel Morphew them to the Air Force standard. I must put the 766th Specialized Contracting Squadron Air Force’s expectations ahead of my own or I will never reach service before self. This Do you remember the day you enlisted or must be understood, or I will never achieve received a commission into the United States the last core value. Air Force? Did any of us who stood there Excellence in all we do. This is so much with our right hand held high really know more than just giving my best effort. I do what that commitment required? believe that I must give my best effort, but I voluntarily swore to uphold the Consti- that does not define the word “excellent.” tution and a set of rules and regulations no That only means that I gave 100 percent of matter what. I am governed by these rules my effort towards something and there was and regulations from Basic Military Training an end result. until separation from the Air Force. Merriam-Webster defines excellence as Did anyone do the research and see what “extremely high quality.” This leads me to Air Force instructions would govern the next believe there is an extremely low quality period of their lives? I didn’t do the research and probably a mediocre quality also. So before I enlisted. I thought I knew enough how do I measure my quality? Well that is to get by and continued that train wreck where standards, or definitive expectations, of a mindset for many years to follow. It’s come into the picture. important for me to try and explain what I The Air Force defines standards in AFI mean. 1-1, Air Force Standards, so I can measure I thought my values were aligned with my quality. The Air Force expects me the Air Force Core Values: integrity first, (U.S. Air Force photo/Senior Airman Luis Loza Gutierrez) to achieve this standard. If I surpass this service before self, and excellence in all standard, then I have attained “extremely we do. I am sure that most of us have, or expected. As a result of this feeling, I be- ages. I would never wonder where I stood as high quality.” If I fail to meet this Air Force had, our own interpretation of what each of gan to unify my actions to the Air Force’s an Airman. Best of all, my words and actions standard then I have mediocre or extremely these mean. expectations. would scream Airman to those who see me low quality. Integrity first: simply put, this means I do These two books dictate what my actions and interact with me, allowing me to be a This is why it is so important that I mea- what is right even when nobody is watching. as an Airman will look like. “The Little better follower and leader. This concept is sure my quality, my goals, and my processes Service before self: give everything I have Blue Book” defines integrity as a character important to understand before I dive into against the Air Force’s standards and not my to my job, even if it kills me. Excellence in trait – a trait of someone’s willingness to do the next core value. own. I convolute the Air Force’s standards all we do: give my best effort to whatever what is right even when no one is looking. Service before self. This is not simply when I justify my actions based on what I I am doing. This alone does not define integrity though just doing everything I am told even if it “think” the standard should be. If I measure I had no idea how ignorant my simple because how do you know what is right? kills me. Let’s do some substitution on this my quality against my standards or expecta- view was and how it affected those around The book goes on to say there are several phrase, like algebra. Service before self be- tions, then I will never reach the Air Force’s me. Selective ignorance ruled my decisions other moral traits that make up integrity: comes “Airman before me,” which means I standard. Excellence should only be graded and distorted my perspective on how I de- courage, honesty, responsibility, account- am an Airman before I am selfish. by what the Air Force requires and not what fined the Air Force Core Values for many ability, justice, openness, self-respect and I am saying that, before I do something, I “feel” at that time. This process should be years. humility. I should ask if it affects the Air Force or me. done for all Airmen using Air Force regula- I learned through personal research how Honesty means “the bottom line is we It means I need to stop being selfish and tions and instructions to determine “excel- the Air Force wants me to define these values don’t lie, and we can’t justify any devia- remember I am serving my country and not lence.” If not, then it is no longer excellence though. Let me start with the first value and tion.” Responsibility means that a person of my country serving me. It means my actions in all we do but excellence in “what we dig a little deeper. integrity acknowledges his or her duties and reflect the Air Force’s idea of a professional. choose to do.” Integrity First. This is a far cry from acts accordingly. My idea of a professional should have Whether the journey is beginning or end- only doing what is right when nobody is I found a list of duties in “The Little faded away when I volunteered to serve the ing, ensure you reflect the correct nametape: watching. John Maxwell explained integrity Brown Book” that are mandatory – things Air Force by reciting the oath of enlistment. U.S. Air Force. Don’t be overpowered by the in better detail in one of his books, Develop- like performing in a timely and efficient It means that I no longer conduct myself self- selfish desire to follow the nametape on your ing the Leader Within You. He stated, “The manner, detecting and correcting conduct ishly based on my views, but rather by the right shirt pocket. dictionary defines integrity as ‘the state and behavior that is unsafe, meeting and Air Force’s views. Now this transformation Maintain your image as an Airman above of being complete, unified.’ When I have striving to exceed the standards of those may not happen overnight. It should become all other desires. If you ever feel in doubt integrity, my words and my deeds match below me, being a good follower by support- more evident, though, the longer I remain in about your reflection, then educate yourself up. I am who I am, no matter where I am or ing leadership, and even joining professional the Air Force. If not, do I really understand on the requirements and check your image. who I am with.” organizations and participating through the Air Force Core Values? Don’t wait for someone to point out your Following Maxwell’s train of thought, I volunteerism. My actions should become a mirror errors, because by then you have led others am supposed to unify my words and actions Notice how, that said, I have to actually image of the Air Force standards. I must be astray. with the Air Force’s expectations, on and join a professional organization. I always aligned with the Air Force’s instructions, no Airmen are professionals 24/7. In a off duty. One problem, I had no idea what thought just showing up to the meetings matter the cost, and this will guarantee my world filled with people chasing individual the Air Force expected of me as an Airman. was enough. Now this is just a start of the actions mirror the Air Force’s values and pleasures and shortcuts to success, strive for I found the answer to that when I began standards I have to unify my actions with. not my own. what is right according to the Air Force Core reading Air Force Instruction 36-2618, The Keeping all this in mind, what does it do for I may want to put my hands in my pock- Values and not your own values. Enlisted Force Structure, The Little Brown me or the Air Force? ets, but the Air Force says that I can’t so I I will no longer let my oath be a murmur Book, The Air Force Core Values, and The If I adhere to these expectations, then I won’t. I may want to carry a multi-colored out of my mouth but a statement that says Little Blue Book. After reading these, I would guarantee my place among the Air gym bag, but the Air Force says that I can’t I am part of something bigger than me. My was left feeling inadequate and realized I Force elite. I would never have an issue so I don’t. I may want to inflate an evalu- commitment to the Air Force will no longer did not display the integrity the Air Force filling lines in my evaluation or award pack- ation, but I have to be honest and compare be defined by ignorance. Will yours? Air Force Reservist saves Airman’s arm after ATV rollover By Air Force Maj. Ashley Conner 477th Fighter Group Public Affairs

The swift actions of an Air- man during an all-terrain ve- hicle accident saved the limb and probably the life of a fellow Airman. Airman 1st Class Makayla Conant, 477th Security Forces Squadron, was the passenger in a large side-by-side ATV being driven by fellow 477th SFS mem- ber, Air Force Staff Sgt. Philip Strumsky, when the ATV fell on its side after accelerating too quickly from a stopped position. “The ATV flipped over on my side and the roll cage landed on my arm just below my elbow and trapped me in,” Strumsky said. “It was excruciating pain, and I looked down to see if my hand was still attached.” Conant immediately unbuck- led herself and Strumsky – who was wearing his seat belt, helmet and gloves – and with the help of another friend lifted the roll cage off of Strumsky. “We had just completed Com- bat Casualty Care training during Commando Warrior in Guam, Air Force Staff Sgt. Philip Strumsky underwent four surgeries to repair his arm after an ATV accident. The actions of Airman 1st Class where they taught us what to do Makayla Conant saved his arm. Both Airmen are Reservists assigned to the 477th Security Forces Squadron. (Courtesy Photo) during a Humvee roll over and how to handle that kind of situa- said. “She remembered her training rived followed by an ambulance said. “There wasn’t any alcohol other outdoor enthusiasts. tion,” Conant said. “My instincts and they immediately got me out. that took Strumsky to the Mat-Su involved, they were all wearing “It really is important to make kicked in, and I did what anyone I was glad. I knew I needed an Regional Hospital for X-rays. He the appropriate safety protection sure that you take a friend with else in the situation would have ambulance. Quick.” was then transported to the JBER gear, they had a wingman and you when you go out,” Strumsky done.” The group was on an isolated hospital where he was met by his they remembered their training. said. “If I had been riding alone Conant applied a T-shirt to dirt road five miles from civiliza- girlfriend, Lindsey, and 477th SFS Self-aid and buddy care is more that day, I doubt I would have the wound, which was bleeding tion near Houston, Alaska. Their superintendent, Air Force Master than just computer-based training. been able to free myself with one heavily, stabilized his arm, and friend rode out to the main road to Sgt. Hiram Gunter. It is applicable training that could working arm.” called 911. meet the paramedics and lead them “I was very proud of how save a life.” The 477th Security Forces “I was very impressed that she back to the scene. Makayla responded and glad that After four surgeries and seven Squadron is nominating Conant for didn’t hesitate or have a deer-in- A member from the Houston [Staff Sgt.] Strumsky wasn’t hurt days in the hospital Strumsky was a decoration for her rescue efforts the-headlights moment,” Strumsky Volunteer Fire Department ar- any worse than he was,” Gunter released. He has some advice for that day. Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson/ JBER Public Affairs Director 673d Air Base Wing Commander Maj. Angela Webb (USAF) Col. Brian R. Bruckbauer (USAF) ARCTIC WARRIOR Deputy Public Affairs Director Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson/ The Arctic Warrior is published by Wick Communica- available for purchase, use or patronage without regard to race, Bob Hall tions, a private firm in no way connected with the Department color, religion, gender, national origin, age, marital status, 673d Air Base Wing Vice Commander of Defense, the Department of the Air Force or the Department physical handicap, political affiliation or any other non-merit Col. William P. Huber (USA) of the Army, under exclusive written contract with the Joint factor of the purchaser, user or patron. Public Affairs Superintendent Base Elmendorf-Richardson Public Affairs Office. To advertise in the Arctic Warrior, please call (907) Senior Master Sgt. Michael Hammond This civilian enterprise newspaper is an authorized pub- 561-7737. Editorial content is edited, prepared and provided Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson/ lication for members of the U.S. military services. Contents of by the Arctic Warrior staff. 673d Air Base Wing Command Chief the Arctic Warrior are not necessarily the official views of, or Editorial office and mailing address: JBER Public Command Information Chief Chief Master Sgt. Garry E. Berry II endorsed by, the U.S. government, Department of Defense, the Affairs, 10480 Sijan Ave., Suite 123, Joint Base Elmendorf- Erin Eaton Department of the Air Force or the Department of the Army. Richardson, AK 99506; telephone (907) 552-8918. The appearance of advertising in this publication, includ- Send emails about news stories and story submissions Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson/ ing inserts or supplements, does not constitute endorsement by to [email protected]. Arctic Warrior staff 673d Air Base Wing U.S. government, the Department of Defense, the Department Deadline for article and photos is 4:30 p.m., Monday, for David Bedard - editor of the Air Force, the Department of the Army, or Wick Com- the week of publication. Articles and photos will be published Command Sergeant Major munications of the products or services advertised. on a space-available basis and are subject to editing by the Arc- Chris McCann - community editor Command Sgt. Maj. Eugene J. Moses Everything advertised in this publication shall be made tic Warrior staff. Submission does not guarantee publication. Ed Cunningham - webmaster July 18, 2014 News A-3

titude was the start of my career.” STANDOUT AIRMANVenning said, early in his career, he 673d CONS had the mentality ‘If my answer is right, everyone is wrong,’ and it took a few good superintendent noncommissioned officers along the way and a couple of senior noncommissioned officers to straighten him out. an Airman of “This was not the right approach.” Ven- ning said. “It’s okay to be right, but that doesn’t mean everybody else is wrong.” the year Venning persevered to serve in the mili- tary and – prior to his first reenlistment – he By Air Force Staff Sgt. Sheila deVera became a U.S. citizen in 2005. JBER Public Affairs In 2006, Venning retrained into contract- ing. During his first contracting assignment Moving from Australia to Europe and at one of the largest operational contracting then to Florida, the 14-year veteran wanted units at Peterson Air Force Base, Colo., he to do something with his life. As a U.S. Air became a contracting officer warrant after Force family member, he saw what the Air less than two years in the career field. Force had to offer – working with people, Venning said if people are afraid to fail, seeing the world, doing something different then they are not going to try harder at what and challenging himself. they are doing. Air Force Senior Master Sgt. Michael “We are not going to be growing, we are Venning, 673d Contracting Squadron su- not going to be innovating,” the father of perintendent, did just that and was recently Senior Master Sgt. Michael Venning, 673d Contracting Squadron superintendent, uses three said. “You’ve got to say yes to every named as one of the Air Force’s 12 Outstand- the “3-in-1” tool, a contingency contracting purchasing device, to assist an Army opportunity and don’t be afraid to fail.” ing Airmen of the Year. customer purchase some supplies at Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson. Venning “Outside the Air Force three core values, is one of the Air Force’s 12 Outstanding Airmen of the Year. The award recognizes “I was involved in a lot of Department 12 outstanding enlisted service members for superior leadership, job performance, I believe in teamwork and hard work,” said of Defense and joint contracting initiatives community involvement and personal achievements. (U.S. Air Force photo/Airman Venning. “I know they are part of the core anywhere from training the Army on their 1st Class Ty-Rico Lea) values, but when you emphasize those, there new system that is being develop for con- is nothing you cannot accomplish.” tingency contracting environment as well Having deployed on 12 temporary-duty was really good that I could explain to my Through multiple deployments and as the contracting mission,” Venning said. “I assignments in 2013 away from home sta- family how I affect the broader Air Force readiness exercises during his career, he also was also selected to pioneer the contracting tion, the Melbourne, Australia, native said mission and my dad is very proud.” earned a below-the-zone promotion and was electronic training record implementation he had a great year. Prior to his most recent accolades, Ven- the John L. Levitow award recipient twice plans for the career field manager.” “My wife, Laura, felt the brunt of my ning joined the military in 2000 and easily at Airman Leadership School and Noncom- As a front man of a 12-member execu- TDYs, but I was fully supported by my stood out amongst his peers. Upon graduation missioned Officer Academy. Venning also tive demonstration travel team, Venning has wife,” said the father of three. “My children from Basic Military Training at Lackland Air was named as the unit’s NCO of the Year traveled to numerous locations to help train think it was really cool for me to go out and Force Base, Texas, as an element leader, he consecutively for 2007, 2008 and 2009. DoD personnel. talk to all these people.” went to Sheppard Air Force Base, Texas, for While attending the Senior Noncommis- “Just like what [Air Force Chief of Staff] While his situation is unique, he said his technical training in electrical power produc- sioned Officer Academy, he was selected Gen. [Mark] Welsh and [Chief Master Sgt family in Australia couldn’t be more proud tion and was a distinguished graduate. as the SNCOA distinguished graduate and of the Air Force] James Cody said, ‘Your of him. “Looking back, I did what I was told — commandant’s award winner. In addition to performance has to come first above all “A lot of times, my family doesn’t under- they give you rules and instructions to help his accomplishments, he was selected as the things.’ You have to be really good at what stand what it is we do in the Air Force. They you succeed,” Venning said. “Doing what Air Force Materiel Command Contracting you do,” Venning said. think everyone fly planes,” said Venning. “It you are supposed to do with a positive at- SNCO of the Year.

From AFSCs l A-1 the 101st Airborne Division. He curacy equation, Brock said it is made rank and eventually became a important for advanced marksmen Airmen should check their respec- sniper team leader before reassign- to become familiar with a newly tive AFSC, grade or year group ment to then-Fort Richardson with assigned weapon and to maintain on the updated matrices posted on the 4th Battalion, 23rd Infantry accurate data on how the weapon myPers to ensure they know their Regiment. behaves in varying conditions. latest status. After leaving the Army, Re- “Each weapon system is dif- The enlisted retention boards loza joined the Air National Guard ferent,” Brock said. “They are and officer enhanced selective and is a technical sergeant in the each within a half minute of angle early retirement board for Airmen 176th Security Forces Squadron (1/2-inch at 100 meters) accuracy, who are still eligible will occur as a Combat Arms instructor. His however they are shooter- and in June. Guard status mirrors his civil- ammo-dependent.” “Based on our discussions ian duties, and he helps 673d Some of the sharpshooters’ with Air Force senior leaders, the SFS Airmen share his pursuit of techniques can seem like black secretary and I decided to retain eliminating the small things that magic. Brock said a well-trained 4,000 Airmen who were previ- preclude precision fire. Things like marksman can use a strong wind ously eligible for the involuntary ammunition. to curve a bullet to hit a target be- retention boards this summer,” M118 7.62-mm Special Ball hind cover. At longer ranges with said Air Force Chief of Staff Gen. long-range ammunition is designed higher-caliber weapons such as Air Force Staff Sgt. Ryan Link, a native of West Branch, Mich., as- Mark A. Welsh III. “This adjust- signed to the 673d Security Forces Squadron, ejects an expended specifically for precision rifles used the .50-caliber M107 Long Range ment is necessary because we’re casing from his weapon while training with the M24 Sniper Weapon by the Department of Defense. Sniper Rifle, shooters have to ac- not sure whether we’ll be allowed System on Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson July 11. (U.S. Air Force Despite being manufactured to count for the bullet being subject to execute the difficult decisions photo/Justin Connaher) tight tolerances, M118 ammuni- to the Coriolis effect. we made to divest force structure tion is still subject to small vari- “When you get into long-dis- next year and because of our recent From MARKSMEN l A-1 infinitesimally adding pressure ances. Reloza said it is important tance shooting, you actually have decision to increase manning in the until the trigger group activated the to register a lot of ammunition to factor the rotation of the earth, nuclear mission. target’s torso. rifle’s firing pin. Bang. – manufactured in a batch at the because the target won’t be at the “We don’t want to cut a single “On target at four,” said Link, “Beautiful,” Link breathed in a same time – to ensure consistent same location once the bullet gets Airman more than the number a native of West Branch, Mich., hushed tone, scrutinizing the target results. This information and a host there,” Brock said. absolutely necessary to keep our indicating a range of 400 meters. through the spotting scope. “Good of other parameters, are recorded During the course of the day, force in balance. This adjustment is “Send it when ready.” hit … center of mass.” as “data on previous engagement” 673d SFS Airmen engaged targets another action that keeps us aligned The order cleared Brock to In contrast to Brock, Reloza’s in a notebook. at known and unknown ranges in with that principle. Thanks again shoot once he gained a good firing childhood was replete with fire- DOPE also includes how the prone, kneeling and over-barricade for who you are, what you do and solution. He gingerly wrapped his arms and marksmanship. The rifle behaves under different at- positions in order to keep qualifica- what you stand for,” Welsh said. fingers around a dial at the top of instructor said he competed in mospheric conditions. Because tion on the M24 SWS. Updates to information on the sight. Click. Click. The sight riflery at Anchorage’s Bartlett High the climate is so different in places For Brock and Reloza – two force management and other per- was set for 400 meters. School where he also enrolled in like Afghanistan, and because Air- sharpshooters who couldn’t have sonnel programs will continue to The sharpshooter breathed Army Junior ROTC. These expe- men likely won’t deploy with their had more different backgrounds be available on myPers. Airmen in and firmly exhaled, eliminat- riences gave him a penchant for home lot of ammunition, Reloza with firearms – it was another day can also use the force management ing any shake induced from his precision weapons fire and a yen said they will be assigned a de- on the beat. They both picked up graphic on the Air Force Portal, rhythmic breathing. The scope for military service. ployed lot and will consequently their first rifles at vastly different which will take them to updated crosshairs hovered over the target. Reloza joined the Army as an build a new DOPE log. ages, but time, experience and matrices and force management Brock’s finger cradled the curve of infantryman, his first assignment Because these seemingly small training ensures both are always program details. the trigger and slowly squeezed, was at Fort Campbell, Ky., with factors quickly add up in the ac- ready to find their mark.

From KNIGHT l A-1 from Magsig to Knight is a visible deployment to Afghanistan as com- expression of the faith and confi- mand sergeant major with another serve as the honorary command dence Magsig places in Knight’s Alaska-based unit, the 1st Stryker sergeant major.” abilities to fulfill the obligations Brigade Combat Team, 25th Infan- The honorary command ser- of his newly-appointed position. try Division. geant major serves as the link be- “I first witnessed the depth His military and civilian educa- tween all members in the battalion of Command Sergeant Major tion includes all levels of the NCO currently serving and those who Knight’s knowledge in December Education System, the U.S. Army have served before. 2012 at the Black Rapid Training Sergeants Major Academy, Ranger Inducting an honorary com- Site in Central Alaska while attend- School, Long Range Surveillance mander or command sergeant ing the Cold Weather Orientation Leader’s Course, Marine Corps major is unlike a change-of-com- Course,” the Blue Geronimo com- Sniper School, Marine Corps mand or a change-of-responsibility mander and native of Nashville, Infantry Mortar School, Bradley ceremony. Instead of passing the Tenn., shared with the audience. Fighting Vehicle Course, Jungle unit colors from an outgoing com- “I know all of USARAK’s Survival Course, Survival Escape mander to an incoming commander leaders walked away from that Resistance to Interrogation and or command sergeant major, a event remarking at the mentorship Retired Command Sgt. Maj. Bernie Knight gives his comments after Evasion Course, Basic Recruiter symbol of honor that represents they received from ‘The Arctic being inducted as the honorary command sergeant major of the 1st School, Jump Master School, and the lineage of the unit is bestowed Yoda,’” Magsig said. “For Com- Battalion (Airborne), 501st Infantry Regiment Monday. (U.S. Army Pathfinder School. Knight earned upon the honorary commander and mand Sergeant Major Rucker and photo/Sgt. Eric-James Estrada) an associate’s degree in general command sergeant major. me, that mentorship has continued studies from Barton County Com- For the paratroopers of Blue as Command Sergeant Major It was Knight’s six years with repeat itself.” munity College in Great Bend, Geronimo, that symbol is the ar- Knight has never done a very the 1st Battalion (Airborne), 501st Knight reminded the paratroop- Kan. row for the honorary commander good job hiding his love for this Infantry Regiment, serving as a ers of Blue Geronimo they are a Knight’s awards include: the and for the honorary command battalion.” platoon sergeant, then operations special and determined force and Legion of Merit, Bronze Star with sergeant major, it’s the tomahawk. In 2007, Knight deployed to sergeant major, and finally as Blue he stands ready to offer his knowl- two oak leaf clusters, Meritorious The arrow represents the moral Iraq as command sergeant major Geronimo’s senior-enlisted advisor edge whenever needed. Service Medal with six oak leaf compass and sense of purpose and of Blue Geronimo in what would that would hold the unit close to “You are the manpower,” clusters, Army Commendation direction the honorary commander be a hard-fought, 15-month de- his heart. Knight said. “Everybody knows Medal with four oak leaf clusters, provides. ployment. “It was the second deploy- that hard work is done by the Sol- Army Achievement Medal with The tomahawk symbolizes “I stand here and I look through ment since Vietnam that the 501st diers, the paratroopers contained eight oak leaf clusters, Valorous the lethal force of the NCO Corps the crowd and I look at the Geron- had deployed,” Knight told the within this organization. Anything Unit Award, Combat Infantry necessary to complete the mission; imo’s that were here when I was audience. “It was a 15-month de- that I can pass on to help you with Badge with Star, Expert Infantry it also resembles a primitive ice here many moons ago and before ployment and most of us thought the next deployment, I would Badge, Master Parachutist Badge, pick to reinforce the battalion’s me and I look over there and I see we were only going to be there gladly do.” Ranger Tab, Pathfinder Badge, and additional requirement for arctic first sergeants that served with me for a year and the news was not Knight’s final assignment was the Gold Recruiter Badge. He is a proficiency. on our deployment to Iraq,” Knight good, but I tell you through the that of U.S. Army Alaska’s top- recipient of the British and Thai The passing of the Tomahawk recalled. 72 months, history continues to enlisted leader after a yearlong parachutist badges. BriefsA-4 ARCTIC WARRIOR & Announcements July 18, 2014 Utilities upgrades tent Services, a service for building ardson’s Attic, located in building two years from the date of the PCS tual relationship, with the intent to As part of Doyon Utilities’ digital libraries of content with 8515 off of 20th Street, is open orders and are in the program for deprive the owner of the property continuing effort to improve and online access. on Tuesdays for paygrades E-1 one year. temporarily or permanently. modernize the utility infrastruc- Hours of operation are 7 a.m. to to E-4 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. and Military spouses who have Claims not covered by Article ture, the organization is engaged 3:30 p.m. Monday through Friday. 6 p.m. to 8 p.m.; Wednesdays for never filled a federal position can 139 are: in a multi-year project to upgrade For more information visit paygrades E-1 to E-6 from 10 a.m. now register for PPP. This program • Claims resulting from negli- the JBER-Richardson electrical www.documentservices.dla.mil, to 2 p.m., and the first Saturday of was previously limited to spouses gent acts such as normal “fender- distribution system to improve visit the office at 984 Warehouse the month for all paygrades from on a current federal appointment or benders” or other such accidents; system efficiency, reduce service Street, or call 384-2901. 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. those who formerly had a federal • Claims for personal injury interruptions, and improve person- For more information, call the position. or death; nel safety. U-Fix-It Store Attic at 552-5878. Military spouses can register • Claims resulting from acts or Unfortunately, this work has The U-Fix-it Store is located at the Civilian Personnel Office at omissions of military personnel recently resulted in a series of in Building 706 and is open to all Veterinary hours JBER-Elmendorf or the personnel acting within the scope of their short power outages. Doyon Utili- Aurora Military Housing tenants. Though the Veterinary Treat- office at JBER-Richardson. The employment (these may be payable ties regrets any inconvenience this Assorted items for maintaining ment Facility primarily works on JBER point of contact is Brenda as a tort claim); may have caused and is working your home may be issued from the military working dogs, the facility Yaw at 552-9203. • Claims resulting from the to avoid unnecessary service inter- U-Fix-It Store. also provides services for pets of conduct of Reserve Component ruptions. The items available are subject active duty service members, re- Furnishing Management personnel who are not subject to Work on this system is ex- to change and limits and some tirees, National Guard and Reserve The Furnishings Management the UCMJ at the time of the offense; pected to continue through 2016. may have a cost. There are also service members on active orders Office offers 90-day loaner fur- • Subrogation claims. That This summer’s work is to improve American flag kits and fire extin- (greater than 30 days), and their niture. Appliances may be issued is a claim where your insurance Spartan substation, which controls guishers available. U-Fix-It work dependents. for the duration of the service company pays you and then seeks and regulates the distribution of includes all home maintenance The VTF is capable of provid- member’s tour. reimbursement; and electricity throughout the instal- activities. ing care for most routine services, FMO typically delivers items • Claims for theft of services. lation and in the past has been a Its purpose is to allow the occu- including vaccination and sick call. as far as Peters Creek or Rabbit Claimants should submit claims single point of failure in the electri- pant to make minor improvements The VTF is open Monday Creek. Service members must within 90 days of the incident from cal network. and repairs to their home and cut through Wednesday, 8 a.m. to 4 make special arrangements beyond which the claim arose unless there To minimize impacts, Doyon down on the number of service p.m.; and Friday, 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. these areas. is good cause for the delay. is working closely with installa- orders. For more information and to When requesting furniture, ser- Your claim must be presented tion officials to schedule work that There are two stores located make an appointment, call 384- vice members must provide a copy either orally or in writing. If pre- could potentially result in an outage on base. 2865. of their reporting orders. sented orally, the claim must be for completion during off-peak pe- The JBER-Elmendorf location For JBER-Elmendorf, visit the reduced to a signed writing within riods. If another outage does occur, is 6350 Arctic Warrior Drive and Richardson Thrift Shop Capital Asset Management Office 10 days after oral presentation. utilities electrical crews will act it is open 8:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., The JBER-Richardson Thrift at Building 6436, Monday through Claims should be filed by quickly to restore service. Tuesday through Friday and Satur- Shop, located in building 724, Friday, 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., or call branch of service. For claims When work is completed on the day, 9 a.m. to noon and 1 to 4 p.m. Quartermaster Drive, is open 552-2740. against Army members, contact substation this summer, the instal- (closed for lunch noon to 1 p.m.). Monday through Thursday from 10 For JBER-Richardson, visit the Army claims office in Bldg. lation will see an improvement in The JBER-Richardson location a.m. to 2 p.m., and first and third the Housing Management Office 600, Suite 313, at 384-0330. For overall system redundancy and is Building 706 1st St., open from Saturdays from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Building 600, Monday through claims against Air Force members, reliability. 8:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., Monday Consignments are accepted Friday, 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., or call contact the Air Force claims office through Friday. Tuesdays and Thursdays. 384-2576. in the People Center, Suite 330 at DLA Document Services A window blind cleaning ma- For more information, call the 552-3048. Defense Logistics Agency chine is currently located at the Thrift Shop at 384-7000. Article 139 claims Claims relating to members of Document Services duplicates and JBER-Elmendorf location. A Uniform Code of Military any other branch may be made at prints documents. A “reservation required to use” Priority placement Justice Article 139 claim is a claim the Army claims office and will be Document Services documents policy is in place with the priority The Priority Placement Pro- against any service member for forwarded to the proper service. including black and white, color, going to military members PCS- gram and Executive Order 13473 willfully damaging or wrongfully large format, photographic prints, ing. For more information, call provide non-competitive appoint- taking property while the service Quartermaster Laundry engineering drawings, sensitive 375-5540. ment for spouses of active duty ser- member is not on duty. Claimants The Quartermaster Laundry, materials, technical manuals and vice members, including full-time are eligible to file an Article 139 located at 726 Quartermaster Road, training materials. The shop is able JBER Bargain Shop National Guard and Reservists, claim whether they are civilian or cleans TA-50 gear for free and is to handle the design, printing and The JBER-Elmendorf Bargain who are relocating to accompany military, a business, a charity, a open Monday through Friday 7:30 distribution of business cards, let- Shop, located in building 8515 their service member during a per- State or local government. a.m. to 4:30 p.m. terhead, invitations and programs. Saville off of 20th Street, is open manent change of station. Claims covered by Article Document Services’ Equipment Tuesday and Wednesday 10 a.m. to The program allows spouses to 139 are: Giant Voice testing Management Solutions Program 2 p.m. and the first Saturday of the register for Department of Defense • Claims for damage to prop- Giant Voice mass notifica- provides networked multifunc- month 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Consign- positions and to be considered for erty inflicted intentionally, know- tion system testing occurs every tional devices that print, scan, copy ments are accepted Wednesdays 10 jobs offered internally. Spouses ingly, purposefully, and without a Wednesday at noon. If the an- and fax. a.m. to 12:30 p.m. are matched against potential posi- justifiable excuse. nouncement is difficult to hear or Production facilities offer scan- For more information, please tions, which meet their qualifica- • Claims for property wrong- understand, please call 552-3000. ning and conversion services for all call 753-6134. tions and preferences. fully taken. A wrongful taking in If the announcement is difficult types of documents. Job placement will vary with an unauthorized taking or with- to hear or understand in any base Document Services also offers JBER’s Attic each individual. The spouse re- holding of property not involving housing area, please contact JBER Document Automation and Con- Joint Base Elmendorf-Rich- mains eligible for a maximum of a breach of a fiduciary or contrac- at Facebook.com/JBERAK. COMMUNITY July 18, 2014 ARCTIC WARRIOR Volume 5, No. 28 SETTING THEM UP FOR SUCCESS JBER Boy Scout troops mentor next generation “It helps them mature; they’re of leaders learning person- al-management Scouts from the 190th Boy Scout Troop place flags at the By Chris McCann skills and orga- Fort Richardson cemetery. (Courtesy photo/Ken Desaussure) JBER Public Affairs nization.” On Memorial sometimes you’re just the cargo. But they’re DeSaussure’s Day and Veterans’ all important. Summer in Alaska is often jammed full son, Grady, is 14 and Day, they place flags “The course culminates in a trust fall, of activities – from filling the freezer with also a Scout. Though he doesn’t plan on the graves of those who made the but not just falling backward – you’re fall- salmon to just camping and enjoying the on a military career at this point, he said ultimate sacrifice. ing from four or five feet up into a crowd warm days that seem to come to an end all he’s reaping the benefits of Scouting. Senior Airman Ross Whitley, a vid- of people.” too soon. “Things like knot-tying, I don’t use that eographer with the 673d Air Base Wing, “I didn’t think it would transfer to the For Boy Scouts, camping happens in day-to-day life,” he said. “But respon- serves as the assistant Scoutmaster for the military as well as it does,” Whitley said. both summer and winter – and there are sibility and taking control of a situation, 540th. He has been involved in Scouting “But really it transfers to anything – any plenty of other activities for colder winter leadership skills, I use a lot.” almost all his life. job you have, you’re going to have the same months. He cited group projects at school, often “When I was a pre-teen and a teenager, basic structure. Scouting really teaches you Ken Desaussure is the committee chair- the bane of students, as an area he’s im- my home life wasn’t very good,” Whitley about small-group leadership and group man for the 190th Boy Scout Troop, one of proved in. said. “If I was home, I was either in my dynamics.” the two troops on Joint Base Elmendorf- “After [starting] Scouts, when I started room doing nothing, or getting yelled at. The hierarchy of a troop is broadly simi- Richardson. A 26-year Air Force crew chief, learning, I tend to take charge; things are Scouts was a place I could be myself with lar to the military; several boys make up a he now oversees part of the Boy Scouts done on time, and they’re done well.” my friends and strive for something.” patrol, roughly like an Army squad, except program. Grady said he’d like to be a marine bi- As an older Scout, he participated in the the patrol leader is elected by the boys. The 190th comprises eight boys between ologist. Fortunately, the Scouting program Challenging Outdoor Physical Encounter, The senior patrol leader would be equiv- 11 and 14 – though the age limit is 18. They offers more than 100 different merit badges which focuses on climbing skills and devel- alent to a platoon sergeant, but also elected. meet weekly at the chalet at Sixmile Lake. in many different areas. ops leadership skills. Adults are just facilitators, Whitley Another troop on JBER, the 540th, is “Along with outdoorsmanship, there’s “You have to work together to overcome explaned. hoping to draw more boys to their closer- fishing, wildlife conservation, things like obstacles” just like a military obstacle “It’s a boy-led program. The adults to-home meeting place at Building TDM02, that,” he said. “All those are useful here in course, he said. “There’s the spiderweb, a are just there to make sure the boys don’t between the credit union and the Bioenvi- Alaska.” rope net you have to get everyone through get hurt, and to take care of the adminis- ronmental building on JBER-Richardson. For a boy who’s not sure whether to get without touching the rope. You have to get trative things, like making sure the bank DeSaussure was involved in Scouting involved, Grady Desaussure said he whole- everyone on your team over a high wall.” account is up-to-date for camping trips or himself, attaining the rank of Eagle Scout. heartedly recommends the program. Since everyone has different strengths, buying supplies.” He said his experiences set him up for suc- “From Boy Scouts, you can learn to rock positions shift throughout the weekend’s Boys in high school can strive for the cess in the Air Force, from goal-setting to climb, shoot rifles, anything,” he said. “You activities. highest rank: Eagle Scout. leadership. get to meet new people, and help a lot of “You’re ‘captain, crew or cargo’, and Getting there requires a major com- “As far as the boys, it gives them some- people as well.” every one of those is important,” Whitley munity-service project. The prospective thing to work for,” he said. “It also gets Around the holidays, the troop helps explained. “Sometimes you’re the team Eagle Scout must create detailed plans and parents involved; we have a couple of dads out at Bean’s Cafe, serving meals to the leader, who delegates the tasks; sometimes explanations, lead the crew in executing, and go camping with us every time we go out. homeless. you’re on the crew that does them, and create a review or summary of the project. Whitley’s Eagle Scout project was re- shingling a garage for a church – a 27-by-18 foot A-frame roof. “It’s your responsibility to get the materi- als – usually donations from local businesses – and the volunteers to work,” he said. Patrol and troop members usually pro- vide the manpower. “I got the materials, but I didn’t know how to shingle a roof, so I asked a local roofing company. They sent a couple of guys to show us what to do, and to make sure we were doing it right, according to building codes and regulations, using the tar paper correctly. We had about 30 people, boys 11 to about 16, plus a few adults. I expected it to take a whole day, or even two days, but we were done in about four hours.” It’s not just the leadership skills that have stuck with him, Whitley said; it’s the values. The Scout Law lists 12 qualities a Scout must have. “I can recite the Scout Law more easily than I can the Airman’s Creed,” Whitley said. “When I find myself on a wrong path, I can think about that oath and find out where I’m going wrong and fix it. “It’s the ‘Scout law,’ but it’s really twelve values every man needs to have,” Whitley said. “It’s a program to turn boys into good men.” “The things they instill in boys – I be- Eagle Scout Alex Flores, 16, with JBER Troop 504, rappels down a cliff face at Camp Gorsuch Boy Scout camp where Boy Scout lieve in them so highly, that’s why I still troops 109 and 504 from Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson were camping for the week and performing tasks to earn scouting work with Scouts.” badges June 23, 2011. (U.S. Air Force photo/Justin Connaher) Opportunities abound for families of deployed troops By Airman 1st Class have to do to sign up for the event of free childcare is provided every before a deployment to ensure they vide help to families. Tammie Ramsouer is to show their spouse’s orders,” month to spouses. are aware of the procedures. The Aurora Housing office JBER Public Affairs said Tech. Sgt. Bradley Kecker, “The Family Readiness Center The program supports the also offers programs to residents JBER Military and Family Readi- had many activities to prepare our family before, during and after de- of base housing. A mother and child hold the ness Center noncommissioned kids, help them during [the deploy- ployment with many opportunities “We mow and trim yards week- most precious person in the world officer-in-charge. ment] and assist in welcoming their such as financial readiness classes, ly during the summer and provide to them: her husband and the “The trip that we will be going Dad back from his deployments,” disaster preparedness and crisis snow removal during the winter,” child’s father, before he leaves on July 20, will be to the Alaska Rothstein said. intervention, family care plan- said Amy Sneed, Aurora Hous- on a six-month deployment to Zoo, but the events change quar- The JBER Military and Family ning and even master resiliency ing Deployed Spouse’s Program Afghanistan. terly. Readiness Center offers Opera- training. manager. “We also offer one non- Moments like these happen “It’s an event for them to get tion Read With Me, where parents “We have resiliency training traditional work order per month, every day on military bases. out of the house and just do some- have the opportunity to record on the Army side and we teach our so residents are eligible to call in Fortunately, there are programs thing fun,” he said. themselves on a free 30-minute key spouses about how to be a key for an hour of service for items that designed for deploying military “The Hearts Apart program video while reading their children’s caller, and how to keep in touch may need to be assembled, such members and their families for provided much-needed social favorite books before their deploy- with other families during that as hanging shelves, or rearranging support and help while their loved interaction during my husband’s ment. Then children can watch deployment time,” said Lisa Wil- furniture.” ones are in another country. deployments,” said Merideth the video later, when the parent is liams, Army Community Service Before individuals can receive The key spouses program is Rothstein, wife of Air Force gone. (Many deployed locations Welcome Center family readiness these monthly incentives, they one of the prominent programs on Master Sgt. Howard Rothstein, offer the same service, for updating program manager. must bring a copy of their spon- Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson, 3rd Maintenance Group product the story choices.) Key callers are family mem- sor’s orders to Aurora Housing Alaska. improvement manager. “This “We have many other offers bers who make morale calls to or in building 338, and fill out a More than 100 key spouses program was a lifeline for me and for the families, like putting a other family members of deployed Deployed Spouses Program enroll- are actively involved with com- my family.” photo of their deployed loved one spouses to make sure they are do- ment form. manders and first sergeants and When parents need a reprieve on a pillow case or T-shirt through ing well and if that family member All of these programs are of- ensure information about deployed or just need child-free time to get Operation Sweet Dreams,” Kecker needs help or a day to get out of fered to all military branches and members and support groups is errands done, the Give Parents said. the house, the key caller will try to their families on JBER. available. a Break Program allows them to The car care program is a ser- arrange help to that spouse. For more information about More programs can be found have a four-hour break free of vice for families while their spouse “We do keep in touch with the programs offered to military through the JBER Military and charge. is deployed. them on a regular basis because members and their families on Family Readiness Center and the “This program is paid for by They receive a one-time oil we deploy quite a few military JBER contact the JBER Military Army Community Service Wel- the Air Force Aid Society, and change and safety check voucher, members at a time, so it can be and Family Readiness center at come Center on JBER. parents call to schedule their child good for 30 days at the Army and overwhelming for families,” Wil- 552-4943 or the Army Community One of these is the Hearts Apart for the specific time they want to Air Force Exchange Service ser- liams said. Service Welcome Center at 384- Program. drop them off at any of the Child vice station on JBER, Kecker said. The JBER Military and Family 1517. For more information about “In the Hearts Apart Program, Development Centers,” Kecker The Family Readiness Program Readiness Center and Army Com- the services the Aurora Housing we do events for family members said. briefs this information to all mili- munity Service Welcome Center office offers, call them at 552-4439 of the sponsors, and all the spouses Through the program, 16 hours tary members and their families are not the only services that pro- or 384-3907. Matters of Faith B-2 ARCTIC WARRIOR July 18, 2014 Five magic hours can build a stronger marriage bond Commentary by Chaplain (Maj.) basically anything you want to talk about. Steven Richardson The important thing is to use the time 673d ABW Chaplain to reconnect. Third, Gottman recommends spending Most people in the lower 48 can only five minutes every day affirming and -ap dream of visiting Alaska and enjoying the preciating one another. activities we are privileged to engage in A good marriage has a culture of praise. every day. For example, tell your spouse how Alaska has great hiking, biking, fish- much you appreciate him or her taking out ing, camping, and sightseeing adventures. the trash, or warmly acknowledge the time The list of things to do is seemingly and energy he or she puts in to making endless. dinner. Taking advantage of all these oppor- Show your appreciation in words and in tunities while trying to fulfill our military deeds, and take every opportunity to offer responsibilities, however, can leave little praise. time for us to focus on one of life’s most Five minutes of praise to an overworked important relationships – our marriages. and stressed-out individual can make a world Dr. John Gottman, a marriage therapist of difference in that person’s life. and author from Seattle, says every couple You may be frustrated with your spouse can improve their marriage by investing or even in the middle of an argument, but each week in what he calls the “five magic establishing a culture of praise is a daily hours.” requirement. His first recommendation is for married Fourth, Gottman says we need to spend couples to take two minutes every work Soldiers participate in a marriage retreat at Contingency Operating Base Speicher, Iraq five minutes a day showing physical affec- day to say goodbye to one another. in 2010. Spending time together – even if it’s only half an hour a day and a weekly “date tion to our spouses. night,” can pay big rewards in keeping your marriage strong, despite the challenges of Two minutes may not sound like a lot military life. (U.S. Army photo/Sgt. Chad Nelson) Many guys tell me that they want to show of time; in fact, it might sound trivial – un- five minutes of affection every day, but their til you consider that it usually takes only If your spouse works a different sched- with your spouse at the end of every day. wives have too many headaches. 30 seconds or less for an average couple to ule and is normally asleep when you go to It doesn’t have to be as soon as you walk Affection can be as simple as a hug, say goodbye each morning. work, you can leave a note or call later in in the door, but the time together should be holding hands, or merely a hand on the You can use the two minutes Gottman the day. absent of distraction and convenient for shoulder or knee. recommends any way you choose: talk about The idea for this simple task is to be both of you. Small touches foster intimacy and your plans for the day, share what you want purposeful in your communication. Take the 20 minutes to talk about your strengthen marriages. to do that evening, even pray for one another. Second, spend 20 minutes reconnecting day, your hopes, your dreams, your life – Finally, Gottman recommends spending two hours every week on a date. That amount of time might seem unrea- sonable at first thought, but considering the beauty and opportunities Alaska offers, it can be easier to schedule than you might think. Even if you have small children in the home and cannot afford a babysitter every week, you can still do date-type activities. Put the kids to bed early then stay up late, play a game, have a conversation, take a walk around the block, whatever you both find enjoyable that helps you reconnect. You built a relationship by spending time together; keep it strong by continuing to do the things you used to do. Be creative. Regular date nights can be like spiritual glue to bond your hearts together. Alaska has so much to offer families and couples in the summer months. It might seem like there’s not enough time to do everything you want to do, but strive to carve out five hours a week and you will be well on your way to building and sustaining a lasting marriage. Doctor Gottman recommends it – and I guarantee it.

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Matanuska Glacier Traverse & Ice Climbing: July 19, 8 a.m. - 5 p.m. $99 Jim Creek/Hatcher Pass ATV Trip: July 26, 8 a.m. - 5 p.m. $150 Packraft Polo Eklutna ATV Trip: July 27, 9 a.m. - 5 p.m. $99 Eagle River Rafting Adventure: at OtterLake July 23, 24, 30 & 31, 5 - 8 p.m. $50 July 8 & 29 FREE Packraft Campbell Creek: July 25, 5 - 7 p.m. $50 Whittier Kayak Trip: July 26, 8 a.m. - 5 p.m. $90 Call 552-2023/4599 to sign up or for more information. Minimum and maximum sign up numbers apply to all trips and classes. Kayak Class: July 22 & 24, 6 - 8 p.m. $35 S.U.P.: July 7, 14, 21 & 28, 5 - 7 p.m. $25 Call 552-2023/4599 to sign up or for more information. Minimum and maximum sign up numbers apply to all trips and classes. Community Happenings July 18, 2014 ARCTIC WARRIOR B-3

Saturday For information, call 375-3583. colonists started with – agricul- tion, visit facebook.com/Anchor- Salmon Daze ture, produce, friends and family. ageDowntownPartnership. It may be Alaska’s most valu- Aug. 1 through 4 There are also concerts by KC and Chapel able resource – so celebrate salmon SeaFest weekend the Sunshine Band, Tesla, Seether AER scholarships in downtown Anchorage from Join the Alaska SeaLife Center and other big-name groups, giant Army Emergency Relief is tak- noon ‘til 6 p.m. Crafts, art and for a weekend of family fun – with vegetables, carnival rides and ing applications for scholarships. services plenty of salmon are on tap. art walks, races, and interactive much more at this end-of-summer Scholarships are available For information, visit anchor- activities. extravaganza. for children, spouses and other agedowntown.org. This wildlife rehabilitation For information, visit alas- dependents of active, retired and Catholic Mass center and public aquarium offers kastatefair.org. deceased Soldiers. Applications July 25 close encounters with puffins, sea and instructions are available at Sunday Live After Five downtown lions, octopuses and much more. Aug. 22 through 24 aerhq.org. 8:30 a.m. – Soldiers’ Chapel The Air Force Band of the For information, visit alaskas- Girdwood Fungus Fair For information, call 384-7478. Pacific is back in town for the ealife.org. Autumn in Alaska means 11:30 a.m. – Chapel 1 Arctic Thunder Open House – and mushrooms – morels, tree ears, Protestant Women of the they will be in Town Square Park August 9 and much more. Chapel meetings Monday through Friday from 5 to 8 p.m. for a free outdoor Alaska Track and Field Take a guided mushroom tour Women are invited to meet with 11:40 a.m. – Soldiers’ Chapel concert as part of the Live After This track-and-field meet is with a mycologist, use fungi to dye the Protestant Women of the Cha- Five series. open to all comers, all ages and all fibers, and learn to identify spe- pel. Bible study happens Tuesdays Monday, Tuesday, Wednes- For information, call 270- abilities at the Alaska Dome. cies. Or participate in the Fungus at 9:30 a.m. at Soldiers’ Chapel on day and Friday 5650 or visit anchoragedowntown. Same-day registration starts at Formal. JBER-Richardson. 11:30 a.m. – Chapel 1 org. 9:30 a.m.; the first field events start Events take place in the Gird- For information, email jber. at 10 and the first running event is wood Community room, starting [email protected] or call 384- Thursday July 26 at 11:30. at 1 p.m. Friday. 1461. 11:30 a.m. – Hospital Chapel Crow Pass Crossing For information, visit usatf.org. For information, visit fungus- The Crow Pass Crossing is fair.com. Model railroading Confession one of the toughest backcountry August 9 and 10 The Military Society of Mod- 30 minutes before Mass at the races in Alaska – 24 miles from Blueberry and music fest Sept. 5 through 7 el Railroad Engineers meets at chapel in which Mass is being the trailhead in Girdwood over the Alyeska Resort celebrates the Mountain Bike Festival 7 p.m. Tuesdays and 1 p.m. Sat- celebrated, or anytime by ap- rocky Crow Pass to the Eagle River lush blueberry season with this The Alyeska Resort hosts this urdays in basement Room 35 pointment. Call 552-5762 or Nature Center. family-oriented outdoor event. extravaganza of mountain biking, of Matanuska Hall, 7153 Fighter 384-5907 For information, call 786-1325. Arts and crafts booths, musi- including competitions, demon- Drive. Anyone interested in model cians, and all the blueberry con- strations, workshops and riding. railroading is invited. For informa- Religious Education July 26 and 27 coctions you can imagine or try Don’t miss the live music or the tion, call 552-4353, visit www. For religious education Arctic Thunder open house are on deck – plus, there are many tightrope ride. trainweb.org/msmrre or email summer schedule, please call Joint Base Elmendorf-Rich- blueberry patches in the area. Stake For information, visit alyesk- [email protected]. the Religious Operations Cen- ardson hosts the biennial open out your own. aresort.com. ter at 552-5762. house, this year featuring the Air For information visit alyes- Borealis Toastmasters Force Thunderbirds and civilian karesort.com or call (800) 880- Sept. 20 Conquer your fear of public aerial acts. 3880. Lyle Lovett concert speaking with Toastmasters. This The event also offers displays The Texas musician visits the safe, friendly club helps build con- Protestant Sunday and demonstrations of military August 16 Alaska Center for the Perform- fidence through speeches, feedback Services aircraft and equipment as well as Dog Days of Summer ing Arts with a fusion of country, and listening in a supportive envi- joint military demonstrations. Peratrovich Park (at E Street) swing, jazz, folk and blues. ronment. Meetings are Thursdays Liturgical Service For more information, visit hosts this dog-themed party with a For information, call 263-2787. in Room 146 of the BP building 9 a.m. – Chapel 2 www.jber.af.mil/arcticthunder. “stupid pet tricks” contest, demon- from 7 to 8 p.m. strations, canine-related products Ongoing For information, call 575-7470. Gospel Service July 31 and much more. Live After Five 9:30 a.m. – Chapel 1 Manifesting Love Bring your fuzzy pal or pals Town Square Park hosts this Wired Cafe for Airmen This workshop helps you break from noon to 4 p.m. weekly Friday-night concert series. The Wired Cafe at 7076 Fighter Community Service down barriers you may have, re- For information, call 279-5650. Admission is free, the music Drive has wireless Internet access 10:30 a.m. – Chapel 2 duce fears, and meet other singles is different every week, and food and programs for Airmen in the in an interactive environment. Autumn Wings Festival and beverages abound from 5 to 8 dorms. There are free meals Fri- Collective Service Workshop begins at 6:30 p.m. Join Bird Treatment and Learn- p.m. weekly. days at 6 p.m. 11 a.m. – Soldiers’ Chapel at the Alaska Center for Spiritual ing Center above Potter Marsh For information, visit anchor- For information, call 552-4422. Living. For information call 522- for this celebration of birds, the agedowntown.org. Contemporary Service 0940. outdoors, and Alaska’s version of Storytime for Toddlers 5 p.m. – Chapel 1 autumn from noon to 4 p.m. Music in the Park Pre-school-aged children Youth floor hockey For information, visit birdtlc. Every Wednesday from noon can join zoo staff for stories Religious Education The Salvation Army Commu- net. to 1 p.m., Peratrovich Park hosts about an animal species, followed For summer religious nity Center hosts this youth floor a musical performance. Get out of by meeting animals, starting at education schedule, please hockey from 2 to 3 p.m. Aug. 21 through Sept. 1 the office and enjoy music in the 10:30 a.m. Mondays at the coffee call the Religious Operations Youth 8 to 12-ish are invited Alaska State Fair open air. shop. Center at 552-5762. and all equipment is provided; The 78th annual Alaska State If it’s raining, concerts may be For information, email camp@ bring water, shorts and friends. Fair still features the things the cancelled; for up-to-date informa- alaskazoo.org.

Check out the eVents & activities Alaskan Adventurer FREE Eagleglen Have you checked Fitness Park out the fitness Park? BASKETBALL The Eagleglen Fitness Park is now open for CAMP all DoD cardholders and dependents to enjoy. Currently, the fitness park has two trails marked for walking, running or biking. The 1.5-mile and 5-kilometer courses are clearly July 21 - 25 marked for easy reference. The Force Support Squadron is in the process of adding picnic tables, frisbee golf, and other items to make the park enjoyable. The park is also a great KENNECOTT location to do individual or unit runs/PT. 1 - 3 p.m. Youth Center Please make sure you adhere to the Eagleglen Fitness Park RULES that are posted in order to make the park enjoyable Bldg. 6104 for all patrons. These include: PLEASE: PLEASE DO NOT:
Recreate at your own risk and
Use any type of firearm on this complex remember "SAFETY FIRST." (to include paintball or airsoft guns). For more information call 552-2266
Keep pets leashed at all times and
Operate motor vehicles anywhere on clean-up after them. this complex.
Beware of and never feed wildlife.
Start any open fires.
Use trails for foot and bike traffic.
Bring or consume alcoholic beverages.
Limit golf play to the driving range only
Enter any waterways or ponds. (driving range will not be open until mid-June).
Remain overnight. Field Trips At Kennecott
Depart the area at sunset
Hunt or fish. (closed during hours of darkness).
Litter. Riversyouth center If you have any questions, please contact the Mission Support Group at 552-3004. Bldg.2 297, 384-‐1508 | Facebook: TwoRiversYC ATTENTION! ! All Service Members & Dependents!

Photography Camp FREE | Ages 9 -‐ 18 JULY 21 -­ 25 Our REC ON program is back! If you are a Service Member or dependent, you are entitled discounted rates on some of Daily Activities Offered: College Prep, Sports & Fitness, Cooking, Arts & Crafts, & more! our activities! Check with our sta to see dates and times for these available activities! Call 552-4599/2023 for more information http://www.elmendorf-richardson.com Birth Announcements B-4 ARCTIC WARRIOR July 18, 2014

June 30 A daughter, Rory Elin Melsby, was born July 6 A daughter, Juliet Rose Smith, was born A son, Asher Elliot Low, was born 22 inches long and weighing 8 pounds, 13 A son, Kian Ameir-Wesley Joseph, was 18.5 inches long and weighing 5 pounds, 21 inches long and weighing 8 pounds, 7 ounces at 9:07 p.m. to Heather Melsby and born 20 inches long and weighing 7 pounds, 7 ounces at 1:54 a.m. to Sarah M. Smith ounces at 5:51 p.m. to Kimberly Nicole Air Force Maj. Robert Melsby of the 962nd 8 ounces at 11:21 a.m. to Kimberly Nicole and Pvt. Raymond C. Smith II of the 1st Low and Army Capt. Ross Franklin Low of Airborne Air Control Squadron. Carter-Joseph and Pvt. Andy Adler-Verly Squadron (Airborne), 40th Cavalry Regi- the 1st Squadron (Airborne), 40th Cavalry Joseph Jr. of the 425th Brigade Special ment. Regiment. July 3 Troops Battalion (Airborne). A daughter, Annabelle J. Aleman, was A daughter, Addyson Rae Walsh, was A son, Thomas Henry McManus, was born 18.75 inches long and weighing 5 A daughter, Sophia Hope St. Romain, born 22 inches long and weighing 8 pounds, born 20 inches long and weighing 7 pounds, pounds, 13 ounces at 5:08 p.m., and a daugh- was born 21 inches long and weighing 8 6 ounces at 4:50 a.m. to Julie Renee Walsh 5 ounces at 4:52 a.m. to Grace Lorraine ter, Audrianna J. Aleman, was born 18.5 pounds, 13 ounces at 4:02 p.m. to Dreama and Army Maj. Barry Lee Walsh Jr. of the McManus and Air Force 1st Lt. Thomas inches long and weighing 5 pounds, 9 ounces Joy St. Romain and Air Force Staff Sgt. 404th Army Field Support Battalion. Asher McManus of the 381st Intelligence at 5:09 p.m., to Hazel Ganixia Aleman and Scott Edward St. Romain of the 3rd Aircraft Squadron. Army Staff Sgt. Christian Jose Aleman of Maintenance Squadron. A son, Ezekiel Zatarain, was born 20 the 2nd Battalion, 377th Parachute Field inches long and weighing 8 pounds, 4 ounces July 1 Artillery Regiment. July 7 at 7:52 a.m. to Natalie R. Zatarain and Spc. A daughter, Robin Olivia Barker, was A son, Cayden Jude Allen, was born Jaime W. Zatarain of the 84th Engineer Sup- born 19.5 inches long and weighing 6 A daughter, Annalee Nan Henze, was 20 inches long and weighing 6 pounds, 5 port Company. pounds, 14 ounces at 3:40 p.m. to Lauren born 21.5 inches long and weighing 8 ounces at 5:02 a.m. to Lauren K. Allen and Melissa Barker and Army Maj. James Robert pounds, 4 ounces at 11:09 a.m. to Megan Sgt. Cornelius R. Allen of the 3rd Battalion July 10 Barker of the 3rd Battalion (Airborne), 509th Day Henze and Spc. Daniel Jay Henze of the (Airborne), 509th Infantry Regiment. A daughter, Karly Leys Peña, was born Infantry Regiment. 725th Brigade Support Battalion (Airborne). 20 inches long and weighing 7 pounds, 12 July 8 ounces at 9:44 a.m. to Francis Leys Clase A son, Gideon Mitchell Kreuze, was born A daughter, Evelyn Mae Russo, was born A son, William Dean Colley, was born and Pfc. Freysy Peña, of the 725th Brigade 20.5 inches long and weighing 8 pounds, 6 21 inches long and weighing 7 pounds, 13 weighing 4 pounds, 15 ounces at 11:27 a.m. Support Battalion (Airborne). ounces at 3:02 p.m. to Tara Kreuze and Army ounces at 5:09 a.m. to Stacie Lynn Russo to Marianne Elizabeth Colley and Air Force Maj. Mitch Kreuze of the U.S. Army Alaska and Senior Airman Danny Rocco Russo of Staff Sgt. Jacob C. Colley of the 732nd July 12 Dental Activity. the 673d Civil Engineer Squadron. Aircraft Maintenance Squadron. A daughter, Journey Alexandria Marie Carter, was born 20 inches long and weigh- July 2 July 4 A daughter, Reign Josephine ing 6 pounds, 4 ounces at 1:31 p.m. to Army A daughter, Kylie Joy Bailey, was born A daughter, Ariana Dawn Davis, was Rios,was born 21 inches long and weig- Capt. Randalle Marie-Cheran Carter of the 20 inches long and weighing 6 pounds, 14 born 20.5 inches long and weighing 8 pounds hing 8 pounds, 7 ounces at 11:03 a.m. to 673d Contracting Squadron and Joel Alex- ounces at 1:21 p.m. to Tracy E. Bailey and at 9:31 p.m. to Suzanne Gail Davis and Spc. Capprie Rios and Pfc. Roberto Rios Jr. of ander Carter. Airman 1st Class Sean J. Bailey of the 673d Robert Chad Davis of the 2nd Battalion, the 6th Engineer Battalion (Combat) (Air- Logistics Readiness Squadron. 377th Parachute Field Artillery Regiment. borne). A son, Bentley Malcolm Jefferson, was born 20.5 inches long and weigh- A son, Matthew Seeley Boyce, was born July 5 July 9 ing 8 pounds, 15 ounces at 2:10 a.m. to 21.75 inches long and weighing 8 pounds, A son, Landon Charles Fox, was born A daughter, Paislee Sova Moses, Spc. Brandi Nicole Jefferson of the 240th 11 ounces at 10:57 a.m. to Melissa Dawn 20 inches long and weighing 6 pounds, 11 was born 20 inches long and weighing Engineer Detachment, 6th Engineer Bat- Boyce and Spc. Nickolas Logan Boyce ounces at 7:32 a.m. to Kimberly Fox and 7 pounds, 11 ounces at 1:48 p.m. to Erica talion, and Spc. Jarell William Jefferson of of the 3rd Battalion (Airborne), 509th In- Pfc. Jonathan Fox of the 3rd Battalion (Air- Paige Moses and Spc. Hayden Frederick the 84th Engineer Support Company, 6th fantry Regiment. borne), 509th Infantry Regiment. Moses of the 2nd Engineer Brigade. Engineer Battalion (Combat) (Airborne). Play Ball! y Softball gear waits in a dugout at an intramural game Tuesday. (U.S. Air Force photo/Staff Sgt. Kurt Mintz)

ABOVE: Dana Pulch, a native of Mesopotamia, Ohio, and a weapons load crew team chief with the 3rd Aircraft Maintenance Squadron, fields a grounder in left field during a intramural softball game against the 3rd Maintenance Group at the Buckner Physical Fitness Center softball fields on Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson Tuesday. The 3rd AMXS defeated the 3rd MXG team 18 to 12 in six in- nings. (U.S. Air Force photo/Senior Airman Ross Whitley) BELOW: Richard Leite, shortstop for the 3rd Maintenance Group, tags out an opponent. (U.S. Air Force photo/Staff Sgt. Kurt Mintz)

Anthony Jobe, a maintenance scheduler with the 3rd Maintenance Group team, races for a base against Aaron Herbert, a 90th Aircraft Maintenance Unit crew chief, in an intramural softball game at the Buckner Physical Fitness Center softball field at Joint Base Elmendorf- Richardson, Tuesday. The 3rd Aircraft Maintenance Squadron trounced the 3rd Maintenance Group with a final score of 8 to 12. (U.S. Air Force photo/Staff Sgt. Allan Eason)

Members of the 3rd Aircraft Main- tenance Squadron softball team celebrate a win over the 3rd Main- tenance Group after an intramural game Tuesday. The AMXS won in six innings with a score of 18 to 12. Intramural softball games con- tinue around JBER throughout the rest of the summer, offering Aaron Herbert, a 90th Aircraft Maintenance Unit crew chief, swings for the fences in an intramural a morale-boosting fitness activity softball game at the Buckner Physical Fitness Center softball field at Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson, and a reason to get outdoors. (U.S. Tuesday. The 3rd Aircraft Maintenance Squadron trounced the 3rd Maintenance Group with a final Air Force photo/Senior Airman Ross score of 8 to 12. (U.S. Air Force photo/Senior Airman Ross Whitley) Whitley)