Commander’s Corner ‘Skibird’ back in production By Col. John Russo communicating anticipated trends, events 109th AW Vice Commander and activities for the next six months. Printed versions will be made available ou asked for it, and we heard you… throughout the Wing to all unit members the Skibird is back! and will be mailed out to our alumni. Y June 2014 marks the relaunch of Additionally, in an effort to address the the 109th Airlift Wing’s beloved magazine. reality of increasing fiscal constraints, The Skibird has historically been a monthly electronic versions will be available for publication. But with increased mission viewing at the Wing’s official website driven requirements, and subsequent time www.109aw.ang.af.mil and shared on the constraints on our Airmen, it became “109th Airlift Wing” Facebook page. increasingly challenging to carve out time With that said, I would like to take a in everyone’s schedule to continue it as moment to say “Thank You” for all the a monthly publication. As a result, the hard work and long hours everyone put into decision was made to make the Skibird preparing for, and completing, the recent a quarterly publication. Then, as fiscal inspection. The 109th Airlift Wing was constraints hit the Wing, the decision was the first stand-alone Air National Guard made to stop publication all together. unit to be inspected under the new Air File Photo But then something began to happen… Mobility Command inspection format. And newly emerging opportunities to support unit members and alumni provided feedback as expected, the execution of our primary NORTHCOM and EUCOM. The value that the Skibird was missed; consistent mission was graded “Highly Effective.” our unit brings to the National Science feedback. They said they missed the articles, With this new inspection process in place, they missed the photos, and they missed I am confident that the Wing will continue Foundation, and our nation as a whole, event and activity reminders. Some people to remain consistent in our ongoing self- cannot be overstated. shared that they saved every issue they had evaluations and remain Air Force compliant We hope you enjoy this issue of the Skibird. ever received because it was a timeline and while meeting our day-to-day mission This is your magazine, and your feedback as historical reference for the Wing. And this demands. to what you want included in it is welcomed. feedback continued, unabated… The Operation Deep Freeze mission Please forward proposed submissions, articles So, in an effort to bring the Skibird back, is inherently demanding. However, these and photographs to the Public Affairs office at while also taking into account the challenges challenges have afforded the Wing the [email protected]. Alumni that led it originally being discontinued, the opportunity to develop very unique who are currently not on the mailing list magazine will now be published biannually. capabilities, enjoy worldwide recognition, can forward their address to the above email A June/December publication schedule will and draw attention to the need for the U.S. address as well. also allow it to be themed as a “Look Back– military to continue funding the LC-130s. Thank you for your service to this unit, Look Forward” at what’s happening with the Additionally, as interest in the exploration past and present, and I look forward to Wing, our Airmen and our families. Each of Arctic natural resources increases, these hearing from you. Stop in, send an email, issue will balance providing updates and capabilities have resulted in the Wing or participate in one of our many scheduled highlights from the past six months while being well positioned to take advantage of events. Save the Date: family day Sunday, sept. 14, 2014

2 The Skibird 109th Airlift Wing The Skibird Spring/Summer 2014 Volume 50, No. 1

Commander Inside Col. Shawn Clouthier Vice Commander Col. John Russo Joint Effort Page 5

The Skibird Inspection Page 8 Spring/Summer 2014 Volume 50, No. 1 Mission Talk Page 10 Public Affairs Staff Maj. Anthony Bucci Chief of Public Affairs Contingency Operations Page 12 Master Sgt. William Gizara Public Affairs Manager Master Sgt. Christine Wood Recognition Page 16 Broadcast Journalist Tech. Sgt. Jason Cooper Broadcast Journalist Airmen of the Year Page 18 Tech. Sgt. Catharine Schmidt Editor, The Skibird Staff Sgt. Benjamin German Wellness Page 19 Photojournalist

The Skibird 1 ANG Road, Scotia, NY 12302-9752; Leadership Page 20 PHONE: (518) 344-2423/2396 DSN: 344-2423/2396, FAX:344-2623 www.109aw.ang.af.mil Training Page 22 EMAIL: [email protected]

This funded Air Force publication is an authorized Sports Page 24 publication for members of the U.S. Military services. Contents of The Skibird are not necessarily the official view of, or endorsed by, the U.S. Government, the Department of Defense or the Department of the In the Community Page 26 Air Force. The editorial content is edited, prepared, and provided by the Public Affairs Office of the 109th Airlift Wing. All photographs are Air Force photographs unless Around the Wing Page 28 otherwise indicated. DEADLINE NOTICE: All items for The Skibird must be Page 29 received by May and November UTAs. Address changes Alumni News for alumni members, as well as addresses for new alumni members, should be directed to: 109AW/PA, 1 Air National Guard Road, Scotia, New York 12302-9752; Spotlight Page 30 by email to [email protected]; or by calling (518) 344-2423.

On the cover: An LC-130 Skibird flies over Ice Camp One near Resolute Bay during Operation Nunalivut 2014 on April 15, 2014.See full story on Page 6 (Photo by Canadian Army Capt. Graham Macmillan/Joint Task Force (North), Yellowknife N.W.T.) Command Chief Notes Wing keeps busy with many ‘firsts’

By Chief Master Sgt. Amy Giaquinto the Unit and Leading People. We were 109th AW Command Chief graded “Effective” overall and had a long list of exceptional performers. We have some am very excited that we are bringing work to do and some improvements to make, back the Skibird magazine, not only but we will get there. Great job everyone! I for our members, but for our alumni This year for the first time in history, and families! Past and present – everyone the 109th Airlift Wing was invited to should see the great things the members participate in Canada’s annual Operation of this Wing do every day! Thank you to Nunalivut Exercise. The 109th Airlift everyone for the hard work put into this Wing team operated out of Resolute Bay publication. A special shout out to the entire and Thule Air Base, Greenland, during the Public Affairs team for making it happen! weeklong exercise. The maintenance team There were a lot of “firsts” this year. built a skiway out of sea ice in the vicinity The Chief’s Council sponsored the first of Resolute Bay to support LC-130 flight Leadership Development Course. This operations. three-day course for technical sergeants We welcomed back a team from the through senior master sergeants and second Small Air Terminal who deployed to Bagram lieutenants through captains covers topics Air Base, Afghanistan. After some brief such as Profession of Arms, managing your downtime, those same folks will gear up for File Photo career, force management, team building, our Arctic mission. We sent firefighters to AMN – newly promoted Staff Sgt. Kylief and many more. Between January and May the desert and aeromed folks to various time Tucker (MXS) 2014 almost 90 students have gone through zones all in support of Operation Enduring First Sergeant – Master Sgt. Amanda the course. Thank you to all the members Freedom. Blodgett (LRS) involved in making this a reality! I would like to congratulate the Airman The 109th was the first Air National of the Year recipients: Thank you for representing the 109th Guard unit to go through the new Air Force SNCO – newly promoted Senior Master Sgt. Airlift Wing so well! I wish you and your Inspection System. Over 70 inspectors Patrick Fitzgerald (LRS) families the best. I look forward to seeing came to the base to grade us on Managing NCO – newly promoted Tech. Sgt. Robert everyone during the 109th Family Day on Resources, Executing the Mission, Improving Harrington (CF) Sunday, Sept. 14.

Chief’s Night at the All Ranks Club Saturday, June 7

The 109th Chiefs Council invites you to join them at the All Ranks Club for pizza and wings.

The All Ranks Club will be hosting an open house for non-members that evening. (Free admittance)

4 The Skibird Joint Effort NYANG medics come together for HRF exercise By Tech. Sgt. Catharine Schmidt The Airmen comprised the medical During the week, the teams had to endure 109th AW Public Affairs element of the HRF, and their primary cold, rain and high winds. Due to the inclement mission was medical triage in the wake of weather, some of their training had to be ORISKANY, N.Y. – Medics with the a disaster. Led by the 105th Airlift Wing, conducted at an alternate location other than 109th Airlift Wing joined Airmen from out of Newburgh, N.Y., the medical element the tents they had planned on. The Airmen four other New York Air National wings is also made up of medics from the 109th agreed that the flexibility they needed mirrored to participate in the Homeland Response Airlift Wing; the 106th Rescue Wing out of what may happen in the real world, and only Force (HRF) exercise at the New York State Westhampton Beach, N.Y.; the 174th Attack made their training more realistic. Preparedness Training Center in Oriskany, Wing out of Syracuse, N.Y.; and the 107th “We make do with what we have,” said Rohatsch, who is the 105th Medical Group N.Y., April 29 to May 2. Airlift Wing out of Niagara Falls, N.Y. commander. The medical Airmen were among 600 “Our team includes physicians, nurses and The medical area was set up with an National Guard HRF troops from New York, (medical technicians),” said Lt. Col. Linda immediate care tent as well as a minimal care New Jersey and Puerto Rico in the exercise, Rohatsch, the medical element commander. tent. Medics in the noncontaminated zone, or designed to test their ability to respond to “When the patients get to us, they’ve already “cold zone,” triaged the patients and determined disasters. The training evaluated the HRF’s been decontaminated, and our job is to triage which tent they went to once they arrived. chemical, biological, radiological or nuclear and stabilize them so we can return them to “We’re set up to do anything that can be done response capability requiring the evacuation, duty or send them out to a local hospital for in an emergency room,” Rohatsch said. decontamination and medical triage of casualties. definitive care.” Maj. Sharon Westbrook, 109th Medical Group, said this was her first experience with a HRF exercise. “I am assigned to the minimal tent as a nurse,” she said. “We get them bandaged up or if they have any eye irritations from the chemicals they were exposed to, we take them to the eye wash. We try and get them as stable as we can so we can get them out the door.” Lt. Col. Michael Fishkin, 106th Medical Group, was also assigned to the minimal area. He said all of the units coming together made it a great training environment. “There are 10 of us here from the 106th,” he said. “It’s always a pleasure to work with the other units. Everyone has their own unique talents that they bring with them.” “We always work well together,” said Senior Master Sgt. Jacqueline Sweet-McNeill of the 109th Medical Group. She was one of two medics working the cold zone triage. “We’re definitely ready for our validation on Friday.”

Photo by Tech. Sgt. Catharine Schmidt The medics and the rest of the Soldiers and Staff Sgt. Lorenzo Rodriguez leads a simulated patient to get medical help after triaging him in the Airmen in the HRF put their training to the test “hot zone” during the FEMA II Homeland Response Force validation exercise at the New York State and successfully completed their validation Preparedness Training Center in Oriskany, N.Y., on May 1, 2014. Lorenzo is assigned to the 109th portion on May 3, with the medical element Medical Group at Stratton Air National Guard Base and was one of almost 50 New York Air National Guard medics who participated in the exercise. receiving an outstanding score.

Spring/Summer 2014 5 Joint Effort Joint Effort people were involved in the Operations Group who was exercise, including the Canadian the lead 109th officer on the 109th participates Army, the Royal Canadian exercise. “We’re trying to get out Navy Fleet Diving Unit and the ahead of it and demonstrate LC- Royal Canadian Air Forces 440 130 capabilities, so we’re taking in Canadian Forces (Transport) Squadron. advantage of this exercise. We The 109th Airlift Wing team, want to develop joint capabilities which consisted of maintainers and interoperability with the Arctic exercise and aircrew, operated out of Canadian Arctic Forces because By Tech. Sgt. Catharine Schmidt Resolute Bay and Thule Air they have a need to maintain an 109th AW Public Affairs Base, Greenland, during the airlift reach throughout the high weeklong exercise. Shortly Arctic.” after arriving, maintainers and The Canadians have ski- early 40 Airmen and two Nunalivut Exercise. operations Airmen established a equipped CC-138 Twin-Otter LC-130 ski-equipped Canada’s Joint Task Force- “skiway” camp in the vicinity of aircraft which don’t have the aircraft from the 109th N North has been conducting Resolute Bay to support LC-130 lift capacity or range the 109th Airlift Wing demonstrated their this exercise in and around the flight operations. LC-130s have. The 109th helped vast capabilities on the Arctic area of Resolute Bay, Nunavut, “We see on the horizon the to bring fuel and supplies to ice as they joined Canadian Canada, since 2007. This was the need for aircraft capabilities the forward-deployed locations ForcesOperation on April 11 to participate first year the 109th participated. Nunalivutto meet Arctic taskings,” said during the exercise. Normally in Canada’s annual Operation This year more than 250 Lt. Col. Clifford Souza, 109th Canadian aircraft would do this,

Photo by Canadian Army Master Cpl. Chelsey Hutson/Canadian Forces Joint Imagery Center, Ottawa, ON The 109th Airlift wing ski-equipped LC-130 aircraft lands at the Resolute Bay Airport, Nunavut, on April 12, 2014, as part of Operation Nunalivut 2014.

but the LC-130 is able to do in one trip what they would need to do Souza said. This exercise gave the 109th AW the opportunity to in 10, Souza said. prove that they can still support those missions if needed. “This shows interoperability and integration between the U.S. and Canada to jointly develop capabilities for the future to operate in the Arctic,” Souza said. “The Canadians are very interested in what we can provide,” he said. “We’re also taking advantage of the opportunity to demonstrate those capabilities to set up an expeditionary skiway on the sea ice. This has significance for search and rescue, because now we have the ability to go somewhere where there’s no runway, set up a ski landing site on sea ice which can provide a forward staging area for personnel, supplies and fuel, to increase the operating radius of other aircraft.” “Conducting joint and combined operations with our allies is a valuable learning experience for both sides, but in this case, the capabilities of our respective aircraft complement one another seamlessly,” says Royal Canadian Air Force Maj. Bert Bolderheij, Air Task Force commander for Operation Nunalivut. Photo by Master Sgt. William Gizara Photo by Canadian Army Capt. Graham Macmillan/Joint Task Force (North), Yellowknife N.W.T. Lt. Clifford Souza talks to media at Stratton Air National Guard Base on While the 109th AW’s primary mission is to support the National April 10, 2014, about the upcoming Canadian exercise the 109th Airlift A CF-138 Twin Otter from 440 Squadron is being passed by an LC-130 ski-equipped aircraft April 15, 2014, during Operation Nunalivut 2014. The 109th Science Foundation in Antarctica and Greenland, in the past “the Wing participated in for the first time. Souza was the lead 109th AW officer Airlift Wing used the LC-130 to position fuel and supplies for the operation. unit existed to support military customers from the high arctic,” for the exercise.

6 The Skibird Spring/Summer 2014 7 Inspection Inspection

OUTSTANDING UEI PERFORMERS

Setting precedence IG Coin Recipients Master Sgt. Patrick Reimann, 109th CF Senior Airman Matthew Almy, 109th CF Senior Master Sgt. Greg Mihalko, Tech. Sgt. Scott Anderson, 109th CF Airman 1st Class Collin Eustis, 109th CF 109th CF Tech. Sgt. Robert Harrington, 109th CF Airman 1st Class Joshua Speziale, Staff Sgt. Johnny Cope, 109th CF 109th STUF Individual Recognition Senior Airman Daniel Street, 139th Airman 1st Class Nicholas Tousignant, 1st Lt. Angela Vasilakos, 109th AW AES 109th STUF Chief Master Sgt. Orlando Rodriguez, 109th AW Food Service Team – 109th FSS Inspector General Team Tech. Sgt. Kyle DeFeo, 109th SFS Tech. Sgt. Beth Davis Lt. Col. Matthew LeClair, 139th AS Tech. Sgt. Francis Johnson, 109th OSS Tech. Sgt. Keith Eriole Lt. Col. Alan Ross, 109th AW Tech. Sgt. Jeremy Muller, 109th LRS Tech. Sgt. Dean Lansley Maj. Glen Hisert, 109th AW Tech. Sgt. Brian Rulison, 109th AMXS Senior Airman Joseph Campbell Maj. Ernest Lancto, 109th MXG Staff Sgt. Catlin Boyle, 109th SFS Senior Airman Gary Doyle Chief Master Sgt. William Nolin, 139th Senior Airman Joshua Henderson AS Team Recognition Senior Airman Nick Hochmuth Chief Master Sgt. Mark Schaible, 109th Senior Airman Robert Johnson LRS Aircrew Intelligence Training Team – Senior Airman Jonathan Saunders Senior Master Sgt. Greg Mihalko, 109th OSS Senior Airman Amy Scott 109th CF Staff Sgt. Joshua Hague Airman 1st Class Perry Rayner Senior Airman Brittany Rankin, 109th Senior Airman Travis Inman Airman Kahdeem Defreitas MXG

Communications Flight Operation Inspector General Communications Aeromedical Evacuation Team Raven Dew Team Support Team Entire 139th AES Senior Master Sgt. Jeffrey Lapp Master Sgt. Christopher Moore, 109th CF

Photo by Staff Sgt. Benjamin German (retired), 109th CF Tech. Sgt. Jodi Habbinger, 109th CF Col. Shawn Clouthier recognizes the newly formed Inspector General office April 6, 2014, following the 109th Airlift Wing’s Unit Effectiveness Inspection. Senior Master Sgt. Greg Mihalko, Tech. Sgt. Robert Harrington, 109th CF The 109th IG team was formed in September 2013 as part of the Air Force’s new inspection process. 109th CF Tech. Sgt. Henry Smith, 109th CF 109th first ANG stand-alone unit to complete UEI By Tech. Sgt. Catharine Schmidt with the IG surveys conducted prior to the patriotism. I also want to thank you for have helped secure the future of this new Air Force inspection undetected noncompliance. have also conducted site visits visit. your volunteer service in a mission done 109th AW Public Affairs the Wing through this inspection program as a Wing IG office,” MICT [Management Internal to other units to offer their “They based a lot of how they graded nowhere else, and even if they did, could system.” Nolin said. Control Toolset] is one source expertise. he 109th Airlift Wing became the first the four major graded areas [Managing not execute it better. With that level of “Typically a capstone visit Under the new system, the of that. We still want people to LeClair said the Wing’s stand-alone Air National Guard unit Resources, Improving the Unit, Leading responsibility no bonus can adequately is a culmination of 48 to 60 goal is to have a continuous maintain their MICT, even if it’s receptive attitude toward the to complete their Unit Effectiveness T People and Executing the Mission] from compensate you for the contribution you months of continuous snapshots inspection process, instead of just five minutes a day.” new system continues to make Inspection capstone visit here March 14 information provided to them by the make, and no deficiency can deter us from of how the wing’s commander’s the typical inspections in the Since the 109th AW is the the program successful. under the new Air Force inspection system. Airmen,” said Chief Master Sgt. William looking at the results to see what we can inspection program is past which required a lot of first Air National Guard unit to “People have embraced the About 75 inspectors from Air Mobility Nolin, 109th AW Inspections superintendent. do better for our Airmen and our nation’s progressing,” said Nolin. preparation time. undergo this inspection, in many new program,” LeClair said. Command’s Inspector General Team at While the unit has yet to receive the assigned mission.” Because the program is so “The capstone is unlike in ways it’s become the model “Colonel Clouthier articulated Scott Air Force Base, Ill., consisting of formal report, Lt. Col. Matthew LeClair, LeClair said Airmen throughout the Wing new and didn’t go into effect years past where after it’s over for other units to follow. More his vision for this, and his functional experts from various career- 109th AW IG, said the feedback he has impressed the IG team with the jobs they do until August of 2013, the Wing we cycle down,” Nolin said. than 100 Airmen from various leadership team has supported field backgrounds, were here March 6–14 received has been positive. He recently each and every day. only had a few months to prepare “We want to keep pushing. We bases – active duty, Reserve and him by allocating the right to inspect and validate the effectiveness of received an email from Col. Andrew Molnar, “Our performance and how well we did is for this visit. need to maintain the constant Guard – have come to the base to amount of resources that should programs and self-assessment processes AMC’s IG Team Chief for the visit, stating: the direct result of individual Airmen being “This was not only focus on ensuring compliance see the IG office and get a better ensure us success in the future.” within the Wing. “A Gallup survey recently showed professionals, doing their job right every verification and validation of with all our directives and understanding of how the new Most of the visit was comprised of IG- that 80 percent of Americans believe that day,” he said. “Those Airmen who take pride how we were doing as a Wing, programs, and we as an IG are system works. to-Airmen session interviews in conjunction serving in the U.S. military shows real in their role in the Wing and in the mission but how we were approaching always looking out for potential Members of the IG team

8 The Skibird Spring/Summer 2014 9 Mission Talk Mission Talk Schumer visits 109th AW 109th AW Public Affairs Staff

en. Charles Schumer was here Jan. 3 to tour the base and learn more about the S109th Airlift Wing’s unique mission with the National Science Foundation. Schumer’s support for the unit’s mission was evident as he vowed to fight to maintain current levels of funding the wing receives through National Science Foundation appropriations. Budget debates in the Senate are certain in the coming months, and Schumer stated that the base is both a local economic resource and national scientific resource worth maintaining. Schumer’s visit was an important step

in gaining visibility of the wing’s unique Photo by Master Sgt. William Gizara mission with political leaders throughout New York. Chuck Steiner, President of Sen. Charles Schumer tours the cockpit of a 109th Airlift Wing LC-130 Skibird with Col. Shawn Clouthier, 109th AW commander, at Stratton Air National Guard Base on Jan. 3, 2014. Schumer visited the base the Chamber of Schenectady County and to show support of the unit’s unique mission and in preparation for the upcoming appropriations debate Chairman of the Unified Military Affairs in the Senate. 109th AW takes on Council, worked with Schumer’s office to arrange the meeting. “We are pleased to have Senator legislators is imperative because of the fiscal “Senator Schumer’s timely visit and tour Schumer visit our unit today and learn uncertainty.” of the Stratton Air National Guard Base has more about our mission with the National Joining Schumer for the tour were Chuck demonstrated his strong interest and ongoing Science Foundation,” said Col. Shawn Steiner, Schenectady County Chamber of additional ODF mission support of the mission of the 109th Airlift Clouthier, 109th AW commander. “We have Commerce president, Maj. Gen. Patrick a unique mission here, and his support, Murphy, New York Adjutant General, and Photo by Master Sgt. Kevin Phillips Wing, especially as the Senate determines appropriations for the National Science along with other community leaders, is Brig. Gen. Anthony German, Chief of Staff An LC-130 Skibird from the 109th Airlift Wing is jacked up on the frozen ice shelf of Pegasus Field, Antarctica, on Jan. 16, 2014, after aircrew discovered greatly appreciated. While our mission and of the New York Air National Guard. a landing gear issue. The maintenance crews of the 109th Airlift Wing do not have hangars to work out of while deployed to Antarctica for Operation Deep Foundation and the Department of Defense,” Freeze and must work in the elements and handle unique challenges nearly every day. said Steiner. unit remain strong, the support from our 109th AW Public Affairs Staff missions to Greenland during Antarctica since the season moved ahead with as much extra mission requirements, irmen here capped 62nd Airlift Wing at McChord square miles with volcanic dust The LC-130 has a maximum the Northern Hemisphere’s began in October, with an planned research as possible. Clouthier said. five months of support Air Force Base, Washington, and dirt from nearby terrain. passenger load of 35-40 people summer months. average of 150 on duty at any The problems with the “Without the efforts of our Aof U.S. Antarctic to move researchers out of When combined with the warm for intercontinental flights “The unique capabilities of one time. runway also meant the C-17s aircrews and ground crews the research efforts by flying 1,100 Antarctica as summer there summer sun and mild January between McMurdo Station and our aircraft have made it possible The partial federal have not been flying into and out 2013-2014 research season researchers and support staff, comes to an end. These aircraft temperatures, this dirty snow Christchurch, New Zealand, for scientists to do their work government shutdown in of the Antarctic since November would not have been as and 43 tons of cargo, from can carry more than 120 people and ice melted rapidly, forming and for this reason it took more and get the most of the Antarctic October 2013 forced the U.S. 2013. This resulted in the 109th successful,” he said. McMurdo Station, Antarctica, on each flight. melt pools 2 feet deep in areas. missions to redeploy research summer research season, “ said Antarctic Program to consider AW’s Airmen flying more This season, the 109th AW to New Zealand aboard seven This year, however, the snow Although temperatures were and support personnel to New Col. Shawn Clouthier, 109th canceling or deferring many missions than first planned, completed about 275 missions. of its 10 ski-equipped LC-130 and ice runway the C-17s and cooling, the runway’s condition Zealand as they started their AW commander. “I am proud of research projects, primarily in Clouthier said. The new missions represent a made it impossible for any cargo planes. other non ski-equipped aircraft, journeys home. our Airmen who have deployed and around McMurdo Station, The wing normally deploys 57-percent increase in workload wheeled aircraft, including the In the past, the U.S. Antarctic use to land on is too soft to This extended the Airmen’s this season and the dedication and running the three U.S. six LC-130s and six crews to for the 109th. To accomplish C-17, to land or take off on it. this, the wing scheduled up to Program, which is managed by support their weight. deployment by a few weeks. and hard work they have and Antarctic research stations in a fly missions. This year, the Only the LC-130s flown by the continue to put into this season.” caretaker mode. wing deployed seven aircraft seven missions each day. the National Science Foundation, Last year, strong winds 109th AW, which land on skis The wing’s Airmen normally The wing has deployed 479 When the budget problems and added additional crews has used C-17 Globemaster blanketed the airfield and as well as wheels, could use the return in mid-February to begin Air National Guardsmen to were resolved, the program and maintainers to handle the III aircraft assigned to the the area around it for several runway to move people and cargo. preparing to fly science support

10 The Skibird Spring/Summer 2014 11 Contingency Operations Contingency Operations planes to move personnel, they bundled quickly when called for Though all of the team with a familiar group of Airmen. also relied on smaller Short in an emergency, for a serious members were with the Air “I’m proud of what we do here, Takeoff and Landing aircraft cause, those guys really need National Guard, that never getting people to where they that are able to fly passengers that stuff quick, and we get it seemed to matter to them or their need to be. I couldn’t do it more efficiently on shorter to them,” said Senior Airman leadership. without the people around me”, routes while the larger C-17 and Brittany Foster, who worked the “We never differentiated he said. Antarctica C-130 aircraft could concentrate dispatch desk. between Active, Guard, and At the other end of the on routes with heavier cargo Another important cargo, Reserve ... all were members spectrum was Houck, who spent to loads. that required special handling, of the 455th EAPS ‘Port Dawg’ time in the Navy, the Army and Senior Airman Robert was explosives and ammunition. family,” said Lt. Col. Ryan the Air Force and will be retiring Buehler, here on his first Tech. Sgt. Thomas Houck was Norman, commander of the soon. He said that this was his deployment, said he enjoyed responsible for ensuring proper 455th EAPS. “All the members last deployment. “I know this working the STOLS mission. packaging and labeling of were vital to the fight and pushed will be my last deployment. I “I’ll always remember the hazardous goods. the mission forward every day. wanted to get the most out of it, sense of family; definitely “I know that I’m supporting They understood the importance and I know I did,” he said. everyone is close. We were in the war effort by getting of the mission and made it Houck surprised everybody remote locations, but bonds ammo to the guys that need it happen. I could not be more by actually getting married, by developed, we grew together, downrange,” said Houck. proud of their accomplishments, proxy, while deployed. He was and had each other’s backs every Pierce added that while other and I hate to see them leave. engaged before he left New day,” said Buehler. cargo was important, the most Their talents will be missed. I York, planning to marry upon Besides handling passengers, meaningful events for him were hope our paths cross again one his return. When his fiancee’s the team also moved thousands Dignified Transfers of fallen day down the road.” sister passed away unexpectedly of tons of cargo. The most warriors on their journey home. For some, this was their first while he was here, he thought memorable cargo loads were “Human Remains transfers deployment. For others, their the ones called for during were definitely the most last. about the uncertainty of life and emergencies, and airdropped as precious cargo we handled, Airman 1st Class Stephen decided to move the marriage to bundles. they needed and deserved extra Marra was on his first the front of his priority list. “Everything has to be special attention,” said Pierce. deployment and happy to be Everybody agreed that their time here was rewarding, even if separated from friends and AfghanistanPhoto by Senior Master Sgt. Gary J. Rihn family at home. Airmen from the New York Air National Guard’s 109th Airlift Wing pose for a team photo in front of a C-130J Super Hercules on Feb. 28, 2014, at Bagram “It’s important to remember Airfield, Afghanistan. The team was deployed from their home base in Scotia, N.Y. the families. When one member serves, the entire family gives,” 109th SAT Airmen take mission overseas said Tech. Sgt. Amie Moore, who worked at the passenger By Senior Master Sgt. Gary J. Rihn equipped LC-130 aerial port yard, at a civilian eyes off the road, you’re going in terminal. 455th AEW Public Affairs Hercules aircraft. contract airlift provider, and the ditch,” said Fitzgerald. “When you go home, They fly missions overseeing hazardous materials “The Greenland season back people will say thanks for your BAGRAM AIRFIELD, to Antarctica during as part of Special Handling. home gets busy, but nothing sacrifice. Though maybe not Afghanistan – Afghanistan is a the New York winters, which Unlike at their home station, the like this here,” added Tech. Sgt. outside the wire any more, world away from Antarctica. are summers in the Southern team here was busy around the Matthew Pierce. you did sacrifice, and you But for a team of Airmen Hemisphere, and then shift clock supporting the Operation The passenger terminal was accomplished something; all of from the 109th Airlift Wing at missions to support Greenland Enduring Freedom mission. responsible for processing and those missions, those thousands Stratton Air National Guard during the northern summers. Master Sgt. Patrick moving hundreds of passengers of people and tons of cargo, you Base in Scotia, N.Y., they are However, a team of Airmen Fitzgerald, passenger terminal every day, traveling to and from made it happen,” concluded both familiar places. recently found themselves superintendent, noted that every corner of the region. Fitzgerald. The group of Airmen from deployed to Bagram Airfield, Bagram is the busiest airfield “We bring troops in, send The team will return to New the New York Air National Afghanistan, working at the in the region, in both cargo and troops home, and get their York in time to take part in Guard usually is responsible for 455th Expeditionary Aerial Port number of passengers handled. replacements here so that they their home station mission of supporting scientists from the Squadron. “Between all of the jobs, can get back to their families,” Photo by Senior Master Sgt. Gary J. Rihn supporting the polar flights. As National Science Foundation At Bagram, they covered we’re covering all aspects here. said Tech. Sgt. Shane Long, line one team member put it, “Sand Airman 1st Class Gerald Mesick uses an all-terrain forklift to move cargo at Bagram Airfield, Afghanistan, on Feb. during their excursions to ice- a wide range of duties at the It’s extremely busy. If you take supervisor at the terminal. 28, 2014. Mesick was deployed from the 109th Airlift Wing, New York Air National Guard, and worked on the ramp to snow, pole to pole, we do it covered regions, using their ski- passenger terminal, in the your hands off the wheel, your Besides using large cargo at Bagram. all.”

12 The Skibird Spring/Summer 2014 13 Contingency Operations Contingency Operations Chiefs leave New York legacy behind at Camp Bastion By Tech. Sgt. Catharine Schmidt Sgt. Robert Ward, Chief of Staff Team Excellence During that time, Camp Bastion 109th AW Public Affairs 107th AW’s SAT Award for their work. was slated to close, resulting in superintendent in “As the title states, it was truly very little cargo coming in, but a he New York Air Niagara Falls, relieved a team effort from all of our folks, lot going out. National Guard made its Mann. and I’m sure the other chiefs feel During both Mann and Ward’s Tmark on Camp Bastion, Wessberg deployed with his the same,” Wessberg said. rotation, the camp came under Afghanistan, for almost a year unit in March 2012. His team “This was my third deployment attack. During Mann’s rotation it and a half with the presence played a major role in training to Afghanistan, while difficult, was one of the largest insurgent Family, of New York Air National International Security Assistance it was probably the easiest attacks in the camp’s history. Guardsmen for three consecutive Force personnel in loading and transition I ever had,” Mann “The next couple of days were rotations – more specifically, unloading cargo aircraft at said. “(Chief Wessberg) had set very solemn, as some of our U.S. three chiefs who each assumed forward operating locations. up an aerial port, in a new facility, Marines had lost their lives,” friends the role of superintendent of They also designed loading and established procedures and Mann said. the camp’s 651st Expeditionary and unloading procedures, which policies which made it easy to The camp came under indirect Logistics Readiness Squadron’s reduced air cargo idle time by take control and keep the mission fire attacks while Ward and his welcome Aerial Port Flight. 45 percent. Higher headquarters running smoothly.” team were there. These were the Chief Master Sgt. Mark inspectors declared the Camp Mann was deployed with first aerial attacks the camp had Mann, 109th Airlift Wing’s Small Bastion air cargo operation run Airmen from the Guard, Reserve endured. On one attack, a rocket home Air Terminal superintendent by the 105th AW members the and active duty from various hit just outside the aerial port here, deployed in August 2012 to best in the area of operations and different states. During their building, Ward said. “Luckily replace Chief Master Sgt. Daniel estimated they saved almost $20 rotation, the team moved more no one was seriously injured Airmen Wessberg, the 105th AW’s SAT million by reducing backlogs than 31,000 tons of cargo and in the attack,” Ward said. “We superintendent in Newburgh. in the cargo handling system. assisted in moving more than had a long night assessing the About 15 Airmen with the Six months later, Chief Master Wessberg’s team received the 34,000 passengers. During an damage, making workarounds 109th Small Air Terminal inspection in November, the and ensuring the building and returned home March 15, aerial port was singled out for personnel were safe.” Within 2014, following a six-month their outstanding achievements. seven hours of the attack, the deployment to Bagram The flight set a new Air Force aerial porters were back to loading Airfield, Afghanistan. Central Command record with cargo and processing passengers. Friends and family filled the entire Air Terminal Over that year and a half, the Albany International Airport In late February 2013, Ward deployed aerial port had become to greet their loved ones. At arrived at Camp Bastion with one of the most dependable Bagram, the Airmen covered his unit, as well as Guard and and efficient aerial port units in a wide range of duties at the active duty Airmen. “This was Afghanistan. And the New York passenger terminal, in the my second deployment, first in Air National Guard played a aerial port yard, at a civilian Afghanistan,” Ward said. “Chief large role in making that happen. contract airlift provider, Mann had everything organized, “It was an honor to have and overseeing hazardous every couple of weeks he sent followed two dynamic New materials as part of Special me information and forms to York chiefs,” Ward said. “They Handling, all in support complete prior to arriving. It was both skillfully paved the way for of Operation Enduring one of the smoothest transitions I operation success in the AOR.” Freedom. (Photos by Tech. Courtesy photo have seen. My men were working “It was an honor to have missions within 24 hours.” served with Chiefs Wessberg Sgt. Catharine Schmidt) Chief Master Sgt. Mark Mann (left) hands over the keys to the 651st Expeditionary Logistics Readiness Squadron’s Aerial Port Flight to Chief During Ward’s rotation, his and Ward and to have left a New Master Sgt. Robert Ward in March 2013. Ward was the third consecutive team successfully moved 22,000 York legacy at Camp Bastion, chief from the New York Air National Guard to take over the deployed aerial tons of cargo and assisted in the knowing we made a difference,” port. Mann is the 109th Airlift Wing’s Small Air Terminal superintendent. movement of 24,000 passengers. Mann said.

14 The Skibird Spring/Summer 2014 15 Recognition Wing comes together to Story by congratulate Tech. Sgt. Catharine Schmidt Photos by Staff Sgt. Benjamin German promotees 109th AW Public Affairs irmen packed the Dining Facility in the audience as each section was there to on April 6 to cheer on their fellow support their co-workers in the most spirited AAirmen who were getting promoted way they could. Force Support Squadron to the ranks of airman first class through banged pots and pans together whenever technical sergeant. one of their Airmen was called for their next This was the second promotion stripe. Security Forces cheered loudly and recognition ceremony the base has held shot Nerf darts at their promotees. Logistics More than 15 Airmen were promoted to E-3 through E-6 during a basewide promotion recognition ceremony on April 6, 2014. 109th Airlift Wing Airmen from all different sections on base cheer on their peers during a promotion recognition ceremony for E-3s through E-6s on April 6, 2014. for the junior ranking Airmen on the base. Readiness Squadron was there with signs, Chief Master Sgt. Amy Giaquinto, 109th noisemakers and confetti. And the Medical Airlift Wing command chief, said in an Group donned surgical masks and gloves earlier article that she hoped these basewide as they cheered and held up signs for their promotion recognition ceremonies would peers. promote wing cohesiveness and boost To make things a little more interesting, morale. a spirit stick, made by Senior Master Sgt. “I want everyone to realize that their Kevin Gifford and his son, Nicholas, was promotions are important,” she said. “I up for grabs for the section that showed the heard someone who was being promoted most spirit. In the first ceremony held in to E-6 say that it was no big deal. ... I think December, the Medical Group was awarded that EVERY promotion is a big deal. It is the spirit stick. This time, Chief Master important and a great way to recognize Sgt. Richard King, New York Air National members in front of their peers.” Guard command chief, was the guest judge “I do feel this type of ceremony will who would make the call – Force Support help with unit cohesiveness and boost Squadron. morale because no matter what squadron “I think this program is good for the Chief Master Sgt. Richard King, New York Air National you come from, the 109th is and will units,” said Senior Master Sgt. Peter Guard command chief, holds the spirit stick as he decides always be one big family,” said Tech. Latniak, 109th Force Support Squadron’s which section showed the most spirit during the promotion recognition ceremony April 6, 2014 Sgt. Anastasios Mantzouris, of the 109th Base Services manager. “It brings Airmen Logistics Readiness Squadron who was together to form ideas enabling them to think but also the leadership within my section,” one of the newly promoted Airmen being outside the box to figure out how they can said newly promoted Senior Airman Xenia recognized. “I have heard many individuals outdo other units to win the ‘spirit stick.’ It Wieland, 109th Medical Group. “This will say they wish there would be more Wing is also helping build camaraderie amongst definitely be a memorable promotion, and functions, and this can be one of those members within their units.” with it being my first, it will help keep me functions. It doesn’t matter if someone in While the spirit stick was maybe the driven to strive for excellence toward my your section/squadron is being promoted or most coveted item in the room, the real future promotions.” not, going and giving up a little of your time recognition went to the newly promoted “Congratulations to all of you, it is well to congratulate an Airman is the right thing Airmen in a ceremony that for most of them, deserved,” King said to the newly promoted to do, and it should be something everyone was their most memorable yet. Airmen. “Promotions in the Air National wants to do.” “It was very motivating to have that Guard aren’t just given anymore, they’re Airmen of the 109th Force Support Squadron celebrate after Chief Master Sgt. Richard King, New York Air National Guard command chief, named them Morale and cohesiveness were apparent kind of support from not only my peers, earned.” the winner of the promotion recognition ceremony spirit stick on April 6, 2014.

16 The Skibird Spring/Summer 2014 17 Airmen of the Year Airmen earn 109th AW honors By Tech. Sgt. Catharine Schmidt 109th AW Public Affairs our 109th Airlift Wing Airmen were Senior NCO of the Year honored during the annual Airman of Senior Master Sgt. the Year Dinner as the Water’s Edge F Patrick Fitzgerald Lighthouse on April 5, hosted by the 109th AW’s First Six Council. 109th Small Air Terminal Senior Master Sgt. Patrick Fitzgerald, Master Sgt. Amanda Blodgett, Tech. Sgt. First Sergeant of the Year Robert Harrington and Senior Airman Master Sgt. Amanda Blodgett Kylief Tucker were named as the Wing’s top performers for 2013. 109th Logistics Readiness “I couldn’t be prouder of each of these Squadron Airmen,” said Col. Shawn Clouthier, 109th AW commander. “All four have proven to NCO of the Year be the Wing’s best and brightest and are the Tech. Sgt. Robert Harrington epitome of leading by example.” “I am quite honored to be the Airman of the 109th Communications Flight Year,” said Tucker, who was named the Wing’s Airman of the Year and is assigned to the 109th Airman of the Year Maintenance Squadron. “To be recognized by Senior Airman Kylief Tucker Photo by Master Sgt. William Gizara so many respected and established members 109th Maintenance Squadron The First Six Council coordinated the annual 109th of the wing was incredible. It was awesome to Airlift Wing Airman of the Year dinner on April 5, hear each of the speeches about the selectees, 2014, at the Water’s Edge Lighthouse in Scotia, and I was honored to stand amongst such N.Y. This the third year the council has hosted incredible NCOs. I know that the Wing the event. expects great things from me, and I will not let them down.” This is the third year the First Six Council has hosted the Airman of the Year Dinner, and council members said they received a lot of positive feedback about the night. “The First Six Council did an amazing job for the dinner,“ said Master Sgt. Amanda Blodgett, 109th Logistics Readiness Squadron first sergeant. “It was a great experience, and I was very honored and humbled to be nominated as First Sergeant of the Year.” “Hosting the dinner is very important to the Council because it is our chance to give back to the base,” said Senior Airman James Comstock of the First Six Council. “We are able to spotlight the achievements of our fellow Airmen.” “The First Six Council once again put on a fantastic dinner to honor our Airmen,” Photo by Master Sgt. William Gizara Clouthier said. “Their hard work was Senior Airman Kylief Tucker, Tech. Sgt. Robert Harrington and Master Sgt. Amanda Blodgett were all instrumental in giving the Airmen of the honored during the 109th Airlift Wing’s annual Airman of the Year Dinner on April 5, 2014. Chief Master Year the recognition they deserve.” Sgt. Mark Mann (right) accepted the award for Senior Master Sgt. Patrick Fitzgerald (not pictured).

18 The Skibird Wellness Addressing the ever-changing needs of our most valuable resources... Our Airmen, Families and our Workforce

Health and Wellness Center Staff bout three years ago, the 109th Health and Wellness Center opened Aits doors to address the idea that prevention and early intervention, education, and support were the keys to maintaining mission readiness. Opening the first known Wellness Center on any National Guard base was unique and trailblazing in a time when Airmen and their families were being asked to juggle more and more responsibilities on the work and home front. Since its introduction to the base, the Health and Wellness Center Team has changed and evolved to address the ever- growing breadth of deployments, job demands, physical requirements and family Courtesy photo by Joanna Henderson needs. Community resources have been Six families attended the 2013 Family Strong Bonds event at Camp Fowler near Speculator, N.Y. utilized to augment the services led by the (pictured) The next Family Strong Bonds event is scheduled for June 13–15, 2014, at 1,000 Acres Wellness Team incorporating vetted and Ranch and Resort near Warrensburg, N.Y. For more information about Strong Bonds, contact Chaplain (Maj.) Jacob Marvel at [email protected]. trusted community partners. Over its three-year development, the The Spiritual Pillar needs of all of our members, each member is Health and Wellness Center has grown to Spiritual fitness means strengthening treated with dignity and respect, addressing encompass Mental Preparedness, Spiritual, a set of beliefs, principles or values that issues with confidentiality and care, all the Social and Physical Health, the four pillars help your sense of well-being and purpose. while, wrapping the member with layers of that anchor the Wellness Center. It includes, but is not limited to, religious support. The Wellness Team also provides The Social Pillar faith, world views, a sense of connectedness, educational classes, briefs, outreach and Social fitness refers to the ability to ethics and morals. Spiritually fit Airmen support, prescriptive to each member, unit engage in healthy social networks that use their beliefs, principles and values to and group’s needs. promote overall well-being and optimal persevere and accomplish their mission. The Our Health and Wellness Center continues performance. The Airman and Family Readiness Manager provides information, Chaplain Corps can aid you in identifying, to be recognized by higher headquarters as a referral, career assistance, retirement nurturing and integrating your beliefs. model. As we continue to evolve and grow, planning, financial classes and addresses The Emotional Pillar we will be assisting other Air National the varied landscape of Airman and Family Psychological fitness refers to the ability to Guard bases in their development of Health total fitness. effectively cope with the unique mental stressors and Wellness Centers in New York and in The Physical Pillar and challenges needed to ensure mission other far-reaching states. Look for your Physical fitness refers to the ability readiness. The Director of Psychological next Health and Wellness Center catalog to physically accomplish all aspects of Health provides consultation, assessment and outlining resources, classes and upcoming the mission while remaining healthy and referral for Airmen and their family members. events for you and your family or stop by uninjured. Focusing on endurance, strength, The multidisciplinary team approach, the Health and Wellness Center, peruse the nutrition and recovery, the Physical Health as adopted through evidence-based theory resource library and familiarize yourself Director provides consultations on nutrition and research, mirrors the collaborative with the Health and Wellness Team. We are and physical fitness related to achieving measures we take to address the Airman’s here to help and assist. Thank you for your optimal health and mission readiness. total fitness. Sensitive to the confidential support.

Spring/Summer 2014 19 Leadership Leadership Leading the way

to a solution.” Course teaches Airmen skills “It was a very good way to teach how you can accomplish a common goal when you work together,” said Master to become better leaders Sgt. Donna Torres, equal employment specialist at Joint By Tech. Sgt. Catharine Schmidt the Leadership Franklin, noncommissioned Forces Headquarters. 109th AW Public Affairs Development Course. officer in charge of formal Along with teamwork, Torres “I was schools with the 109th Force said some of the things she ore than 25 New expecting to gain Support Squadron. “Talking took away from the weekend York Air National some valuable tools that I to other members in the unit were “leadership skills, a Guardsmen got “re- M could take back with me to that work in all different areas better understanding of the blued” over the January Unit my office to utilize in my job,” provided the exposure to how (Enlisted Performance Review) Training Assembly during said Senior Master Sgt. Brian what we each do really impacts process, great information about the 109th Airlift Wing’s first Roberts, human resources the mission.” counseling subordinates, (the Leadership Development specialist with Joint Forces Senior Master Sgt. Jeffrey importance of) communication, Course held by the 109th AW Headquarters in Latham. “I was Trottier, 109th Intelligence programs that were offered by Chief’s Council. hoping it wouldn’t be death by Office, served as an instructor the Wellness Center, dress and The three-day course, PowerPoint, and it turned out for a teambuilding exercise appearance, great pointers on held Jan. 10-12 for technical it wasn’t. It was really great on the second day. Students organizing outlook, and much sergeants through senior master getting to meet some of the were separated into three more.” Photo by Chief Master Sgt. Michelle Shafer sergeants and second lieutenants men and women who work teams and given a box of “I would absolutely through captains, covered topics Chief Master Sgt. Mark Schaible instructs a portion of the 109th Airlift Wing’s first Leadership Development Course at the Naval Operations Support Center on the base. They bring a lot uncooked spaghetti and a bag recommend others to take this on Jan. 12, 2014. including Profession of Arms, of perspective and diversity of marshmallows. They had 50 course,” Roberts said. “In the performance review writing, from working in the field that I minutes to build a tower with Guard, we sometimes don’t course),” Giaquinto said. “Leaders came time management and career normally wouldn’t get a chance just those supplies. have the opportunities to attend together to create the three-day course management. to see while working here at (the “The goal was to come these types of courses. Any curriculum and a small group of students In an article published in Division of Military and Naval together as a team to build the chance a member gets to get were the first to take advantage of this October, Chief Master Sgt. Affairs).” highest tower,” said Trottier. ‘re-blued’ they should jump on training opportunity. I want to thank both Amy Giaquinto, 109th AW Chief Master Sgt. Mark “We asked what strategies they it. We should never stop trying groups for laying the groundwork, and I command chief, said her Schaible, 109th Logistics used, did they assign taskers to learn and grow as NCOs and am looking forward to more future leaders priorities mirror Chief Master Readiness Squadron, said one and how they communicated. senior NCOs.” attending this course in the upcoming Sgt. James Hotaling, Air of their goals was to get Airmen Did the teamwork work, did Schaible said they received months. I highly encourage all 109th National Guard command to know others around the base. they establish a goal? We also very positive feedback from the members take advantage of this unique chief, which is for Airmen to “All these people now know wanted to know what challenges students. He said their feedback training opportunity.” renew their commitment to the people they probably didn’t even they had. Everybody did a great is what will continue to make The Wing has held two additional classes Profession of Arms and Health know before the course because job. The winning team built a the course even better. since the first one in January. Airmen who of the Force, and recognize/ of the different duty sections. tower that was 39.5 inches. They “One of the key things we are interested should be on the lookout for embrace our accomplishments. Now they have a common all communicated and worked kept reiterating to the class is announcements of upcoming classes and These three focus areas cover ground after going through the as a team, even with the time this is not the Chief’s Council’s talk with their first sergeants about signing training, leadership, mentorship, course together.” constraint.” class, this is your class,” he said. up. the “little Brown Book,” safety, “Seeing the different “Exposure to problem “You can help us do this better resilience, recognition and perspectives from different solving with other members for the next class. This should be realizing how each Airman fits areas on the base is not always in the unit was eye opening,” an ever-evolving and changing Airmen construct a tower made of spaghetti and into the mission. available when you are coming Franklin said. “Everyone has leadership development course.” marshmallows during a team building exercise May 8, 2014, during the 109th Airlift Wing’s third Giaquinto had said she wanted in doing your job and going a different perspective, but “I was fortunate to observe Leadership Development Course. to bring all this back through home,” said Tech. Sgt. Anna working together we can come different portions of (the Photo by Senior Airman Xenia Wieland 20 The Skibird Spring/Summer 2014 21 Training Training

Senior Master Sgt. Michael Decker goes over what the Small Air Terminal will be training on for the day on April 7, 2014. Training included preparing vehicles and other cargo that would be transported to Greenland for the start of the 2014 season.

(Above) Master Sgt. Rick Cowsert and Staff Sgt. Jason Borgen compute the center of balance of each piece of AGE equipment and then document it for computer input. (Right) Master Sgt. Chris Wood guides Master Sgt. Rick Cowsert on to wheel scales to get axle weights. Senior members (Above) Senior Master Sgt. Michael Decker shows Airmen how to of the 109th Small Air measure the height of aerospace ground equipment (AGE) that will Terminal trained Airmen on deploy to Greenland. (Left) Tech. Sgt. Kyle Partlow and Staff Sgt. Jessica how to weigh, center and Collins measure the wheelbase of AGE equipment. The Airmen were balance vehicles and AGE getting training on preparing cargo for deployment which would actually equipment that was going to be deploying to Greenland for the start of the season. be transported to Greenland for the start of the 2014 season. For some Airmen in Real-world training the Small Air Terminal, this Photos by was their first opportunity for hands-on, real-world Staff Sgt. Benjamin German training.

22 The Skibird Spring/Summer 2014 23 Sports Sports Playing for a cause

Courtesy photo by Andy Camp/AC Design Hockey team The MacBoston FD Hockey Team played the FDNY Hockey Team on March 22, 2014, as a benefit game to raise money for the MacBoston 18 Truck organization. MacBoston beat FDNY 9–5. keeps memory recruitment of firefighters.” While the team’s intent is to benefit of fallen firefighters who have died in the line of duty, they have also done events for other charity firefighters alive organizations, including a game in October to benefit breast cancer awareness, where By Tech. Sgt. Catharine Schmidt they raised just over $1,000. 109th AW Public Affairs Myers is currently working on the team’s next benefit game to raise money for the New York State Fallen Firefighters taff Sgt. Adam Myers, 109th Civil Courtesy photo by Joanne Duffy Memorial in Albany. The game is scheduled Engineer Squadron firefighter, and for Labor Day weekend at Union College. Master Sgt. Mike Lazzari, 109th Staff Sgt. Adam Myers is the founder of the MacBoston FD Hockey Team. The purpose of the team is S organize and participate in benefit games to raise money for charities and organizations that pertain to To find out more about the MacBoston FD Mission Support Group first sergeant, the fire service, honoring Line of Duty Deaths and their families. Myers is a firefighter with the 109th Civil Hockey Team, visit their website at www. faced off on the ice during a charity hockey Engineer Squadron and a volunteer firefighter with the Schuyler Hose Company in Schuylerville, N.Y. macbostonhockey.com. They are also on game hosted by the MacBoston FD Hockey Facebook as “MacBoston FD Hockey”. Team on March 22 at the Civic Center in Myers, a volunteer firefighter with the Myers said they reached out to the FDNY Queensbury, N.Y. Schuyler Hose Company in Schuylerville, after Lazzari mentioned they also had a MacBoston played against the FDNY said his father had gotten him into playing team. “They were all for it,” Myers said. MacBoston’s Daryl Clifford faces off against (Squad288/Hazmat-1/Rescue-1) Hockey hockey as a child. “He got a little upset with “It was a joint effort. Having them there Anthony Galtiei from FDNY Squad 288 during a benefit game March 22, 2014. The teams raised Team, which Lazzari is a member of, me when I stopped playing,” Myers joked. really helped, because pretty much anything raising money for the MacBoston 18 Truck more than $6,700 for the MacBoston 18 Truck “So this is kind of a tribute to him.” that has FDNY involved brings in a lot of organization. organization, a nonprofit that “promotes the The MacBoston Hockey Team consists people.” Courtesy photo by Andy Camp/AC Design brotherhood of the Fire Service and keeps of about 25 local firefighters, both volunteer Myers said they had a good turnout, the memory of our Fallen Brothers and and career, throughout the area. He and two especially being that they are such a new Sisters alive.” The game was in conjunction other firefighters with the 109th CES, Fire team. MacBoston won the game 9–5, but with the Adirondack Phantoms game later said FDNY may be able to come back for that evening. Capt. John Saupp and Senior Airman Daniel Myers started the team about a year ago, Marchand, are part of the team. revenge. “We’re trying to make this an with the intent of raising money for various “More people are getting to know about annual event.” fire service organizations. MacBoston 18 us now, which is great, and we’re also More than $6,700 was raised during Stratton Activities Club Truck was one of those organizations and getting better as a team,” Myers said. “We the game through ticket sales and raffles. was also close to his heart. kind of just threw 20 guys together who The mission statement of MacBoston 18 Join the Stratton Activities Club Facebook group to get information on upcoming events. “My father was a line of duty death in really didn’t know each other. We’re really Truck is “to keep alive the memory of NYS The group is set up to connect members together in physical activity off base, advance at 1997,” Myers said. “MacBoston started their starting to work well together as a team.” firefighters who died in the Line of Duty whatever pace they wish, and achieve their individual training or racing goals. organization a couple years prior because The team comprises all different skill by promoting firefighter safety through of a line of duty death in Hudson Falls, and levels. “We have some who are really good education and raise public awareness with www.facebook.com/groups/109thSAC they were there for my father’s funeral.” and some who have just started.” fire safety and prevention and assist in the

24 The Skibird Spring/Summer 2014 25 In the Community In the Community Victory Parade Airmen with the 109th Airlift Wing and family members participated in the Union Dutchmen’s victory parade in Schenectady, N.Y., on April 17, 2014. This was the first national championship for the men’s hockey team. Pictured are (from left): Lt. Col. Matthew LeClair, Chief Master Sgt. Mark Giaquinto, Col. Walter Wintsch, Capt. Ashley FitzGibbon, Sara O’Connor, Katie Nealon, A.J. Giaquinto, Chief Master Sgt. Photo by Staff Sgt. Blair Sass Photo by Master Sgt. William Gizara Amy Giaquinto, Senior Airman Brittany Rankin and 1st Lt. Stratton Interns Lynsey Cross. Courtesy Photo High school seniors recently completed their 22-hour internship at the 109th Airlift Wing. The students pictured top left completed their internship through Troy Questar May 5–9, 2014, in Aviation Maintenance. The students pictured top right also completed their internship through Troy Questar in Aviation Maintenance March 24–28, 2014. The students pictured left completed their internship through Hudson Questar in Welding May 5–9, 2014. Not pictured are the students who completed their internship through Hudson Questar May 5–9, 2014, in Aviation Flight.

Photo by Staff Sgt. Blair Sass

Plane Pull The 109th Airlift Wing’s team of 25 kicked off the Unified Military Affairs Council Airplane Pull event on May 22, 2014, at Richmor Aviation, Schenectady County Airport. About 20 teams from around the local area participated in the event with the goal of pulling a LC-130 “Skibird” 15 feet in the fastest time possible. The 109th AW team pulled the aircraft in 14:48 seconds.

Courtesy photo Memorial Day Parade About 40 Airmen with the 109th Airlift Wing marched in the annual Scotia-Glenville Memorial Day Parade on Wednesday,

May 21, 2014. The 109th also displayed a Humvee, the Baby Herc and their recruiting car in the parade. Photo by Master Sgt. William Gizara

26 The Skibird Spring/Summer 2014 27 Around the Wing Retired pay age reduced By Capt. Thomas Feeley including training, statute 12303); documents will be approved, 109th Force Support Squadron operational support – While in captive status (10 and you will have the ability to duties and school tours. It U.S.C. statute 12301 (g)); view your Confirmed Retired id you know that if does not matter whether – As a member not assigned to, Pay Eligibility through vPC- you are going to retire active-duty time is paid for under or participating satisfactorily in, GR. If ARPC determines that under traditional guard military or Reserve personnel units (10 U.S.C. statute 12303); the service is not qualifying, the D appropriation accounts, provided – Under active-duty agreements documents will be disapproved. status some of you may be able to start collecting your retired such active duty is performed (10 U.S.C. statute 12311); In order to submit the request, pension earlier than age 60? under the authority of 10 U.S. – For disciplinary/courts-martial log into vPC-GR and click on the Effective January 28, 2008, the Code statute 12301(d). (10 U.S.C. statute 12315); “Actions Requests” tab. On the FY 2008 NDAA has authorized Also included is full-time – For muster duty (10 U.S.C. right side of the page underneath the Reserve retired pay age to be National Guard duty served statute 12319). the Retirements heading, click reduced below age 60 by three under a call to active service by Qualifying active-duty service on the Reduced Retired Pay months for each aggregate of 90 a governor and authorized by performed after January 28, Age link. Type your initials on days active duty performed in the President or the Secretary of 2008, the date on which the the next page and you will be support of a contingency during Defense under 32 U.S.C. statute fiscal 2008 National Defense taken to the submission form. the same fiscal year. The age for 502(f) for purposes of responding Authorization Act was enacted, Log into AROWS and save the retired pay cannot be reduced to either a national emergency is creditable. The law does not orders you believe are qualifying below the age of 50. declared by the president or a provide credit for time served on of this provision to your desktop Involuntary mobilization national emergency supported or before that date. and then upload those documents and voluntary active duty in by federal funds. To determine if the time on into the submission form and support of a contingency qualify, The following time served on active duty you have performed then click submit. To monitor but there is no requirement to active duty is not creditable service is qualifying service toward the the status of the submission, you be involuntarily mobilized, to for purposes of reducing retired pay reduced retired pay age, you will be able to see the submission support a contingency or to age: will need to submit completed under the worklist tab in vPC-GR. serve on active duty outside – As a member of the Active and certified copies of the orders Any further questions regarding the continental United States Guard and Reserve (10 U.S.C through vPC-GR for review and this can be directed to the 109th to receive credit under the law. statute 12310); verification. If ARPC determines FSS Military Personnel Flight. Most active-duty time qualifies, – On an annual tour (10 U.S.C. that the service is qualifying, the StARS gains 5 new members By Senior Master Sgt. Greg Mihalko communications. in the Dining Facility on Jan. will prepare for emergency 109th Communications Flight They contribute to 12. Congratulations to Senior communications to include the MARS mission Airman Matthew Livingston, Sky Warning weather he Military Auxiliary providing auxiliary or Tech. Sgt. Scott Anderson, tracking, MARS and satellite Radio System (MARS) emergency communications on a Tech. Sgt. Dave Gifford, Master communications working with – formerly known as T local, national, and international Sgt. Christopher Moore and local and federal authorities for Military Affiliate Radio System basis as an adjunct to normal Master Sgt. Patrick Reimann exercises and real world events. – is a Department of Defense (DOD) sponsored program, communications. on successfully passing the For those interested in joining established as separate managed In order to fulfill the base test. Senior Master Sgt. Greg the world of amateur radio, and operated programs by the MARS requirements, a team of Mihalko was also successful please contact Chief Master Sgt. Army, Navy, and Air Force. The Amateur Radio Examiners led in obtaining the next level Michael DelGiacco. The next program consists of licensed by FBI specialist Frank Frisone, of privileges on his amateur testing date is scheduled for June amateur radio operators who provided testing for amateur license. UTA. are interested in military radio licenses which took place StARS Club members

28 The Skibird Alumni News

Photo by Master Sgt. William Gizara Members of the 109th AW Alumni Association cook lunch for members on the base on May 14, 2014, as part of their Summer Wednesday Lunch Program. Alumni Association seeks new members By Retired Chief Master Sgt. bicycles to local schools for merit programs. Treasurer: Ken Bliss, Bill McBride Our Alumni also provides tuition funds to send Board of Director Members: Alumni Secretary Junior Class Boys to the American Legion Boys Bill Pickney, Howard Ray, Charlie Shatley and State Program every June. Annette Briggs. Summer Lunch Program Alumni membership is open to any former Upcoming Events The Summer Wednesday Lunch Program 109th member. You do not have to be retired The 109th Airlift Wing Alumni Association began April 30 on base at the All Ranks Club. to belong to the Alumni. At this time we have Summer Picnic will be held on Saturday We are always looking for volunteers from our about 110 members, and we would like to see afternoon on Aug. 2 this summer on base at members to help with this program. Volunteers that number grow. Applications are available the picnic area. Plan on attending for some are needed between 10 a.m. and 1 p.m. on in the All Ranks Club. All meetings are held plain old camaraderie. All Alumni members scheduled Wednesday lunch days. The meal on the third Wednesday of each month at whose dues are paid up for 2014 will receive program runs through the last Wednesday in 7:30 p.m. at the All Ranks Club in Bldg. a Picnic RSVP form in the mail. August. 24 at Stratton Air National Guard Base. We We also have a swell Christmas party Who We Are always look forward to seeing new faces at every year. The party is always held on our The 109th Alumni Association was formed our meetings. December meeting night. The last two of back in the early 1980s as a support organization 2014 Officers these were held in the dining hall and were for the 109th Airlift Wing. Since its existence, Alumni Election of Officers was held at the catered by the Turf Tavern from Scotia and the Alumni has been involved with and has January 2014 monthly Alumni meeting. (You were wonderful events. We hope to see you supported Wing Family Days, full-timers’ just may recognize some of these people). there also. picnics, All Ranks Club events and Wing President: John Ryan Until the next issue of this Skibird Magazine anniversary celebrations. The Alumni has Vice President: Milt Terwilliger Alumni News, stay happy, healthy, safe and donated benches for the Base Flagpole area and Secretary: Bill McBride enjoy Spring and think Summer.

Spring/Summer 2014 29 Spotlight

Courtesy photo by Carrie Krogmann/Parental Releases Confirmed Staff Sgt. Jeff Hayes spoke to first-graders at Kensington Road Elementary School in Glens Falls, N.Y., on Nov. 8, 2013, about Veterans Day. taff Sgt. Jeff Hayes joined the active duty Air Force in 2006. He Photo by Master Sgt. William Gizara Staff Sgt. Kylief Tucker works in the Sheet Metal Shop with the 109th said he was looking for direction and purpose, and the military Maintenance Group. Tucker was recently selected as the 109th Airlift Wing Soffered him those opportunities. Airman of the Year. After his initial enlistment, Hayes looked into the Reserve so he could further his education. He joined the Reserve unit at Westover Air taff Sgt. Kylief Tucker has been with the 109th Airlift Wing Reserve Base, Mass., where he earned his associate’s degree. He decided for five years. He said he joined the Air National Guard he wanted to be closer to home and a friend of his told him about the Sbecause he wanted to do something that mattered. “The job I 109th Airlift Wing. “Ultimately I wanted to represent the Air Force and was at was going nowhere, and I wanted to actually DO something the state of New York while being close to my family and friends at the that mattered. I heard about the Guard, and all of the benefits same time,” Hayes said. “This unit allowed me to do just that.” associated with it, and I made my decision to join.” Hayes joined the unit as a knowledge operations manager with the Tucker is assigned to the 109th Maintenance Group and was 109th Airlift Wing staff. recently selected as the 109th Airlift Wing’s Airman of the Year. “Being on active duty and a reservist was a great experience because it He was promoted to staff sergeant in May of this year. Besides his allowed me to see the ebb and flow of dramatic changes in ops tempo and work with the Wing, he is also a lifelong fitness enthusiast and loves the effects it has on its personnel. Once I was stationed here, I was almost martial arts. taken aback by how friendly everyone was and how close-knit their “I have studied many different disciplines over the years and relationships with their colleagues were. You can feel the genuineness have even obtained a boxing instructor certification,” he said. He when you come through the gate. I’m blown away and so grateful to be said he hopes to bring the knowledge he has learned as a personal a part of this base.” trainer over the years to the members of the 109th Airlift Wing.

Awards Meritorious Service Medal Air Force Commendation Medal Aerial Achievement Medal Col. Joseph E. Lamendola – JFHQ Lt. Col. Alan N. Ross – AW MSgt Michael D. Cousineau – AS Lt. Col. Fabio S. Ritmo – MXS Maj. Ryan P. Walsh – LRS CMSgt Timothy M. Kane – SFS 2nd Lt. Colette D. Muller – AW SMSgt Joseph V. Cerniglia – MXG SMSgt Richard D. Felton – OSS Air Force Achievement Medal SMSgt Edward A. Holub – JFHQ SMSgt Patrick J. Fitzgerald – LRS Col. Joseph E. Lamendola – JFHQ SMSgt John W. Lawlor – AMXS MSgt Amanda L. Blodgett – LRS Lt. Col. Ronald H. Ankabrandt – CF SMSgt Greg M. Mihalko – CF TSgt Scott E. Anson – SFS TSgt Eric D. Carlo – MXS SMSgt Peter C. Nestor – LRS TSgt Richard W. Hall – MXS TSgt Jeremy C. Naparty – AES MSgt Gary R. Brown – SFS TSgt Matthew R. Kergel – AMXS SSgt Raymond E. Crispell – MXS MSgt Mark C. DeMichele – ARPC SSgt Kevin D. Ronca – MXS SrA Christopher P. Holt – AMXS MSgt Jeremy P. Martelle – OSS SrA Brittany L. Rankin – MXS SrA Latisha C. Webb – AMXS MSgt Joseph F. Thorpe – AS SrA Kylief J. Tucker – MXS

Dec. 1, 2013 – May 1, 2014

30 The Skibird Spotlight

Officer Promotions Enlisted Promotions Brigadier General Chief Master Sergeant Staff Sergeant Dawne L. Deskins – JFHQ Ward M. Lacy – CES Stephen Bogart – CES Joshua Walters – SFS Jeremy Bourquin – CES Lieutenant Colonel Steven DeRuggiero – MXG Daniel P. Legere – AES Senior Master Sergeant Nathan P. Jordan – AS James E. Maunz – AS Kelly Eustis – SFS Ashley Leonard – MDG Kevin Moughan – MXG Abby Nelson – MDG Major Brian M. Roberts – JFHQ Brian M. Reith – OG Anthony L. Bucci – AW Kenneth Towne – MXG Kylief Tucker – MXG Rita M. O’Brian – AES Marcus Wallace – MXG Master Sergeant Nicholas S. Willard – STUF Captain Bret Backus – AS Joshua A. German – AS Christopher Collins – AS Senior Airman Jennifer L. Seney – AES Jennifer Conti – AW Joseph M. Campbell – FSS James R. VanWormer – CES Paul Davignon – SFS Jason Candido – MXG Kenneth C. Walther – MDG Kyle DeFeo – SFS Thomas Gallagher – MXG Aletha K. DellaRocco – JFHQ Joshua L. Henderson – FSS Keith Eriole – FSS John Konczeski – CF First Lieutenant Christopher Lovelock – MXG Michael E. Fusaro – MDG Edward Lovett – MXG Manuel Morales – SFS Colette D. Muller – AW Scott Molyneaux – LRS Steven J. Perrigo – LRS Joseph C. Nolan – MDG Jeremy Muller – LRS Joseph V. Peters – AS Shawn R. Rulison – LRS David R. Ricks – MXG Joseph S. Smith – AES Adam Podbielski – SFS Daniel W. Swatling – AS Christopher Prusak – MXG Second Lieutenant April E. Veeder – AES Xenia Wieland – MDG Matthew E. Cotter – OSS David H. Koscinski – AS Technical Sergeant Airman 1st Class Tiernan J. Nolan – STUF Michael Bernardi – MXG Morgan K. Boldish – LRS Joshua Bowers – MXG Ray A. Caban – STUF Caleb T. Brumleve – LRS Elizabeth M. Campbell – STUF Scott Carpenter – MXG Patrick A. Cotnoir – FSS Satellite NCOA Class 14-7 Johnny N. Cope – CF Francis DiCaprio – SFS Phase I: Aug. 25 – Nov. 25 Kevin J. Couture – CES Tiffany S. Dobrzenski – STUF Weekday Night Schedule Scott Everson – AS Edward Gregory – LRS Stratton ANGB James Gagne – AW Sean M. Madigan – STUF Sarah B. McKinney – STUF Phase II: Dec. 2 – Dec. 18 Robert C. Harrington – CF Todd W. Howard – LRS Edwin P. Murey – STUF McGhee-Tyson ANGB, Tenn. Anastasios G. Mantzouris – LRS Cody Platt – STUF Mark Milian – AW Scott C. Pierce – STUF Satellite ALS Class 15-2 Kerry Nicklas – MXG Matthew S. Rivera – STUF Phase I: Oct. 25 – Nov. 25 Andre Noel – SFS Emily A. Roth – STUF Nyan W. Tun – STUF Full Saturday/Sunday Schedule Andrew Nowacki – MXG Kevin Ronca – MXG Jared M. Walker – STUF Stratton ANGB Shaun Stillman – CES Benjamin J. Watsky – STUF Phase II: Dec. 3 – Dec. 18 McGhee-Tyson ANGB, Tenn. Airman Basic Austin S. Dean – STUF Contact your UTM for eligibility Jaclyn M. Lavin – STUF Dec. 1, 2013 – May 1, 2014 Cody B. Russell – STUF and application process.

Spring/Summer 2014 31 109th Airlift Wing 1 Air National Guard Road Scotia, NY 12302-9752

File Photo illustration

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