B-4 ......

Losing weight and feeling great feeling and weight Losing ECRWSS B-2 ...... church? is What Faith: of Matters

Photos, B-5 Photos, PRSRT-STD

B-1 ...... family country, to service Balancing

Black Ops tourney, tourney, Ops Black U.S. Postage

A-2 ...... conference Africa South address to Guardsman nabs win in BOSS in win nabs

A-2 ...... conditions arctic in HAZMAT Cleaning

Team Thunderdome Thunderdome Team PAID

Anchorage

Inside Duty of Call Canadians integral to 962nd mission, A-2 mission, 962nd to integral Canadians Publishing

POSTAL CUSTOMER

could do with so few people.” few so with do could future.” the face they as Afghanistan - command Headquarters, Engineer Brigade

tremely well. We were surprised at what we we what at surprised were We well. tremely of people the for concern less one leaves Theater the as responsibility assumed they

- ex performed they “But explained. Shoaf ordnance, dangerous potentially of cleared arrived, headquarters brigade the Once

didn’t understand what it’s like to deploy,” deploy,” to like it’s what understand didn’t Trailblazers the range “Every said. Shields spring. last Afghanistan to ployed

wracking with them not knowing that they they that knowing not them with wracking manner,” responsible a in presence military - de Battalion Support Sustainment Combat

ployed before, and that was a little nerve nerve little a was that and before, ployed the reducing to commitment our strated 17th the and Company Engineer 23rd the

- de never had formation our of “Half - demon it as critical, was effort “This Headquarters, Brigade Engineer 2d the from

ment proved to be a challenge. a be to proved ment munitions. sive Soldiers 250 approximately said general,

98 - deploy the for Soldiers headquarters paring - high-explo 10,000 than more of disposing commanding USARAK Shields, Michael

- pre said Carolina, South Augusta, North of country, the across ranges training 104 than Gen. Maj. Army remarks, his During

Engineer Brigade first sergeant and a native native a and sergeant first Brigade Engineer more from explosives clearing of oversight Elmendorf-Richardson.

quarters and Headquarters Company, 2d 2d Company, Headquarters and quarters technical the managed also brigade The Base Joint on Armory Guard National Army

- Head Shoaf, William Sgt. 1st Army inventory. supply Army’s the to Alaska the at ceremony redeployment 5 Feb.

I’ve ever been.” ever I’ve effort. larger the equipment of worth million $51 than more a during Brigade Engineer 2d the of ments

ness, this is probably one of the best places places best the of one probably is this ness, support to level small-unit the at required returned and sites, project from debris of - accomplish the share to opportunity the took

- readi family of terms “In said. Jimmerson was work much accomplished, Brigade yards cubic 120,000 than more away hauled leaders Alaska Army U.S. and Brigade

and the support system here is awesome,” awesome,” is here system support the and Engineer Theater the what on placed ably structures, wood 662 demolished bases, 48 states. the to

“This is my first time stationed overseas overseas stationed time first my is “This - justifi was focus the of most Though of transfer or closure the synchronized tures, infrastructure and equipment of retrograde

hand,” Bell said. said. Bell hand,” graduations.” and births anniversaries, missed - struc tension-fabric 108 retrograded and massive a undertook and units, engineer

have people who can reach out and lend a a lend and out reach can who people have many too far were “There said. Andrysiak deconstructed brigade the said Shields Afghan with partnered country, the across

spouses needs help around the house, we we house, the around help needs spouses back,” time] [that give can’t we made, have conditions.” austere under units engineer commanded headquarters

if there was an emergency, or one of the the of one or emergency, an was there if they sacrifices the that well too know “I that just delivered Trailblazers Arctic Our brigade the where Afghanistan to ployment

of everybody’s spouses and next of kin, so so kin, of next and spouses everybody’s of families. their of support leadership. adaptive and flexibility required - de seven-month their during feat similar a

“They maintain a full contact roster roster contact full a maintain “They home-front the on relying alone, Forces It for. train routinely can we one not and accomplished Brigade Engineer 2d the of

during deployments. during Afghan to country the transitioning of sion challenge atypical very a is “It said. general members service later, years 65 Nearly

ported by the unit’s family readiness group group readiness family unit’s the by ported - mis their accomplished have couldn’t diers the continued,” hostilities as even ghanistan, engineers. the of efforts the

- sup are families Soldiers’ the said Bell - Sol the said commander brigade The - Af in footprint allied and U.S. the reduce to to due largely communists, the of hands the

don’t know what to expect on short notice.” short on expect to what know don’t duties. engineer them required mission Trailblazers’ “The into falling from saved were cargo bulk of

my younger guys this is very stressful; they they stressful; very is this guys younger my over take fully to them prepare to Brigade Afghanistan. in forces NATO and U.S. of tons 350,000 and vehicles 18,000 refugees,

ployment, so I’m kind of used to it, but for for but it, to used of kind I’m so ployment, Engineer National Afghan the with partnered drawdown rapid the to due challenging cially Korean 98,100 troops, 105,000 told, All

- de eighth my is “This sergeant. platoon Trailblazers the how about spoke mander, - espe was deployment the said Shields reverse.” in

Ahmad Jimmerson, electronic maintenance maintenance electronic Jimmerson, Ahmad - Com Brigade Engineer 2nd Andrysiak, Airmen. and Sailors Soldiers, thousand landing “amphibious an dubbed be quickly

our gear packed up,” said Army Staff Sgt. Sgt. Staff Army said up,” packed gear our Peter Col. Army remarks, his During a than more of force task engineer an ing would that operation an – ship aboard ment

and trying to get everyone trained up and and up trained everyone get to trying and - equip and personnel of loading the vise

redeployment ceremony at the Alaska Army National Guard Armory. Armory. Guard National Army Alaska the at ceremony redeployment

“It’s kind of hectic with our family life life family our with hectic of kind “It’s - super and port the run to Brigade Special

Sgt. James Boker, 2d Engineer Brigade, guards the U.S. flag during the Feb. 5 brigade brigade 5 Feb. the during flag U.S. the guards Brigade, Engineer 2d Boker, James Sgt.

a contingency environment. contingency a Engineer 2d Corps’ X the to up was It

leadership is setting them up to succeed in in succeed to up them setting is leadership time. second a encircled being risk

jobs supporting U.S. Army Alaska, and and Alaska, Army U.S. supporting jobs would unit battered the lines, Nations United

younger Soldiers who are skilled at their their at skilled are who Soldiers younger to evacuate couldn’t they If Hungnam. of

forces and maneuvered south to the port port the to south maneuvered and forces Bell also said the company has many many has company the said also Bell

avoided destruction by Chinese Communist Communist Chinese by destruction avoided doubts.”

Marines and Soldiers of the X Corps had had Corps X the of Soldiers and Marines sure everyone is ready and that there are no no are there that and ready is everyone sure

lowing the breakout of the Chosin Reservoir, Reservoir, Chosin the of breakout the lowing kinds of different training courses to make make to courses training different of kinds

- Fol War. Korean The 1950. December explosive device and cultural awareness; all all awareness; cultural and device explosive

done a lot of training – counter-improvised counter-improvised – training of lot a done

JBER Public Affairs Public JBER ahead, that we know of,” Bell said. “We’ve “We’ve said. Bell of,” know we that ahead, By David Bedard David By that aspect and prepared for what’s lying lying what’s for prepared and aspect that

“We’re making sure they are ready in in ready are they sure making “We’re taining readiness. taining Afghanistan - main from them prevented hasn’t prepare

said she agreed and added the short time to to time short the added and agreed she said leader Army 1st Lt. Kristen Bell, 98th MC, MC, 98th Bell, Kristen Lt. 1st Army leader units to leave leave to units Ground support equipment platoon platoon equipment support Ground

least a year to prepare.” to year a least deployments, we would come in and have at at have and in come would we deployments, among last last among be on a cycle. In the past, with more frequent frequent more with past, the In cycle. a on be

98th MC commander. “Normally we would would we “Normally commander. MC 98th

ment,” said Army Capt. Andrew Rainey, Rainey, Andrew Capt. Army said ment,”

Engineers Engineers

- deploy a of regardless deploy] [to train we

“This time, it was a little different but but different little a was it time, “This

mand area of operations. operations. of area mand

month deployment to Afghanistan and their reintegration with U.S. Army Alaska. (U.S. Air Force photos/David Bedard) photos/David Force Air (U.S. Alaska. Army U.S. with reintegration their and Afghanistan to deployment month - Com Central the in maintenance providing

Guard Armory on Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson. The uncasing of the colors symbolizes the brigade’s return from a seven- a from return brigade’s the symbolizes colors the of uncasing The Elmendorf-Richardson. Base Joint on Armory Guard October to deploy for nine months to a year year a to months nine for deploy to October

command sergeant major, uncase the unit colors during a Feb. 5 brigade redeployment ceremony at the Alaska Army National National Army Alaska the at ceremony redeployment brigade 5 Feb. a during colors unit the uncase major, sergeant command The 98th MC has been preparing since since preparing been has MC 98th The

Army Col. Peter Andrysiak, 2d Engineer Brigade commander, and Command Sgt. Maj. Bradley Houston, 2d Engineer Brigade Brigade Engineer 2d Houston, Bradley Maj. Sgt. Command and commander, Brigade Engineer 2d Andrysiak, Peter Col. Army mission in Kuwait.” in mission

on very short notice, has prepared for the the for prepared has notice, short very on

have been a blizzard of activity. This unit, unit, This activity. of blizzard a been have

pany’s parent battalion. “The past 60 days days 60 past “The battalion. parent pany’s

- com the (Provisional), Battalion Engineer

Col. Kirk Boston, commander of the 532nd 532nd the of commander Boston, Kirk Col.

ready to answer that call,” said Army Lt. Lt. Army said call,” that answer to ready

to deploy, and I report they are trained and and trained are they report I and deploy, to

“This unit has been called by our nation nation our by called been has unit “This

Richardson Feb. 6. Feb. Richardson

cal Fitness Center on Joint Base Elmendorf- Base Joint on Center Fitness cal

- Physi Buckner at ceremony deployment a in

support operations soon, honored its Soldiers Soldiers its honored soon, operations support

uled to deploy to Kuwait for maintenance maintenance for Kuwait to deploy to uled

- sched Company, Maintenance 98th The

JBER Public Affairs Public JBER

By Staff Sgt. William Banton William Sgt. Staff By

Kuwait

to deploy to to deploy to

company set set company

Maintenance Maintenance

MARK AFGHANISTAN DEPLOYMENT AFGHANISTAN MARK

TRAILBLAZERS

www.jber.af.mil Volume 6, No. 6 No. 6, Volume February 13, 2015 13, February W A ARRIOR RCTIC

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

PAGE A-5 PAGE Volume 6, No. 3 No. 6, Volume

COPING WITH PTSD WITH COPING EPHEMERAL A-2 News February 13, 2015 Royal Canadian, U.S. air forces create integrated top cover

JBER Public Affairs sight that is going to tell us what “It’s definitely a crew-com- portunity to work with allies and cultures that are dissimilar.” Staff report to do. We are squadron members posed aircraft,” said Senior Airman be involved in international opera- The cultural similarities be- first, and that is understood by the Scott Ellis, a 962nd communica- tions that attracted him to becom- tween Canada and its southern During the Cold War, the So- entire structure here at the 962nd; it tion technician. “You’ve got your ing an ABM, and that desire paid neighbor mean that integration is viet threat lay not far to the west is a unique thing because you don’t flight deck; they are driving us to off when he had an opportunity to less taxing, while still providing a of Alaska. The state’s nearest often see that. where we need to be. You’ve got support the NATO flying mission new outlook, Derenzis said. neighbor shared more than 1,500 “We’ve found that level of your techs, which is my job ... we on board an E-3 stationed out of “Coming here, you see a miles of border and the mission to integration has become part of the make sure all the equipment is Germany. different approach to operation protect North America. squadron’s culture,” he said. working. Then you’ve got your “There were 17 nations in- and a different approach to regu- They still do. As a mission crew commander, mission crew, and Derenzis is the volved in that mission when I lations,” he said. “It is fantastic Several members of the Royal Derenzis is responsible for the big boss-man for that side of the was there,” Derenzis said. “You to have that; you can kind of take Canadian Air Force are assigned execution of the E-3’s assigned house. can imagine between those 17 the best approaches from the dif- to Joint Base Elmendorf-Richard- mission as well as command of the “Everyone has their own role nationalities, mostly European, ferent services you work with and son’s 962nd Airborne Air Control multi-faceted mission crew who on the jet, and the MCC is tak- you’re going to have different ex- attempt to incorporate them into Squadron, where they help main- operate the aircraft’s hardware. ing all that information in and is pectations and a different paradigm your own.” tain top cover for both countries. The E-3 Sentry is an airborne making bigger decisions,” Ellis brought to the table.” The appreciation goes both The Canadian air battle man- warning and control system – pro- said. Derenzis said his exposure to ways. agers with the 962nd AACS are viding awareness of friendly and The Canadian and U.S. air U.S. Air Force operations has giv- “What they bring to the fight certified at Tinker Air Force Base, hostile activity, command of an forces work so closely in air de- en him an increased appreciation each and every day is awesome,” Oklahoma on all operational re- area of responsibility, all-weather fense because of NORAD commit- for the subtle differences between said Chief Master Sgt. Dwayne quirements before being assigned surveillance, and early warning of ments, Derenzis said; U.S. Airmen actually working on a U.S. aircraft Ward, 962nd AACS chief enlisted to JBER, and are not considered enemy actions during operations. are also stationed at Canadian and the secondary interaction he manager. “They bring a fresh per- exchange or visiting positions. “There are a lot of moving installations. had overseas. spective. “We fill any role we are asked pieces, and it’s the MCC’s role The co-manning arrangement “There is a fantastic op- “I think the mission, working to, and we [deploy] in support to ensure a coordinated effort to- ensures a seamless flow in contin- portunity to work with one an- side-by-side, is much easier than, of the taskings the squadron ward mission accomplishment,” gency operations. other very frequently, and that say, working with an Italian, a receives,” said RCAF Maj. Craig Derenzis said. “We’re collectively better at doesn’t [often] happen,” Derenzis Turk, [or the Dutch],” Ward said. Derenzis, a 962nd AACS mission Unlike a fairly straightforward defending North American air- said. “In the NATO context, it “We are both from the western crew commander and aerospace cargo plane, there are two over- space by integrating and working happens to a degree, but even hemisphere [and] we have a com- controller. “There is no secondary arching aspects of any E-3 flight cooperatively, ” he said. there you are looking at the com- mon interest, in that we both want input. There is no Canadian over- – the flying and the surveillance. Derenzis said it was the op- plications from several different to protect our air sovereignty.” Cleaning up in the cold: civil engineers train for HAZMAT response By Air Force Capt. Anastasia Wasem 11th Air Force Public Affairs

Members of the 611th Civil Engineer Squadron, along with five other state and federal agencies, practiced techniques to deal with oil or hazardous waste spills under cold weather conditions during an exercise on Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson Feb. 3 through 5. The 611th CES acts as first responder to incidents on JBER and King Salmon Divert Airfield, as well as secondary responder to 21 remote operating locations in Alaska and around the Pacific. It is also the only civil engineer squadron in the state that responds to oil spills, a role also unique in the Air Force. “With this exercise, we show that it is possible to find and recover oil in Arctic con- ditions,” said Scott Partlow, the U.S. Navy Supervisor of Salvage and Diving assistant base manager. “I think it’s a good thing that everyone gets out here and gets their hands dirty to figure out how the equipment works and why we do it.” The SUPSALV was just one of the agencies working with the 611th CES to increase joint interoperability and complete the exercise. In addition, the Army Corps of Engi- neers, the U.S. Coast Guard, Cook Inlet Spill Prevention and Response Inc. and the Alaska Department of Environmental Conservation had representatives to help plan, execute and train as part of the exercise. “It’s a unique opportunity just to have Members of the Alaska Department of Environmental Conservation, 611th Civil Engineer Squadron, and U.S. Navy Supervisor all these different agencies working together of Salvage and Diving set up the rope-mop skimmer during an Arctic oil spill response exercise Feb. 4. A trench is dug in the with the same focus in mind – to respond to ice and holes are drilled to allow the oil or other hazardous material to rise into the trench to be collected. The skimmer rotates a crisis and to be able to deploy the differ- through the trench collecting the oil and carrying it to a holding tank. The units participated in the exercise to practice Arctic ent techniques and be responsible for the spill-response tactics and techniques. (U.S. Air Force photo/Tech. Sgt. John Gordinier) cleanup,” said Air Force Master Sgt. Petree Buford, the 611th CES operations engineer- trench and is picked up by a rope skimmer, a from the water. cise are meant to control 60 to 70 thousand ing superintendent. device resembling a long, frayed rope, which “We’ll make a slice in the ice and then gallons of hazardous waste in a lake or river. The response teams learned and prac- absorbs oil and fuel. insert the plywood to act as a barrier or The 611th CES can respond to an in- ticed several different types of techniques The rope moves on pulleys, carrying the blockade to shoot the oil and water where cident on JBER in about 12 hours and in to use in the event of an oil spill. waste to a machine which separates the oil we want it to go,” Buford explained. about 24 to 48 hours for an incident at King The trenching and rope-mop method and water from the rope, and the oil is then While the techniques practiced and Salmon. consists of creating a trench in the ice, sent to a holding tank. employed by the 611th CES are effective, “This is important to the state of Alaska, without penetrating it, and then drilling Trainees also practiced a diversionary these are only temporary measures to prevent because here, oil would travel to the ocean holes down to the water through the trench, tactic, drilling holes in the ice to help de- spreading or to clean up a small spill until and have a much larger affected area if the said Partlow. termine the location of the spill and then larger assets can be deployed from other spill wasn’t contained,” Buford said. “It The oil or hazardous waste floats up simply inserting plywood to divert the spill agencies. could have a major impact on the residents through the holes, becomes trapped in the to the location needed in order to clear it The methods practiced during the exer- of Alaska.” Alaska Guardsman to speak at South Africa cyber-war conference Power, and the Cold War: A Strat- Association to see if they would be modations for the two-day con- “Every technology has its Technology egy for Cyberspace,” at the 10th willing to help,” Brill said. “They ference, and is also keeping its limitations,” Brill explained. “The annual International Conference said yes to my request right away members updated regarding the challenge with determining out- creates need for on Cyber Warfare and Security, … their enthusiasm in my suc- success of his presentation comes and developments in cyber hosted in South Africa on March cess has been awesome.” through its website. is that there is no cyber equivalent. new strategies 23. ANGOA has of- “We sponsored First “We know how bad nuclear Brill, who wrote the paper fered to pay for Brill’s Lieutenant Brill be- weapons are because we have By Sgt. Maria Lindsay while working toward his mas- airfare and accom- cause of his potential, Hiroshima. But we have no cyber ANG Public Affairs ter’s degree in Military Studies his past successes and Pearl Harbor,” he said. and Strategic Leadership at his desire to continue “The best we can do is theorize An Alaska Army National American Military University, pursuing excellence,” an outcome.” Guardsman is headed to South was invited to present at the said Army Na- Following his presentation in Africa next month to speak about conference after sub- tional Guard Col. South Africa, Brill, who is also cyberspace strategy at an interna- mitting his work. Edie Grunwald, a member of ANGOA, has been tional conference that will dive into However, president of AN- asked to speak at the organization’s cyber warfare issues. the conference GOA. “His paper on annual conference in May. Army National Guard 1st was unable to cyber strategy could “I am incredibly grateful to the Lt. Christopher Brill, a com- fund his travel from shape future decisions Alaska National Guard Officers munications platoon lead- Alaska. and strengthen the National Association and the Alaska Army er for the 297th Long Range “When I realized Guard’s role within the cyber National Guard,” Brill said. “I will Surveillance Squadron of I wouldn’t be able to realm.” make sure that, while presenting the Alaska Army National Guard, fund this trip, I reached Brill’s paper studies the theory my work, I do right by these orga- will present his academically- out to the Alaska Na- of cyber warfare and the weak- nizations and represent them in the published paper, “Clausewitz, Air tional Guard Officers nesses and strengths of technology. best way that I can.”

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 Arctic Warrior staff Command Chief Master Sgt. endorsed by, the U.S. government, Department of Defense, the Affairs, 10480 Sijan Ave., Suite 123, Joint Base Elmendorf- David Bedard - senior editor Department of the Air Force or the Department of the Army. Richardson, AK 99506; telephone (907) 552-8918. Garry E. Berry II The appearance of advertising in this publication, includ- Send emails about news stories and story submissions Chris McCann - editor ing inserts or supplements, does not constitute endorsement by to [email protected]. Jeremiah Erickson - community editor Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson/ U.S. government, the Department of Defense, the Department Deadline for article and photos is 4:30 p.m., Monday, for Justin Connaher - photo editor of the Air Force, the Department of the Army, or Wick Com- the week of publication. Articles and photos will be published 673d ABW Command Sergeant Major munications of the products or services advertised. on a space-available basis and are subject to editing by the Arc- Ed Cunningham - webmaster Command Sgt. Maj. Eugene J. Moses Everything advertised in this publication shall be made tic Warrior staff. Submission does not guarantee publication. February 13, 2015 News A-3 The Iceman cometh; 962d AACS and maintenance go anyway

Sentries to answer the alert call said Air Force Master Sgt. Fred Ar- The rules allow only two min- Gonzalez added, it’s likely the first New de-icing no matter how frigid and frozen mand, 962d AACS flight engineer, utes between de-icing and anti- time it’s ever been done. the otherwise-friendly skies might using the officially polite term icing, and a limited amount of time For the men and women of be. for less-than-sleek and less-than- to get off the ground from there, 962d AACS operations and main- fluid keeps “If anybody in the E-3 com- new aircraft. “We hold an alert Lehman said. tenance, the biggest thing for now munity is going to be able [to] or requirement in potentially six-plus If the crews break either of is knowing that they can do it and – have to do this,” said Air Force Lt. months a year of bad weather.” those windows, the entire process in the future – do it better, said Air AWACS jets Col. Eric Gonzalez, 962nd AACS “We need to be has to be started all over Force Lt. Col. Steve Eschmann, commander, “it’s going to be the able to prove we again, and the E-3 won’t 962d AACS assistant director of Alaska guys. It’s going to be us.” can launch a safe be able to keep up operations. fit to fly The 52 days of snowfall, 128 flight,” Armand with the rapid time- The key ally to readying a days of cold rain and nearly 100 added, “whenever line for responding 38-year old airborne early warn- By Air Force 2nd Lt. days of chilly fog which Joint higher headquarters to an alert. ing and control airframe is a truck Michael Trent Harrington Base Elmendorf-Richardson has might want it.” Elsewhere, they with a sunroof-and-windshield- JBER Public Affairs averaged for the last decade (per Before any can just shut it down wiper combo and a boom operator 14th Weather Squadron statistics) flight below cer- and call it a day. suspended some 50 feet in the air. Like a certain beloved per- all suggest he’s right. tain wind and Here, the AWACS The boom sports a set of trig- centage of Americans who buy The 962d AACS bears a key weather thresholds, may not have that op- gers shooting air, de-icing and their Thanksgiving turkeys three burden in the Alaskan NORAD maintenance crews tion – because with this anti-icing fluids along the plane’s hours before dinner is supposed to alert mission. have to both de-ice the kind of mission, even in this 152-foot length. begin, the pilots and maintenance The E-3 Airborne Warning plane to remove ice and snow that kind of environment, that can’t Few in the squadron admit they crews of the 962d Airborne Air and Control System doesn’t quite have built up overnight, or in a few happen, Gonzalez added. thought saving the world could Control Squadron proved last “scramble” to meet stray Cessna blizzardy minutes since the plane Now the squadron’s work will come down to unit togetherness month that sometimes one’s got to Skywagons from Merrill Field or moved outside to run its engines. be turning the proven concept into and the sweet, juicy goodness of go to great lengths to thaw a bird Russian Bears from Moscow – Lest all that work be instantly a capability they can build upon $11-a-gallon de-icing fluid. in a hurry. such pedestrianly tactical jobs are undone, the plane must be cov- and teach the world. “Now, for higher headquarters The introduction of a new reserved for planes named after ered with an anti-icing agent in “We’re the experts,” Armand [Alaskan NORAD] missions in the de-icing fluid – and 18 months of patriotic birds of prey – but ac- the crucial few minutes between said. “We’re the northernmost E-3 future,” Eschmann added, no mat- what 962d superintendent Chief cording to NORAD factsheets, it is de-icing and take-off, said Air base, and this is how we prove we ter how foul the weather gets, “we Master Sgt. Dwayne Ward calls the critical in telling the afterburning Force Staff Sgt. Colby Lehman, can get the job done.” know we’ve done it and we know best operations-and-maintenance jets that do the scrambling what all a 703d Aircraft Maintenance “We’re setting the tone for it can be done.” relationship in the Air Force – might be out there. Squadron computer and electronic dealing with inclement weather, at The iceman cometh, and the allows the 3rd Wing’s pair of E-3 “We have a legacy aircraft,” warfare technician. home or deployed,” he noted and, AWACS will go anyway. Coast Guard conducts joint-effort navigation aid repair mission By Lt. j.g. Keith Arnold that the weather remain within parameters ous for the offload from SPAR’s buoy deck This kept the boat from being in danger of Coast Guard Cutter SPAR for a 24-foot boat. as originally planned. running aground and kept the shore party “The biggest challenge was the logistics Several tactics were considered for the safe from the falling metal. The Coast Guard Cutter SPAR set sail of moving gear from the cutter to the shore challenge, including floating the section with To lift the heavy sections on top of one January 26 in a joint effort with Aids to aid team within a short five-hour tidal win- a cherry fender and sending a request for he- another, a special winch was bolted atop Navigation Team Kodiak to rebuild the Shag dow,” noted Chief Warrant Officer Travis licopter air support from Air Station Kodiak. the highest section and used to lift the next Rocks day beacon, a fixed aid to navigation Laster, the deck force supervisor. “The small The crew settled on floating the first sec- section into place. in Whale Pass which was knocked over by boat had to be on station early each day to tion with a foam buoy and towing alongside “We had to maneuver [the bases] around strong winds, currents and debris. assess tidal shifts that did not match predic- the small boat. the uneven, 20-by-15-foot rock and hoist Petty Officer 1st Class Jeff Emery, a tion in this time-critical evolution.” The tow proved to be safe and success- them on top of each other with a small pul- boatswain’s mate, Petty Officer 3rd Class The first day proved challenging, but the ful but too time-consuming to repeat for the ley,” said Petty Officer 3rd Class Cody Mer- Robert Stocks, a damage controlman, and coxswain, Petty Officer 3rd Class Patrick remaining four sections. cado, an electrician’s mate aboard the SPAR Petty Officer 3rd Class Bryan Adams, an Joyce, learned the best place to put workers As the sun set and the tide rose, the shore who assisted with the build. “It wasn’t easy, electronics technician of ANT Kodiak sailed on the rocks by observing the pattern of tides party made it clear over a radio call to the but it has been one of the highlights of my with the SPAR to Whale Pass in northern and currents. cutter they were rapidly losing real estate and Coast Guard experience in Kodiak.” Kodiak to lead the rebuild. The SPAR crew “I watched the waves flow over the rocks ready to be shuttled back to the ship. The team made great progress on Mon- supplied the transportation and additional and found a good place to put the bow to The next day, the team agreed to place day and Tuesday and constructed the base manpower. offload the shore party,” said Joyce. “From rubber mats on the bow of the utility boat to and bottom three sections of the tower. Shag Rocks day beacon is an essen- there I just had to make sure we didn’t get carry the sections to the rock faster. Unfortunately, high winds and choppy seas tial navigational aid for vessels transiting pushed onto the rocks by the waves.” Deck force personnel manually lowered Wednesday forced the mission’s cancel- through Whale Pass, which often is subject After landing two groups of personnel on the metal sections with lines onto the bow of lation, leaving several sections yet to be to currents in excess of 5 mph. the rock, the boat crew proceeded two miles boat, where they were strapped for transport installed. Because the beacon’s base submerges back to the SPAR to load the 125-pound base This tactic proved to be much quicker The team will resume progress when the during high tides, it was necessary for the onto the small boat. than the float-and-tow approach taken the tides are favorable again. planned rebuild to coincide with tides low The difficulty of handling the weight of previous day. The difficult task of maintaining the enough to expose the reef long enough to the base was compounded by perpendicular Once close to the rocks, lines were given 1,382 aids to navigation throughout Alaska actually conduct the work. It was also critical seas on the small boat, proving too danger- to the shore party to drag the bases ashore. is never done. A-4 News February 13, 2015 Blood and ink: JBER pararescueman finds solace from PTSD By Airman 1st Class Kyle Johnson ida yoga instructor who provides a appears in a time of need and dis- JBER Public Affairs mind-body approach to alleviating appears, only leaving his smile.” PTSD through therapeutic yoga. Many of the men in the 212th The aftermath of war is ugly. Okerlin began sending mate- RQS wear the tattoo as a somber Buildings are ravaged, fields are rials and advice to Sparks. The mark of pride, a sobering reminder razed, and people die. Structures pararescueman said he found her of the gravity of their job. Like the are rebuilt and fields and forests program incredibly healing, and effects of war, the mark may fade are restored, but the survivors are still uses the relaxation techniques. – but never be erased. marked indelibly. Air Force Master Sgt. Rog- Art Literature er Sparks sat on his couch, his Cleared for duty and having “I really enjoy reading litera- two sons leaning against him as finished the bulk of the clinical ture; it’s been a very cathartic thing they watched “Forrest Gump” treatment, Sparks continued to for me to read old war literature together. pursue a healthier mentality – and and realize all these feelings I When the firefight scene in found it in an unexpected place. have are just a human experience,” Vietnam flickered on, Sparks’ On the forward operating base, Sparks explained. “It’s just a hu- subconscious took over. just minutes after the life-changing man reaction to these things we “I was suddenly overwhelmed 2010 battle which earned him a are exposed to. with grief,” he said. “I went out Silver Star, Sparks said three men “Nobody is special because into the garage to get a hold of approached him. they’ve experienced this; we’re myself. That’s when I knew I had One was a cameraman, another just human beings trying to react a problem.” a filmmaker, and the third was to the things we’ve been forced to According to the National Cen- Scott Campbell, a well-known deal with.” ter for Post-traumatic Stress Disor- tattoo artist from New York City. Sparks explained he is particu- der, between 11 and 20 percent of They were interested in making larly interested in the Hagakure, military members who have been a documentary showing the effects a compilation of discussions on a part of Operation Iraqi Freedom tattooing can have on combat- maintaining a military mindset in or Operation Enduring Freedom The Cheshire Cat smiles around Air Force Master Sgt. Roger Sparks’ exposed service members. peacetime, written for samurai in have experienced, or continue to tattoo machine. The cat has been adopted as a mascot by the para- Sparks, exhausted and shaken the 18th century. experience, some form of PTSD. rescuemen of the 212th Rescue Squadron. (U.S. Air Force photo/ from the most intense firefight of “A big problem with PTSD is Sparks, a pararescueman as- Airman 1st Class Kyle Johnson) his life, nearly dismissed them. you feel isolated,” Sparks said. signed to the Alaska Air National Campbell looked at him and “You don’t think people will under- Guard’s 212th Rescue Squadron, for so long, we’ve just normalized a complete career out of warfare,” recognized what Sparks had just stand how you feel because of the became aware he had PTSD after it,” Sparks said. “I come back Sparks said. “We’ve given our been through. things you’ve experienced. a particularly intense combat sce- from combat where a guy died in entire adult life to combat. These “Let’s leave, this is wrong,” “It’s a very healing experience nario wherein he earned a Silver my arms just days ago, gripping are the kind of men I rub shoulders Sparks recalled Campbell saying. to know there were people feeling Star for valor. at me, clawing at me and bleeding with.” That’s when Sparks, looking to the same things we experience all over me, to sit next to a lady kill time, agreed to their proposal. now, in the 18th century.” The cost who’s ticked off because I’m on Clinical assistance “They stayed with us for three Writing free-verse poetry also “I really think the cost of com- her armrest.” “These service members have days, tattooing us,” Sparks said. provides an outlet for the emotional bat is grief,” Sparks said. “Grief In the past, there was an ex- survived a battle with one of the “That distracted us, because we struggles he experiences. is cumulative; the more we are tended boat voyage between home greatest enemies we face,” said knew we were about to go right “It doesn’t matter how many exposed to mortal situations, the and war, but now combat is only a Air Force Capt. Chad Killpack, a back (into the fight).” pushups you can do,” Sparks said. more it builds up. short plane ride away. clinical psychologist with the 673d Sparks described the experi- “When it comes to combat grief; “Some guys can go their whole Sparks said this makes it diffi- Medical Operations Squadron. ence as profoundly healing. you can be this physical specimen, career without meeting their cult for service members to mental- Killpack said the variety of Since then, he has continued but if you aren’t equipped to handle threshold,” he said. “Some guys ly separate the carnage of combat evidence-based programs available tattooing as a way of expressing things emotionally, that’s where can do one deployment and get a from the happiness of home. at the mental health clinic can, with himself in ways he otherwise you will eventually break.” whole bellyful. He believes in World War II, early intervention, have very posi- would not be able. Much has been written about “I’ve knowingly killed people the journey helped service mem- tive results in battling PTSD. “I really think PTSD is the lack dealing with the stressors of war; face-to-face,” said the former bers separate combat from normal Sparks used one such approach, of desire to, or inability to express finding the right way is an intensely Force Reconnaissance Marine. life in their minds, but now it has called cognitive behavioral thera- your grief to others.” Sparks said. personal process, Sparks and his “I’ve had buddies who were with become a part of “normal” life. py, for more than a year and was “With tattoos, it’s like a hidden compatriots said. me killed, and haven’t had trouble If you never truly leave home, later sent to Wright-Patterson Air language. I can express that grief “We’re exposed to so many with emotional trauma before. then you can never really come Force Base, Ohio, where he was in a very tangible way.” different stressful situations that “As you grow older, you home, he said. cleared to return to operational Sparks designed a Cheshire you develop your own way of deal- change. Your sense of mortality “I think there’s a cost to that, duty after consideration of his Cat tattoo that he and his fellow ing with it,” said Theodore “Ted” changes.” and each one of these guys feels extensive personal efforts toward pararescuemen have adopted as a Sierocinski, also a pararescueman The feeling of youthful invin- it,” Sparks said. recovery. kind of mascot. assigned to the 212th RQS. cibility fades, he said; resolve and “With as long as we’ve been During this time, Sparks was “The Cheshire Cat is elusive, The marks of battle may or may beliefs change. in Iraq and Afghanistan, there are also encouraged to get in touch appearing and disappearing at not fade with time, but the smile of “We’ve been doing [combat] young infantrymen who have made with Annie Okerlin, a Tampa, Flor- will,” Sparks said. “He always the Cheshire Cat remains. Briefs & Announcements February 13, 2015 ARCTIC WARRIOR A-5

Elmendorf pool closure the tax centers are forwarded Utilities upgrades design, printing and distribution of ments are accepted Wednesdays 10 The swimming pool at the electronically to the IRS, and by As part of Doyon Utilities’ con- business cards, letterhead, invita- a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Elmendorf Fitness Center will selecting direct deposit, taxpayers tinuing effort to improve the utility tions and programs. For information, call 753-6134. be closed during February for can receive their refunds in as little infrastructure, the organization is Document Services’ Equip- maintenance. as one week. engaged in a multi-year project ment Management Solutions Pro- Richardson Thrift Shop The JBER-Richardson Tax to upgrade the JBER-Richardson gram provides networked multi- The JBER-Richardson Thrift JAG law school programs Center is located on the third floor electrical system to improve ef- functional devices that print, scan, Shop, located in building 724, The Air Force Judge Advocate of Building 600 and will be open ficiency, reduce interruptions, and copy and fax. Production facilities Quartermaster Drive, is open General Corps is accepting ap- Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday and improve personnel safety. offer scanning and conversion ser- Monday through Thursday from 10 plications for the Funded Legal Friday from 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. and Doyon Utilities regrets any vices for all types of documents. a.m. to 2 p.m., and first and third Education Program and Excess Thursday from 1 to 8 p.m. inconvenience outages may cause, Document Services also offers Saturdays from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Leave Program until March 1. The JBER-Elmendorf Tax Cen- and is working to avoid unneces- Document Automation and Con- Consignments are accepted The FLEP is a paid legal stud- ter is located on the first floor of sary service interruptions. Work is tent Services, a service for building Tuesdays and Thursdays. ies program for active duty Air the People Center, Building 8517 expected to continue through 2016. digital libraries of content with For more information, call the Force commissioned officers and and will be open Monday, Tuesday, To minimize impacts, Doyon online access. Thrift Shop at 384-7000. is an assignment action with par- Thursday and Friday from 8 a.m. is working with installation of- Hours of operation are 7 a.m. to ticipants receiving full pay, allow- to 3 p.m. and Wednesday 8 a.m. to ficials to schedule work that could 3:30 p.m. Monday through Friday. Priority placement ances and tuition. FLEP applicants noon. Walk-in service is available potentially result in an outage for For more information visit The Priority Placement Pro- must have between two and six but customers having an appoint- completion during off-peak peri- www.documentservices.dla.mil, gram and Executive Order 13473 years of active duty service (en- ment take precedence. ods. If another outage does occur, visit the office at 984 Warehouse provide non-competitive appoint- listed or commissioned). Taxpayers will need proof utilities electrical crews will act Street, or call 384-2901. ment for spouses of active duty ser- The ELP is an unpaid legal of identity (military ID); social quickly to restore service. vice members, including full-time studies program for Air Force security cards and birth dates for When work is completed, the U-Fix-It Store National Guard and Reservists, officers, and participants do not all dependents; last year’s federal installation will see an improve- The JBER U-Fix-it Stores are who are relocating to accompany receive pay and allowances, but re- income tax return; wage and earn- ment in overall system reliability. open to all Aurora Military Hous- their service member during a per- main on active duty for retirement ing statements from W-2s, W-2Gs, ing tenants. manent change of station. eligibility and benefits purposes. and 1099-Rs; interest and dividend Rental Partnership Assorted items for maintaining The program allows spouses to ELP applicants must have be- statements; bank routing and ac- Program your home may be issued from the register for Department of Defense tween two and ten years active duty count numbers for direct deposit; The Rental Partnership Pro- U-Fix-It Store. The items available positions and be considered for service.For more information and amounts paid to day care providers; gram provides active-duty military are subject to change and limits and jobs offered internally. Spouses application materials, visit www. and day care providers’ tax identi- personnel with affordable off-base some may have a cost. are matched with positions based airforce.com/jag, contact Capt. fication numbers. housing. There are also American flag on qualifications and preferences. David Schiavone at the Joint Base Appointments can be made by The Rental Partnership Pro- kits and fire extinguishers avail- The spouse remains eligible for a Elmendorf-Richardson 673d ABW calling the JBER-R tax center at gram consists of two options. able. U-Fix-It work includes all maximum of two years from the Legal Office at 552-3048, or con- 384-1040 or JBER-E tax center at The first option, RPP Plus, home maintenance activities. date of the PCS orders and are in tact Capt. Megan Mallone at (800) 552-5839. includes utilities and sometimes Its purpose is to allow the occu- the program for one year. JAG-USAF. Customers can also make an cable costs providing an easier pant to make minor improvements Military spouses who have appointment with a unit tax advi- budget with a set rental payment and repairs to their home and cut never filled a federal position can Exchange rewards grades sor, who may be able to complete year round. down on the number of service or- now register for PPP. Students in first through 12th tax returns at the workplace and The other option, RPP Below ders. There are two stores on base. Military spouses can register grades can bring report cards forward it to the tax center. Market, saves the member four to The JBER-Elmendorf location at the Civilian Personnel Office at to the Exchange to receive a five percent off the rental fee that is 6350 Arctic Warrior Drive and is JBER-Elmendorf or the personnel coupon booklet of free offers Immunization clinic move other tenants pay however utilities open 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m., Tuesday office at JBER-Richardson. and discounts. Students can also The JBER hospital’s Allergy are paid for by the tenant. Both op- through Friday, closed from 1 to For information, contact Bren- enter the You Made the Grade and Immunization Clinic has tions are available with no deposits 1:30 p.m. for lunch, and Saturday, da Yaw at 552-9203. sweepstakes to win $500 to $2000 moved to a new location. or fees with the exclusion of pet 9 a.m. to noon and 1 to 4 p.m. gift cards. The clinic is now next to the fees as it may apply. (closed for lunch noon to 1 p.m.). Furnishing Management For information, call 552-4222. emergency room on the Moose An allotment must be executed The JBER-Richardson loca- The Furnishings Management side of the hospital. The clinic through a Housing Management tion is at 338 Hoonah Ave., open Office offers 90-day loaner furni- JBER tax centers open is open Monday through Friday Office under either option of the from 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday ture. Appliances may be issued for Active duty mem- from 7:30 to 11:30 RPP for the rental payments. through Friday, and closed from 1 the duration of the service mem- bers, reservists, retir- a.m. and 12:45 until Visit the JBER-Elmendorf to 1:30 p.m. for lunch. ber’s tour. FMO delivers as far as ees, and their family 4:15 p.m. HMO, Bldg. 6346, or call 552- A window blind cleaning ma- Peters Creek or Rabbit Creek; ser- members can receive For more 4328. Or visit the JBER-Richard- chine is currently located at the vice members must make special free tax return assis- information, call son HMO in Bldg. 600, Room 104 JBER-Elmendorf location. arrangements beyond these areas. tance and preparation the clinic at 580- or call 384-3088. A “reservation required to use” When requesting furniture, ser- at JBER’s tax centers. 2001 or 580-2002. policy is in place with the priority vice members must provide a copy Volunteers are DLA Document Services going to military members PCS- of their reporting orders. trained to prepare 1040 Provider Drive Defense Logistics Agency ing. For more information, call For JBER-Elmendorf, visit the EZ and 1040 tax re- closure Document Services duplicates and 375-5540. Capital Asset Management Office turns, and can provide advice on Civil Engineers are repaving prints documents. at Building 6436, Monday through military specific tax issues, such Provider Drive between the Ex- Document Services documents JBER Bargain Shop Friday, 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., or call as combat zone tax benefits and the change and JBER Hospital through including black and white, color, The JBER-Elmendorf Bargain 552-2740. effect of the Earned Income Credit. Aug. 15. Local housing will have large format, photographic prints, Shop, located in building 8515 For JBER-Richardson, visit Volunteers are also trained on how one-lane access to Wilkins Ave. engineering drawings, sensitive Saville off of 20th Street, is open the Housing Management Office to deal with the Alaska Permanent The detour uses Westover materials, technical manuals and Tuesday and Wednesday 10 a.m. to at Building 600, Monday through Fund Dividend. Avenue, Grady Highway and training materials. 2 p.m. and the first Saturday of the Friday, 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., or call All tax returns done through Zeamer Avenue. The shop is able to handle the month 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Consign- 384-2576. COMMUNITY February 13, 2015 ARCTIC WARRIOR Volume 6, No. 6 Overcoming adversity, one day at a time By Air Force Staff Sgt. “I had never seen a dead body Sheila deVera before and I watched him die in JBER Public Affairs my arms,” Brock said. “His eyes glazed over as if his soul had left At the age of 18, the Lake his body, and I felt him take his Tahoe, California native wanted to last breath. become a police officer, but did not “I was covered in blood.” want to wait three years to carry a While there Brock and his team firearm legally. were shot at and mortared, found He decided to join the Marine improvised explosive devices on Corps, but his grandfather con- Main Supply Route Tampa and had vinced him otherwise. grenades thrown at them. Instead, he went to an Army When he returned home, he recruiter, but did not meet the was a little different. He can still requirement to join the Special remember the eyes and smell of Forces. the local national man who died, He then approached an Air he said. Force recruiter, after watching a He and his wife were unhappy single video, he was sold. and requested a base of preference In September 1998, he left so she could be closer to family home for the first time. The 6-foot- and friends. 5-inch scrawny teenager who While stationed at Fairchild struggled to do 10 push-ups would Air Force Base, Washington, the support multiple deployments, earn operational tempo started to in- a Bronze Star Medal, become a sin- crease once again. The veteran was gle father, and supervise Airmen. home only four months of the year Military members have to and did two more tours in Iraq and balance their personal and profes- Turkmenistan. Tech. Sgt. Jerimiah Brock is one of many military members balancing his personal and professional sional lives. His fifth deployment to Iraq life. Due to high operations tempo, service members face repeated deployments, which often can result in increased stress and anxiety leading to strained relationships at home and abroad. (U.S. Air Force For Tech. Sgt. Jerimiah Brock, was when everything went bad. photo/Air Force Staff Sgt. Sheila deVera) 673d Security Forces Squadron re- They were rocketed frequently and source protection noncomisssioned IEDs were becoming the norm. “I was ready to kill myself, duty location that would not deploy and you do what you can to share officer-in-charge, it’s a constant In a one-week span, Brock and ready to pull the trigger,” Brock him as often. those 24 hours between the two. struggle, but one he manages. his team were shot at while on a said. “I was at my lowest low. As “The main struggle was service “If the Air Force takes time convoy mission, handled riots at for the suicidal thoughts, I had lost before self [and] understanding it away, I owe my family time, and Military and Deployment Camp Bucca, and dealt with per- everything I had built; everything I 100 percent was not service before do what I can to make up for it.” “Filling out my dream sheet at sonal issues at home. planned for the future was no lon- family,” Brock said. After another marital setback basic military training [Lackland Remembering vividly, Brock ger. I figured my kids were the only During his down time, the and divorce, Brock remarried again Air Force Base, Texas], I put in said he was just doing his usual thing I had left and didn’t want father of five is always trying to and his children finally found a every base there is in California, routine at Camp Bucca, a detention them growing up in a broken home. make up for the lost time. mother figure. hoping to get stationed close to facility near Basrah, when one of “I thought it would be better if “I would spoil my children with Hoping his children will un- home, but I was sent across the the detainees asked him I died in the combat zone and they gifts, take them to their favorite derstand his job, Brock invited his world to Okinawa, Japan and spent “‘Mr. Brock, Airman died would think I was killed in the war restaurant,” Brock said. “On days children to his office so they could four years there.” today, yes?” I said ‘I don’t know,’ and not think of it as a divorce, off, we were constantly camping, see first hand what he does and talk On September 1, 2001, while and the detainee said, ‘Yes, Airman he said. fishing, boating and riding ATVs to his Airmen. stationed at Kadena Air Base, Ja- died today.’” “My buddy walked in and as an escape from hardships – that “My kids pulled me through the pan, his first child was born. That was before the team re- saw what I was planning. He sat was our solitude.” toughest times of my life,” Brock Brock came home from Oman, ceived word they had lost two me down, talked to me about the Taking advantage of being said. “I have been in debt to them his second deployment, just in time of their members, Senior Airman positives – though few from my stationed in Germany, Brock and ever since.” for the birth of his son. Ten days Elizabeth Jacobson and Army Sgt. perspective. his children Cole and Dixie would One of his Airmen, Staff Sgt. later, 9/11 happened and he knew Steve Morin, when their convoy “Then he told me about the travel to numerous countries to see Madonna Henard, 673d SFS base he would once again deploy after was hit by an IED. serenity prayer and said from here the different cultures and scenery. defense operations controller, said getting a chance to see his family He said during his time in Iraq there was nowhere to go but up. I “We went to every kid-friendly her supervisor will remind them for a only a couple of weeks. things began a downward spiral. listened, I followed, and I lived my festival we could,” he said. “I was they work as a family, go home as Things became stressful for the Brock, suffering from post-trau- life,” Brock said. basically trying to get to know my a family. first-time parents as they were tak- matic stress disorder, thought the He filed for divorce after his kids again and they were trying to “We are his family and he is ing care of a premature baby and Iraqi people were rude, ungrateful deployment. get to know me.” ours,” Henard said. facing a pending third deployment and did not understand what they At his 10-year Air Force anni- Brock did not deploy again “It’s a constant tug-of-war,” to Spain. were doing. versary, while he was stationed at until 2013, when he went to Af- Brock said. “My troops [Airmen] When the war in Iraq kicked “I was called a baby killer, spit Fairchild, the father of five thought ghanistan. are also my family and I try to bal- off, Brock was on his way to his on while in uniform, and told we about getting out of the military. ance both.” fourth deployment. were just there for the oil,” Brock “As a single parent, I had to Balance “The military is just a chapter, “We were the first Air Force said. “There was a lot of anger send my children to my parents The balance between personal every struggle is a chapter; just convoy in the country,” Brock built up.” when I was away,” Brock said. and professional life comes with keep turning the pages,” Brock said. “It was a huge shock to me Back on the home front, the My children were bouncing around planning, organizing and leaving added. “You can only control what because it was my first time in a communication was bad. His wife everywhere with no solid founda- one or the other at the door on the you can control, and do your best war environment and a different invited her friends to live in his tion.” way out, Brock said. every day.” rule-of-engagement mindset.” house; his money was gone, leav- However, he decided to stay in “The logistics are always the His struggles remind him to It was at Tallil Air Base, Iraq ing bills unpaid; his house and car the interest of steady employment. hardest,” he said, “The important take it a day at a time and keep that Brock saw death up close. were being repossessed. His leadership offered him another items on either side get prioritized, moving forward.

Coast Guard Lt. Frank Wolfe, a pilot from Air Station Kodiak, answers questions posed by students of Academy Charter School in Palmer Jan. 29. A flight crew from Air Station Kodiak flew an MH-60 Jayhawk helicopter to the school to share their stories with children as part of an intensive program called “Fly ‘em High; Helicopters’ Role in Alaska.” (U.S. Coast Guard photo/Petty Officer 1st Class Shawn Eggert) Air Station Kodiak flight crew descends on school By Petty Officer 1st Class Shawn Eggert Role in Alaska” arranged by Sean Reilly, a helicopter land. kids about the kinds of things we do in the 17th CGD Public Affairs seventh-grade teacher at the school. It gave Lt. Frank Wolfe, a pilot at Air Station Coast Guard.” the students an up-close look at a variety of Kodiak, and his crew then guided the stu- The students were eager to learn about Whether they’re behind the controls of a helicopters, including the Jayhawk. dents through a quick hands-on tour of the the flight crew and their responsibilities and sophisticated aircraft or soaring through the “When I think of helicopters’ place in aircraft before heading into the warmth of the asked about everything from survival gear air and saving the day as a superhero, the Alaska, I think right away of the Coast classroom for a question-and-answer session to favorite missions. ability to fly is a common dream for children. Guard,” Reilly said. “The Coast Guard is like with Reilly’s students. A few of them even had questions about On Jan. 29, students at Academy Charter the guardian angel over Alaska. I’ve been a “The students seemed really open and in- how they might also someday serve as Coast School in Palmer had the opportunity to commercial fisherman as well as a teacher, terested in the stories we shared with them,” Guard flight crew members. speak with the real-life superheroes of Coast so I wanted my students to know the role of said Wolfe. “The Coast Guard doesn’t get to “It’s just been unbelievable that they Guard Air Station Kodiak when an MH-60 the Coast Guard here in Alaska.” do these sorts of visits as often as we used would do this for us,” Reilly said. “Shar- Jayhawk crew descended onto their soccer The flight crew’s visit began with an to, but it was a great opportunity for us to ing their stories and making it real lit a fire field for a visit. impressive entrance as the MH-60’s rotors come out for these students. under my students and maybe inspired them The visit was part of a special educational kicked up a flurry of snow and children lined It’s great to reach out to the communities to think about seeking a career in the Coast intensive called “Fly ‘em High: Helicopters’ the fences of the soccer field to watch the and especially to have a chance to educate Guard. They’re amazing.” MattersARCTIC WARRIOR of Faith February 13, 2015 B-2 What is church – a building, a community or a mindset? Commentary by Chaplain (Capt.) (branches on a vine in John 15:5, a evening. ‘Thank you so much for your About 30 percent said attend- Brian Musselman new temple in 1 Peter 2:5, a harvest “The pastor found the man at visit and especially for the fiery ing is very important, about 40 JBER Protestant Staff Chaplain in Matthew 13:1-3, a building in 1 home alone, sitting before a blaz- sermon,’ the man said. ‘I shall be percent were ambivalent, and 30 Corinthians 3:9, a field of crops in ing fire. Guessing the reason for his back in church next Sunday.’” percent said it is not important Not too long ago I sat down 1 Corinthians 3:6-9, God’s house pastor’s visit, the man welcomed The church is more than a at all. with a few of my closest friends in Hebrews 3:6, and the pillar and him, led him to a big chair near the building. It is about being in com- The ambivalent gave two main and asked two questions: Do we bulwark of the truth in 1 Timothy fireplace and waited. munity with others, sharing the reasons – 40 percent “find God as Christians have to go to church? 3:15). “The pastor made himself same core beliefs, relying on the elsewhere” and 35 percent find If so, why? As I look around Arctic Warrior comfortable but said nothing. In hands that build the walls and not church “not personally relevant.” This healthy discussion was chapel where I help lead services, the grave silence, he contemplated the walls themselves. The church I can understand this response; revealing. In fact, I felt challenged or Midnight Sun chapel where my the play of the flames around the is people. God is omnipresent and people to relearn why I value attending office is, I ask myself, ‘what is the burning logs. The author of the book of are imperfect. But the beauty of church and being a part of a com- church? It can’t just be a building, “After some minutes, the pastor Hebrews included the word “meet- the church is that it is made up of munity. can it?’ took the fire tongs, carefully picked ing” in 10:25. It is the word – you different people experiencing God My friends honestly shared Then it dawns on me – it be- up a brightly burning ember, and guessed it – assembly. It is not the in all walks of life. that sometimes they don’t feel comes a church when people are placed it to one side of the hearth ekklesia previously mentioned, I can’t imagine attending a like going. in it. all alone. Then he sat back in his but nonetheless means a grouping church where all the people were Another said “sometimes I go But chair, still si- of people. exactly like me. I love Brian Mus- because it is the only time during that just lent. The host In Deuteronomy, God says, selman because he is wired and a busy week that I can quiet my feels awk- What is the watched all “Gather the people to me, that I may knitted by God’s design, and God mind and focus my attention on ward, like “ this in quiet let them hear my words” (4:10). The makes no mistakes, but it would something other than myself.” asking if a tree church? It can’t fascination. Hebrew word used is qahal. drive me bonkers to be around so Another said going to church is makes a sound “As the In the Greek translation of the many Brian Musselmans. like “a parked car in a garage with in the woods if one lone em- Old Testament, the Septuagint, the The church is people. People no gas and a car that is needed to no one is around. just be a building, ber’s flame writers chose the word ekklesiazo. make each other better, like iron get from point A to point B, and it Hundreds diminished, Look familiar? Ekklesiazo means sharpens iron. I have room for needs gas to travel.” The church is of people are in can it? there was a to summon an assembly. improvement, and God makes this her gas to keep going – fuel for life. JBER’s chapels every week. ”momentary glow and then its fire The author of Hebrews chose happen through others. Collectively, they said perhaps What if there were no structures was no more. Soon it was cold and specific words to catapult our Perhaps some resist attending people attend church on Sundays – no brick, mortar or electricity to ‘dead as a doornail.’ minds toward assembling – like church because it may involve (or other days) because of the guilt give us a place to meet and wor- “Not a word had been spoken “let us,” “our hearts,” “cleanse us,” change that is, at first, uncomfort- they carry around the days or night ship, to have ceremonies, funerals, since the initial greeting. Just be- “our bodies,” “hope we profess,” able. I can’t – nor do I want to prior – the church is a cleanser for squadron parties and the like? fore the pastor was ready to leave, “let us consider” and “spur one – take away this experience from them. What would the church be he picked up the cold, dead ember another on” (10:22-25). anyone, because it is essential for The Greek word for church is then? and placed it back in the middle But I’m still left challenged by growth. ekklesia, and means ‘assembly.’ Recently I heard a story called of the fire. the author when he writes, “let us But the church – the people Often, we envision church as a “The Lonely Ember.” “Immediately it began to glow not forsake assembling together as – will make each other better structure of brick and mortar, and “A member of a certain church, once more with the light and is the habit of some.” while in community; worshipping to some extent, it is. who previously had been attending warmth of the burning coals around More than 1,000 American together, studying together, caring In fact the church is compared services regularly, stopped going. it. adults were polled by the Barna together, and doing life together. to structures, objects, and vegeta- “After a few weeks, the pastor “As the pastor prepared to Group and asked their thoughts on Do you have a community tion throughout the New Testament decided to visit him. It was a chilly leave, his host finally spoke. going to church. like this? CommunityFebruary 13, 2015 HappeningsARCTIC WARRIOR B-3

through Feb 28 sparkling cider. from 6 to 8 p.m. Discounts on Ongoing Elmendorf pool closure For information, call 753-7467. specialty refreshments, music and Scholarship opportunities The Elmendorf fitness center indoor games. Applications are being accepted Chapel pool is closed for maintenance Scotch Doubles tourney For information, call 384-7619. for the Richardson Spouses’ Club throughout the month and will re- Join us at the Polar Bowl for a 2014-2015 scholarship. Applicants services open March 1. During this period, Valentine’s Day Scotch Doubles Youth ice fishing must be military dependents, either Catholic Mass the Buckner fitness center pool will tournament beginning at 6:30 p.m. Hosted by the Kennecott Youth graduating high school seniors or remain open. This cash only tourney is a system Center from 12:30 to 4:30 p.m. currently enrolled college students Sunday For information, call 384-1302. of doubles play where two bowlers Bring your friends, dress warmly pursuing full-time undergraduate 8:30 a.m. – Arctic Warrior on each team play alternative shots and enjoy this unique experience. studies. Visit richardsonspouses- Chapel Friday throughout the game. For information, call 552-2266. club.com/scholarship to download 11:30 a.m. – Midnight Sun Cards for troops For information, call 753-7467. full eligibility requirements along Chapel The Child Development Cen- Design a phone cover with the application. Monday and Wednesday ters would like to show support Monday Make your very own phone Applications must be post- 11:40 a.m. – Arctic Warrior for deployed and overseas troops President’s Day at Hillberg cover during Sew-So-Sew at Two marked by Feb. 28. Chapel by sending them cards made by Looking for something to do on Rivers Youth Center from 4 to 6 Tuesday and Friday children. See staff members at your day off? The rest of the instal- p.m. JSC scholarships 11:30 a.m. – Midnight Sun your child’s CDC for further in- lation may be shut down for the For information, call 384-1508. The JBER Spouse’s Club will Chapel formation. holiday, but Hillberg will be open award merit scholarships to gradu- Thursday from noon to 8 p.m. Parents Night Out ating high school seniors to assist 12:00 p.m. – Hospital Chapel Papier-mâché hearts For information, call 552-4838. Parents, need a date night? Let them in their first year of educa- Make your own valentine the professional staff at the Juneau tion at an accredited college or Confession hearts out of papier mâché during Thursday Child Development Center care for university. Scholarships are open Confessions are available a fine arts and crafts session at the Mardi Gras your children from 6 to 10 p.m. to family members of all active anytime by appointment. Call the Two Rivers Youth Center from Head to the FirePit for a tra- For more information, call Cen- duty or retired military members 552-5762. 4 to 6 p.m. ditional Mardi Gras party from 6 tral registration at 384-7483. in the Anchorage Bowl. The ap- For information, call 384-1508. to 8 p.m. with music, refreshment plication packet and further details discounts and prizes. Winners of Feb. 21 are available on our website at Protestant Sunday Valentine’s dance a limbo contest and most unique Blood drive www.jberspousesclub.com under Services Bring your valentine and beads will each receive an FSS gift The Blood Bank of Alaska will the community tab. The deadline friends and get your groove on at card. There will also be a Mardi be accepting donations at the JBER for the receipt of the application Liturgical Service the Kennecott Youth Center from Gras-themed scavenger hunt for Exchange from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. in is Feb. 25. 9 a.m. – Heritage Chapel 6:30 to 9 p.m. which the winner will receive a their “LIFEmobile.” For information, email info@ Gospel Service For information, call 552-2266. Super Bowl champion jersey. For questions about donating, jberspousesclub.com. 9:30 a.m. – Midnight Sun For information, call 384-7619. call 222-5630. Chapel Saturday AER scholarships Community Service Ski lesson/tubing special Texas Hold’em tournament Iron Dog race start Army Emergency Relief is 10:30 a.m. – Heritage Chapel Head to Hillberg Ski Area The 907 Sports Bar and Grill The world’s longest snowma- taking applications for scholar- Collective Service for two-for-one Valentine’s Day hosts this tourney with sign ups at 5 chine race starts for the first time ships. Scholarships are available 11 a.m. – Arctic Warrior Chapel private “couples” beginner ski p.m., dealing begins at 6 p.m. in Anchorage and runs through for children, spouses and other Contemporary Service lessons or two-hour (adults only) Free for club members; top Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson. dependents of active, retired and 5 p.m. – Midnight Sun Chapel snow tubing sessions. three every week win FSS gift cards Festivities kick off at 9:30 a.m. on deceased Soldiers. Applications and For information, call 552-4838. and the top weekly winner secures a Fourth Ave. with a parade, kids’ instructions are available at aerhq. spot at the final table at the close of events and much more. org. Submisison deadline is May 1. Jewish Services Snow machine tour this nine-week tournament. Two viewing areas will be For information, call 384-7478. Head to Willow on a guided For information, call 384-7619. available on JBER: 37th Street and Erev Shabbat Service snow machine tour from 8 a.m. Talley Avenue, and Otter Lake. Eat and Play Weekdays (First Friday of each month) to 5 p.m. Feb. 20 For information, visit iron- What goes great with lunch? 5 p.m. – Heritage Chapel This trip is being offered at a Black History Month dograce.org. A free game of bowling. Present Call 384-0456 or 552-5762 special discounted rate as part of the Celebrate Black History Month your receipt at the front counter RECON program which offers with featured guest speaker Viet- Feb. 27 through March 8 totaling more than $5 from Ten Pins discounts on certain outdoor ad- nam veteran, retired Senior Master Fur Rendezvous or Topios (located inside the Polar Religious Education venture program eventsto active Sgt. Raymond Harris from 1:30 to Anchorage’s largest winter fes- Bowl) between 11 a.m. and 1 p.m., For religious education duty service members and/or 2:30 p.m. in the Talkeetna Theater. tival is back for its 80th year with all Mon., Thurs., or Fri. and receive schedules, please call the dependents. All JBER personnel are encour- the zany events and activities. Run one free game. Religious Operations Center at Sign up at JBER-Elmendorf aged to attend. with the reindeer, race ouhouses, For information, call 753-7467. 552-5762 or 384-1461. Outdoor Recreation Center. shop for furs or watch the sled dog Trips must meet minimum Raquetball tourney teams race downtown – or bundle Civil Air Patrol meetings Chapel. Bible studies are Tuesdays sign-up requirements and are Sign up deadline for both men’s up for carnival rides. The JBER squadron of the at 9:30 a.m. at the Arctic Warrior subject to change due to weather and women’s teams is Feb. 20 at Events, dates and times vary; Alaska Civil Air Patrol meets the Chapel, JBER-Richardson. conditions. the Buckner fitness center. There visit furrondy.net for information. first and third Tuesdays of the For more information, email For more information, call 552- will be an organizational meeting month at 6 p.m. in the JBER Aero [email protected] or call 2023 or 552-3812. March 2 at 1 p.m. The competition Feb. 23 Through 27 Club Hangar. 384-1461. runs March 2 through May 1. TAP seminar For information and access, Valentine’s date night For further information, call The Transition Assistance Pro- 250-9548. Wired Cafe for Airmen Make your Valentine’s Day 384-1312. gram Goals, Plans and Success The Wired Cafe at has wireless special by heading to the Polar seminar takes place Mon. through Protestant Women of the internet access and programs for Bowl between 6 p.m. and 1 a.m. Winter BBQ Bash Fri. from 7:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. at Chapel meetings Airmen in the dorms. There are free for two hours of neon bowling, Come join us on the patio out- the Air Force Transition Center. Women are invited to meet meals Fridays at 6 p.m. shoe rental, a balloon bouquet, and side the 907 Sports Bar and Grill Call 552-6619 to register. with the Protestant Women of the For information, call 552-4422. 673d FORCE MWR eVents & activities Elmendorf Fitness Center Pool, Bldg. 9510 MARKETING TIDBITS SUPPORT will be closed for maintenance through February 28. Call 552-5353 for more information. MWR + Military SQUADRON To accommodate your needs, Personnel/Manpower please use Buckner Fitness Center Pool, 384-1302 = FSS The 673d Force Support Squadron provides Joint Base Elmendorf- Richardson personnel and family PRESENTS members with morale, welfare, and recreation services, in addition to force development and military personnel and manpower support. The squadron's mission is to enhance readiness by providing combat support and services for the JBER community. The motto “Mission First ~ People Always” perfectly summarizes the squadron’s focus. Vast and diverse, the 673d Force Support Squadron contains five flights: Warfighter & Family Services, Sustainment Services, Community Services, Manpower & Personnel Services, and Force Development Services. In addition to the Command Staff, led by Lt Col Christopher Busque directing operations of the 673d Force Support Squadron, the squadron also oversees NAF Resource Managaement, NAF Human Resourse Office, and Civlian Personnel. One key component of 673 FSS is to bring recreational opportunities to the community. These opportunites abound in Alaska, and JBER is no exception. Buckner and Elmendorf Fitness Centers, Moose Run Golf Course, Polar Bowl Bowling Center, Hillberg Ski Area, Arctic MardiMardi GrasGras Oasis Community Center, Information Tickets & Travel, Outdoor Advernture FEBRUARY 19 | 6 - 8 p.m. Program, Outdoor Recreation, Skeet & Trap Range, Otter Lake, Youth Sports, Come join us at the FirePit for a traditional Mardi Gras style Black Spruce and FAMCamp RV Parks, Party! Music will be provided by a DJ, discounted specialty drinks Aero Club, Auto Skills, and Polar Express Arts & Crafts are all an intregral part of will be o ered, & there will be three prizes given away! the squadron. For information on these (Limbo contest winner will receive $25 FSS Gift Card, Scavenger Hunt Winner will receive a facilities please visit: SuperBowl Champion Football Jersey, & Most Unique Bead winner will receive $25 FSS Gift Card) www.elemendorf-richardson.com Menu: Next time you hear someone ask... t BBQ Ribs - $10 t Jamaican Jerked Chicken - $10 t Mu ulettas - $9 “What’s FSS?” With your choice of cole slaw or red beans & rice. You can answer them... FSS = Call for more information 384.7619 MWR + Military Personnel/Manpower! Bldg. 9387 t 384.7619 OUTDOOR ADVENTURE PROGRAM Dog Sled Rides Bldg. 7301, 552.2023/3812 SNOWMACHINE GUIDED TOURS Hillberg Feb. WILLOW: February 14, 8 a.m. - 5 p.m. $50 Lake 21 & 22 (These two trips are RECON speci c trips and are only open to active duty Noon - 5 p.m. service member and/or family members. These trips are being oered at a special discounted rate as part of the RECON on program.)

PETERSVILLE: February 21, 7 a.m. - 5 p.m. $185 $10 for Adults $5 for 13 years & under Get tickets inside Hillberg Lodge Stop by and see us! Hillberg Ski Area Bldg. 23400 | 552-4838 http://www.elmendorf-richardson.com www.facebook.com/JBER673FSS B-4 Community February 13, 2015 Losing weight and feeling great Squadron commander and I’m sending people fail,” Bliss said. “You need to have a out of the Air Force for fitness rea- meal plan and a workout plan. You commander sons, and I’m barely holding on. I’m don’t want to walk into the gym and motivates, 46. I decided to get a handle on it to think, ‘what do I feel like doing?’ get where I truly want to be.’” That doesn’t work because you encourages and The determined major started never really feel like doing cardio inspires through from ground zero: seeking out the or things you may be weak at. You advice and support of others who have to make it a personal priority. ” fitness journey had achieved success. He began re- While Bliss emphasized the searching fitness and nutrition, and importance of having a plan and By Air Force Staff Sgt. Wes Wright started a routine that incorporated strictly adhering to it, he said he also JBER Public Affairs cardio and weight lifting. understands that sometimes life just “I had to educate myself,” Bliss gets in the way. “I need to get my butt in the said. “I was getting stronger in my “As a husband, father and com- gym.” upper and lower body. I love do- mander, there are important priori- It’s a phrase many people have ing squats, but I can’t do them due ties that get in the way,” Bliss said. probably uttered at least once in to a bad lower back. So I started “Having a plan in place will allow their life. For some, the battle of the exploring fitness exercises I could you to adjust and be flexible. I think bulge is a constant struggle. Fitness substitute in, which led me to PiYo. where people get discouraged is Air Force Maj. Michael Bliss, 703d Aircraft Maintenance Squadron is a multibillion dollar industry. The I started in November and did it they think, ‘Oh, I can never have commander, leads a PiYo class at the JBER-Elmendorf fitness center Internet is awash with all the latest about eight times leading up to my sweet treats or a cheat meal.’ That’s Feb. 4. Bliss is using his personal fitness success story and knowl- and greatest trends, fads and secrets physical fitness test in December not true. You can make progress in edge to help motivate and inspire others. (U.S. Air Force photos/ – for a price. and got a 95.” your goals and still have occasional Staff Sgt. Wes Wright) However, according to one Air- PiYo blends Pilates and yoga, treats and splurges. We’re human. man on JBER, the secret doesn’t lie strengthening the core muscles We need things like that to stay probably put three perfect nutrition tant noncommissioned officer in in wraps, creams or pills. All that is and enhancing the mind-to-muscle sane. days back-to-back-to-back. Things charge, attended one of his recent needed is discipline and hard work. connection. “I sit down with a calendar and come up. You think, ‘Man, I haven’t classes at the JBER-Elmendorf On Jan. 5, 2014, Air Force Maj. According to Bliss, PiYo has plan everything out: my meals, eaten in four hours and I left my fitness center. Michael Bliss, 703d Aircraft Main- been just one part in the big picture workouts and work schedule. Val- food at home.’ Well, it may not be “This is my first class; I really tenance Squadron commander, of his fitness journey so far. entine’s Day is coming up. Am I the best solution, but perhaps I’ll enjoyed it,” Robinson said. “It weighed 257 pounds with a low “You have to change your going to be that guy who doesn’t go get a fast food grilled chicken works every muscle group and muscle-to-fat ratio. Standing at 5 mindset. Look at it as changing take his wife out for a nice meal? Of sandwich with no mayonnaise. You isn’t overwhelming. It was chal- feet, 10 inches, it was aesthetically your lifestyle, not just following a course not, but I’m going to plan it make the best decision you can.” lenging but not impossible. He was not a good look, and more impor- diet or workout routine. You have to into my diet.” After finding his own success, very motivating and explained the tantly, not healthy. Today, he weighs understand it and embrace it; and it Bliss said people need to make Bliss decided he wanted to give exercises in an easy way. 213 pounds, has abdominal muscles doesn’t have to be freakish.” the best decision possible when back. He created a Facebook fitness “I had a baby and its hard get- beginning to show, runs triathlons, Bliss said planning is key to forced between a rock and a hard page called ‘Bliss Fit Life’ where he ting back into it. His success is and can bench press 315 pounds. realizing fitness goals. place with their nutritional needs. posts tips and shares motivational inspiring. If he did it and he’s will- “I’ve always been a bigger “Standing in front of the fridge “It’s about consistency and in- stories, encouraging people to not ing to take the time to lead others, dude,” Bliss said. “But I had an when you’re hungry – if you don’t cremental change,” Bliss said. “I’ve give up. it makes you want to at least give epiphany. I thought, ‘Man, I’m a have a plan in place, you’re going to been doing this for a while and I’ve “My main motivation is to help it a shot.” other people,” Bliss said. “I want to After the class, Bliss shared his show people I’m a real dude with a motto for success: Plan your work real job and a real family. If I can do and work your plan. this, you can do this. I try to teach “If you plan, you’re going to be people you have to find your own able to overcome missteps because motivation. If you’re doing it for you’ve thought about it. When you somebody else, you’ll be able to put thought into your life and into excuse yourself out and rationalize your plan, you will be successful anything. in all things.” “Whether it’s wanting to be While Bliss publicly insists healthier so you can be more ac- there is no one secret to success, tive with your kids, or if you’re a his real secret came out in the end. supervisor and want to be a good “The closest thing I have to a example, whatever it is, it has to secret is this,” he said in hushed come from within.” tones and with a wry smile. “At Bliss recently became certified the Shoppette, they have these dark to teach PiYo classes and does his chocolates with chili in them. best to help people make progress “Every night, I have two Air Force Maj. Michael Bliss leads a PiYo class at the JBER-Elmendorf fitness center Feb. 4. Accord- in their goals. squares of it, no matter what. That ing to Bliss, PiYo has been just one part in the big picture of his fitness journey so far. “You have to Tech. Sgt. Brenda Robinson, helps me to be disciplined through change your mindset. Look at it as changing your lifestyle, not just following a diet or workout routine. 517th Airlift Squadron Aviation my day, because I know I get a You have to understand it and embrace it; and it doesn’t have to be freakish.” Resource Management assis- reward at night.” February 13, 2015 Sports B-5 Buckner indoor triathlon

ABOVE: Bill Kane, a former Air Force Captain and park ranger at Kenai Fjords National Park, competes in the final leg of the Indoor Sprint Triathlon at Buckner Physical Fitness Center Monday. The triathlon is composed of three different segments; biking, running and swimming, in 15-minute increments. UPPER RIGHT: Alex Flores, a Buckner Physical Fitness Center lifeguard, competes in the Indoor Sprint Triathlon. Flores placed third in the final competition, but stayed behind to coach a friend and fellow participant in the second heat. Flores is a common face in the fitness center and JBER community. LOWER RIGHT: Swimmers prepare for the final leg of the Indoor Sprint Triathlon at Buckner Physical Fitness center on Monday. Equipment like swim goggles, help ensure a successful and safe competition. BELOW: Spc. Bruce Bell, a wheeled vehicle mechanic with the 725th Brigade Support Battalion (Air- borne)competes in the Indoor Sprint Triathlon at Buckner Physical Fitness Center Monday. Bell hails from Hartsville, S.C. (U.S. Air Force photos/Airman 1st Class Kyle Johnson) B-6 Community February 13, 2015 Flat-screen warriors

LEFT: Team Thunderdome, won the ‘Call of Duty: Black Ops 2’ tournament held at the Warrior Zone on Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson Saturday. The competing teams were part of Better Opportunities for Single Service Members. CENTER LEFT: Pvt. Calvin Coulter, left, and Spc. Matthew Norczyk participate in a ‘Call of Duty: Black Ops 2’ tournament at the Warrior Zone on JBER Feb. 7. The tournament was a part of the Better Op- portunities for Single Service Members program. Coulter and Norczyk are a cavalry scouts for the 1st Squadron (Airborne), 40th Cavalry Regiment, 4th Infantry Brigade Combat Team (Airborne), 25th Infantry Division. Coulter is a native of Oklahoma City. Norczyk is a native of Starke, Florida. TOP LEFT: Team Thunderdome won the ‘Call of Duty: Black Ops 2’ tournament held at the Warrior Zone on Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson, Saturday. The competing teams were part of Better Opportuni- ties for Single Service Members. ABOVE RIGHT: Pfc. Calvin Coulter chooses his weapons and other options during a ‘Call of Duty: Black Ops 2’ tournament at the Warrior Zone on JBER Feb. 7. The tournament was a part of the Bet- ter Opportunities for Single Service Members program. Coulter, a cavalry scout for the 1st Squadron (Airborne), 40th Cavalry Regiment is a native of Oklahoma City. ABOVE: Soldiers participate in a ‘Call of Duty: Black Ops 2’ tournament at the Warrior Zone on JBER Feb 7. The tournament was a part of the Better Opportunities for Single Service Members program. Forty members of the BOSS program, divided into nine teams, competed in the event. Thunderdome won first place with 75 points; Captain Green took second place with 55 points, and ‘We Don’t Get Tired’ nabbed third place. (U.S. Air Force photos/Tech. Sgt. Robert Barnett)